Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do
If you've lost the ignition key, it's vital to look for all places you might have seen it. Retrace your steps and try to recall what you were doing the last time you were able to remember seeing the keys.
Replacing a traditional car key is easy and inexpensive. Locksmiths can make an entirely new key in a matter of minutes without the original. However, a more technologically advanced key such as the switchblade, transponder or smart key will require roadside assistance to replace.
1. Check the Ignition
There are a few different things that can cause your car key not to turn in the ignition. The first is that it may be worn. Over time the pins within the cylinder can become worn out, stopping it from turning. This is the primary reason for people not being in a position to start their vehicle.
A dead battery in the key fob may also need to be replaced. If this is the case, it is an easy fix and is done at home. Just purchase a new battery for your key fob, and test if it works in your car.
Lastly, it may be that your ignition switch is defective. The ignition switch is an electrical component that provides power to specific components when you insert your car key into the ignition cylinder. It is important to remember that the ignition switch does not start the vehicle; it allows the engine to be started.
When you turn the ignition key it forces tumblers into a precise arrangement and closes an ignition circuit. When you turn your ignition key, it forces tumblers in a specific arrangement and then closes the ignition circuit. Then, it will supply power to the starter motor so that the engine can start.
Modern cars use a different method to stop theft of cars using an electronic chip embedded in the head of the key. Keys with transponders are also referred to as transponder key. When you insert a key with transponder into your ignition, it sends an identification code to your car's antenna. This unique code will activate the engine's computer, allowing the starter motor to turn.
If your car is equipped with a transponder key it is impossible to start it in the event that the battery for the key fob fails. It is always a smart idea to keep a spare car key on hand to be prepared in the event of. Many automakers have a failsafe feature that can aid you in starting your car if the key with chip is lost.
2. Check the Locks
Car keys are typically lost when you're in a rush or doing something that demands your attention. If you're not careful, they are easily lost which can lead to a stressful situation. There are steps you can take to avoid panic and stress to finding your keys again.
You might think that traditional keys are a thing of the past but they're still can be purchased from your local auto dealer or an automotive locksmith. These are standard keys which secure the door and ignition and allow the car to start when turned. You can also utilize these keys to unlock the trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are the cheapest and most common to replace. Your local locksmith can cut you one while you are waiting.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are plastic casings with buttons for locking and unlocking the car (and, in some cases, to activate the alarm or open your trunk). Some of these devices come with physical keys that are tucked inside. Fobs can be reprogrammed by a locksmith in your area, but only after a new transponder chip and an additional transmitter are added to the key.
We've all made the mistake of leaving keys in the car when we're in a rush or distracted. If you were in a taxi or a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft It could not have been an issue if they were left on your seat. If you have them stolen at home or at work it could put your family's belongings and personal belongings in danger.
Start by looking for your spare key. You may find it in your home or bag. It is worth a quick look. Consider retracing the steps you took from the point you parked your vehicle to your workplace or home.
car ignition switch is to run your VIN number through the key database. If your locks have been changed or rekeyed then running your VIN through the key database won't produce an appropriate key. Guardian Safe & Lock recommends that the replacement locks for automotive be re-keyed in accordance with the original key cut as often as is feasible.
3. Check the Door Locks
There could be a problem with the door locks if you are having trouble starting your vehicle. They could be open or locked with the key inside. If you've lost your car keys, you should have a backup key that came with your vehicle. These keys are often hidden in the key fob or as a backup you can use to unlock your vehicle. You could also try a tool like the Slim Jim to gain entry into your vehicle without causing damage to the locks on your doors or ignition switch.
The battery may be dead if the key fob works but it isn't turning on the ignition. You'll need to replace batteries in the keyfob and reprogram the device if required.
Over time keys to cars wear out and their edges can break off inside the lock or ignition cylinder. This could make it difficult to start the ignition since the wafers in the key aren't properly engaged.
The car key can occasionally switch on and off while in the ignition. This is due to the fact that the internal components are wearing out, causing intermittent problems with the ignition switch.
When people attempt to start their vehicle, they usually grab the wrong key by mistake from their key table or ring. It could be a challenge because some keys are very similar, and you may accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.
You can fix this issue at home with a simple cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. This will remove any foreign matter off the surface of the key, which could hinder it from turning the ignition or unlocking the doors.
If you are still having trouble make a note of your VIN number (vehicle ID number) before calling a locksmith. This will increase your chance of finding someone who can help you replace your car keys. You can locate your VIN on your insurance card. It's also on a panel located above the driver's seat on the back of the engine block or in the trunk or on the door jamb.
4. Contact for a locksmith
It's terrifying to be locked out of your car especially at night. If you aren't sure where your keys are or if they've been stolen or lost, it is best to call a locksmith.
A locksmith is a skilled contractor with specialized knowledge in everything related to locks and entry access. They are educated in the installation of, removal, repair, and disassembly of locks, ignition cylinders, doors and.
A lot of people in this kind of situation will try to save money by calling their car dealer to create new keys but this is usually a bad idea. Dealerships typically charge more than other car parts shops or shops, and it can take an extended time to obtain the keys you require.
You can locate locksmiths in the event of an emergency and have them decode your lock or create the new one for you. The locksmith will likely only require your spare key to decode the lock, and they can create a brand new key for your car. The locksmith will remove the old key and program the new one to start the vehicle.
If you own an transponder key the locksmith will require to gain entry into your vehicle, and then make use of a special device to re-program the car's computer to be able to connect with the new key. This process is called "key fob replacement" or "all key lost".
The majority of cars today come with transponder keys, which use tiny plastic heads with a computer chip to communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer. The chip in the key could be damaged by heat, water and battery problems, as well as other factors that cause it not function properly. If this happens, you will have to replace the entire key, and the computer in your vehicle needs to be reprogrammed to accept it. A reliable mobile locksmith can do this for you and make an appropriate key that will function well in the future.