Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do

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

Replacing an old-fashioned car key is easy and inexpensive. A locksmith can make an original car key, without the original. A key that is more technologically advanced, such as transponder, smart keys or switchblade will require assistance from a roadside.

1. Check the Ignition

There are several reasons that could cause your car key to not to turn the ignition. The first thing is that it may wear out. Over time the pins in the cylinder will wear out, which will prevent it from turning. This is the main reason why people aren't able to start their cars.

Another possibility is that the key fob is a dead battery that needs to be replaced. If this is the case, it's an easy fix and can be done at home. Buy a new key fob battery and test it to see if it is compatible with your car.

It is possible that your ignition switch has malfunction. The ignition switch is an electrical device that provides power to specific components when you insert your car keys into the ignition cylinder. It is important to remember that the ignition switch does not actually start the vehicle, it is only a means for the engine to be started.

If you have an ordinary ignition key, it has a metal shaft that is fitted into a plastic head or cylinder, inside the ignition of your vehicle. When you turn your ignition cylinder replacement near me key, it forces tumblers into a precise arrangement and closes the circuit for ignition. This will then supply power to the starter motor to allow the engine to start.

Modern cars have a new method to stop theft of cars that utilizes an electronic chip built into the head of the key. Keys with transponders are also referred to as transponder keys. When you place a key with a transponder into the ignition, it transmits an identification code to the car's antenna ring. This code is unique and will activate the engine's computer to allow the starter motor to turn over.

If your car is equipped with transponder keys it is impossible to start it if the key fob battery dies. It's always a good idea to keep a spare car key on hand just in case. However, the majority of auto makers build in a failsafe to get your car started in the event that the key with the chip is lost.

2. Check the Locks

Car keys usually get lost when you're in a hurry or performing something that requires your attention. If you're not careful they could easily get lost, leading to stress. Fortunately, there are ways to get from panic and frustration to locating your keys once more.

It is possible to think that traditional keys are obsolete however, they are available from your local auto dealer or automotive locksmith. They are the standard keys that lock the door and ignition and allow the car to start when turned. You can also utilize these keys to unlock a glove box or trunk. Traditional keys are typically the least expensive to replace and your locksmith should be able cut a key while you wait.

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 come with physical keys that are tucked inside. Your local automotive locksmith can reprogram fobs, but only after adding the new transponder and transmitter chip to the key.

We've all made the mistake of putting our keys in the wrong place when we're in a hurry or distracted. If you were in a taxi or other ride-sharing services, like Uber or Lyft, it could not have been an issue if they were left on the seat. If you lose them at home or at work it could put your family and possessions in danger.

If you have an extra key, you can try that first. It may be hidden in your home or in your bag, so it is worth an initial search. Think about retracing the steps that you took from the place you parked your vehicle to your home or workplace.

You can also run your VIN through the key database. If your locks have already been rekeyed or changed, running your VIN through the key database won't result in an appropriate key. Guardian Safe & Lock recommends that replacement automotive locks be re-keyed to match the original key cut as often as is feasible.

3. Check the door locks

If you're experiencing difficulty getting your car started, it may be an issue with the door locks. They could be open or locked with the key inside. If you've lost your car keys, you must have a backup key that came with your vehicle. Keys are often kept in the key fob or as a backup you can use to unlock the vehicle. You could also use a tool such as the Slim Jim in order to gain access to your vehicle without causing damage the ignition switch or door locks.

The battery may be dead If the key fob functions but it isn't turning on the ignition. You'll need to replace the batteries in the keyfob, and then reprogram the device if required.

Over time, car key edges wear out and break off in the ignition lock or cylinder. The wafers on the key might not be engaged properly making it difficult to turn the ignition.

Another common problem with car keys is that it might turn on and off when it's in the ignition. This is because the internal components are wearing down and can cause 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 start the car. It could be a challenge because some keys are very similar and you could accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.

You can fix this problem at home with a simple cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. This will remove any foreign substances off the surface of your key that could prevent it from turning the ignition on or unlocking doors.

If you're still having trouble, you should write down your VIN (vehicle identification number) before contacting an locksmith. This will increase the likelihood of locating someone to replace your car key. The VIN will usually be on your insurance card, however, it's also found in various other locations on the vehicle itself, 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 and windshield washer.

4. Call a Locksmith

Being locked out of your vehicle is an extremely stressful situation, particularly in the dark of night. If you don't know where your keys went, or if your keys are lost or stolen the best thing to do is call an locksmith to help you unlock your door.

A locksmith is an expert contractor with extensive knowledge of locks and access. They are trained to install, remove and repair doors as well as locks and ignition cylinders.

Many people in this kind of situation will attempt to save money by calling their dealership to make an entirely new set of keys, but this is usually an unwise choice. The majority of dealerships charge more than other car parts stores or shops and it could take an extended time to obtain the keys you need.

You can also contact a locksmith to decode your lock in case of emergency. They will then design new keys for you. The locksmith will likely only require the spare key to decode the lock, and they can create a new key for your vehicle. The locksmith will take out the old key and then program a new one to start the vehicle.

The locksmith must enter your vehicle in order to reset the computer in the vehicle to accept the new key. This is known as "key fob replacement" or "all key lost".

Most cars today have transponder keys that use small heads of plastic that have a computer chip to communicate with the immobilizer of the car. The chip in the key could be damaged by water, heat and battery problems, as well as other reasons that make it stop working properly. In this instance you'll have to replace the key and re-program the car's computer to accept it. A mobile locksmith who is experienced will be able to create a key for you that will function in the future.