Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do

If you lost the ignition key, it's important to check all the places you may have seen it. Retrace your footsteps and try to recall what you were doing when you last saw the keys.

Replacing a traditional car key is simple and affordable. Locksmiths can create a new car key without the original. However, a more technologically advanced key like the switchblade, transponder or smart key will require assistance from a roadside to replace.

1. Check the ignition

There are several factors that could cause your car keys not to turn the ignition. It could be due to worn. As time passes the pins in the cylinder will wear out and stop it from turning. This is the main reason that people are unable to start their car.

A dead battery inside the key fob could require replacement. If this is the case, it is an easy fix that can be done at home. Purchase new batteries for the key fob and verify that it is compatible with your car.

In the end, it could be that your ignition switch is defective. The ignition switch is an electronic component that provides power to specific components when you insert your car key into the ignition and key replacement cylinder. It is important to know that the ignition switch will not actually start the vehicle, it only allows the engine to be started.

When you turn the ignition key, it pushes a set of tumblers into an exact arrangement and then closes an ignition circuit. When you turn the key on your ignition, it forces tumblers in a precise order and shuts off an ignition circuit that will then provide power to the starter motor in order to start the engine.

Modern cars have a new system to protect against theft of cars using an electronic chip embedded in the head of the key. Keys with transponders are commonly referred to as transponder keys. When you insert a key with transponder in your ignition, it transmits an identification code to your car's antenna. This unique code can let the engine's computer start the starter motor.

If your car has transponder technology, you will not be in a position to start it once the battery on the key fob goes out. This is why it is always recommended to keep a spare key with you, just in case! However, many auto manufacturers have a failsafe feature to get your car started if the key with the chip is lost.

2. Check the Locks

Car keys are typically lost when you're in a hurry or performing something that requires your attention. They can easily get misplaced when you're not paying attention, which leads to an anxiety-inducing situation when it happens. There are steps you can take to get from frustration and panic back to your keys.

You might think traditional keys are obsolete however, they are accessible from your local auto dealer or locksmith. These are standard keys that lock your ignition and door and then start the engine when you turn it. You can also make use of these keys to open the trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are cheapest and most common to replace. The locksmith in your neighborhood can cut you a key while you sit.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popular. They are plastic casings that include buttons for locking and unlocking the car (and, in some cases, activate the alarm or open your trunk). Some of these devices have keys that are actually made. The local locksmith in your area can reprogram fobs but only after adding an additional transponder and transmitter chip to the key.

Many of us have been guilty of forgetting our keys while stressed or distracted. It's probably not important if you left keys in your seat when you took an Uber, cab or bus, or a ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. However, if you lose them at home or at work, you may be putting your belongings and your family members in danger.

If you have a spare key, test it first. It might be hidden somewhere in your home or in your bag, so it's worth doing a quick search. Also, think about returning to the place you left your vehicle to your place of work or residence.

Another alternative is to run your VIN number through the key database. If your locks have already been changed or rekeyed then running your VIN through the key database won't produce keys that work. Guardian Safe & Lock recommends that new automotive locks be re-keyed to match the original key cut whenever possible.

3. Check the Door Locks

If you're experiencing difficulty getting your car to start, it may be an issue with the door locks. The door locks might be locked or unlocked with the key inside. If you've lost your car keys, it is recommended to have a spare backup key that came with the vehicle. Keys can be found in the key fob, or as backup keys that you can use to open your vehicle. You can also try an instrument such as a Slim Jim to gain entry into your car without causing damage to the door locks or the ignition switch.

The battery might be dead if the key fob works but isn't able to turn on the ignition. It is necessary to replace the batteries in the keyfob, and then reprogram the device if required.

Over time, the edges of car keys wear out and break off in the lock or cylinder of ignition. This could make it difficult to start the ignition since the wafers that make up the key aren't engaged properly.

The car key can sometimes turn on or off while in the ignition. This is because the internal components are wearing down, causing intermittent problems with the ignition switch.

It's not common for people to pick the wrong key off their table or rings when trying to get their car started. It can be a problem because certain keys are similar and you could accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.

This is a simple fix that you can make at home: simply wipe down the key with a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol. This will remove any foreign substances from the surface of your key that may prevent it from turning the ignition or unlocking doors.

If you're having difficulty, you should write down your VIN (vehicle identification number) before contacting locksmith. This will give you a better chance of finding someone who can help you replace your car keys. Your VIN is usually on your insurance card, however, it's also in various other locations on the vehicle, such as on a panel just above the driver's seat and on the back of the engine block, in the trunk, or the door jamb, and on the frame between the carburetor washer and the windshield.

4. Call a locksmith

Being locked out of your car is terrifying, especially on a dark night. If you aren't sure where your keys are, or if they've been lost or stolen you should call a locksmith.

Locksmiths are professional contractor who is skilled in all things related to locks and entry access. They are educated in the installation, removal, repair and disassembly ignition cylinders, doors and.

The majority of people in this position try to save money and then call their local dealership to request the new set. This is usually an unwise choice. Most dealerships will charge you much more than other shops or parts stores, and it could take some time to receive your keys.

You can also contact a locksmith to unlock your lock in case of emergency. They can then make new keys for you. The locksmith will probably require the spare key to decode the lock, so they can create a new key for your car. The locksmith will take out the old key and program an entirely new one to begin the vehicle.

The locksmith will need to access your vehicle to reprogram the computer of the vehicle to accept the new key. This is known as "key fob replacement" or "all key lost".

Today, most cars include transponder keys that utilize tiny plastic heads with an electronic chip that communicates with the car's immobilizer. The chip may be damaged by water, heat and battery issues or any other cause. If this happens, you will have to replace the entire key and the car's computer has to be changed to accept it. A reliable locksmith mobile will be able to accomplish this for you, and also create keys that work well in the future.