Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do
It is important to check all places you might have seen your ignition key. Retrace your steps and try to recall what you were doing the last time you saw the keys.
Replacing the traditional car key is simple and affordable. A locksmith can create a new key right away without the original. However, a more technologically advanced key such as a transponder, switchblade, or smart key will require assistance from a roadside to replace.
1. Check the Ignition
There are several reasons why your car key doesn't engage in the ignition. First, it could be worn. As time passes the pins inside the cylinder can be worn out, preventing it from turning. This is the primary reason that people are unable to start their car.
Another possibility is that the key fob is an inoperative battery and requires to be replaced. If this is the case, it is a simple fix and can be done at home. Purchase a new key fob battery and check if it works with your car.
It is possible that your ignition switch is suffering from an issue. 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 will not actually start the vehicle, it allows the engine to start.
If you own a standard ignition key, it has a metal shaft that is fitted into a plastic head, or cylinder, within your vehicle's ignition. When you turn the key on your ignition, it forces a set of tumblers into a specific arrangement and shuts off the circuit for ignition, which will then provide power to the starter motor to start the engine.
Modern cars employ a different system to protect against theft of cars using an electronic chip embedded in the key head. Keys with transponders are also referred to as transponder keys. When you insert a key with transponder into your ignition, it transmits an identification code to your car's antenna. This unique code will trigger the engine's computer to allow the starter motor to turn over.
If your car is equipped with transponder technology, you will not be capable of starting it when the battery on the key fob goes out. It is always a good idea to have an extra car key in your possession just in case. The majority of auto makers offer a failsafe to assist you in starting your car in the event that the chip-encoded key is lost.
2. Check the Locks
When you are in a hurry or performing something else that demands your attention, it is more likely that you'll lose your car keys. If you're not careful, they are easily lost which can lead to stress. There are steps you can take to get from frustration and panic back to your keys.
You may think that keys that were traditionally used are an old fashion thing, but they're still are available for purchase at your auto dealership or from an automotive locksmith. These are keys that secure your ignition and door and then start the engine when turned. You can also use them to open a trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are the most affordable and easiest to replace. auto locksmith ignition replacement can cut you one while you sit.
Key fobs were first introduced in the late '90s, and they are made of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle (and in some cases activate the alarm or open the trunk). Some of these devices include 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 leaving keys in the car when we're in a hurry or distracted. It's not an issue when you forgot keys in your seat in an Uber, cab or bus, or even a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. If you lose them at work or home, you could put your family and belongings in danger.
If you have an extra key, you can try that first. It may be hidden in your home or in your bag, making it worth an initial search. Think about retracing the steps that you took from where you parked your car to your workplace or home.
Another alternative is to run your VIN number through the key database. If your locks have been altered or rekeyed, running your VIN number through the key database won't produce a new key that works. This is the reason Guardian Safe & Lock recommends having replacement automotive locks re-keyed to the original key cuts 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 may be locked or unlocked with the key inside. If you lose your car keys, you should have a spare key that came with the vehicle. Keys are often hidden in the key fob, or as a backup you can use to unlock your 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.
If the key fob is functioning, but it won't turn the ignition, it could be because the battery has died. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the batteries on the key fob and reprogramme it if required.
Over time, the edges of car keys can wear away 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 can sometimes switch on and off while it's in the ignition. The internal components of the ignition switch are deteriorating, leading to intermittent issues.
It's not common for people to take the wrong key off their table or from their key rings when trying to start the car. This could be a problem because some keys are very alike and you might accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.
You can fix this problem at home with a simple cotton Swab that is dipped into rubbing alcohol. This will remove any foreign substances from the surface of your key that may prevent it from turning the ignition on or unlocking doors.
If you are still having trouble make a note of your VIN number (vehicle ID number) before you call a locksmith. This will give you a greater chance of finding someone who can assist you with replacing your car keys. Your VIN is usually located on your insurance card however, it's also in various other locations on the vehicle itself, such as on a panel that is above the driver's seat or on the back of the engine block, in the trunk or on the door jamb, and on the frame that runs between the carburetor washer and the windshield.
4. Call for a locksmith
It's scary to be locked out of your vehicle especially at the dark. If you don't know where your keys are, or if they have been stolen or lost you should contact a locksmith.
A locksmith is a professional contractor who has specialized skills in all things related to locks and entry access. They are educated in the installation as well as the removal, repair and disassembly ignition cylinders, and doors.
Many people in this kind of situation try to save money by calling their dealership to make an entirely new set of keys however this is generally a bad idea. Most dealerships will charge you much more than other shops or parts stores, and it may take a while to get your keys.
Luckily, you can also find locksmiths in the event of an emergency and have them decode your lock or create the new one for you. The locksmith will probably require the spare key to decode the lock, which means they can make a new key for your vehicle. The locksmith will remove the old key from the car system, meaning it will not be able to start the car until it is programmed to work with it.
The locksmith will have to access your vehicle to reprogram the computer of the car to accept the new key. This is a procedure known as "all key lost" or "key fob replacement".
Today, most cars include transponder keys that utilize tiny plastic heads with a computer chip to communicate with the car's immobilizer. The chip may be damaged by heat, water and battery issues or any other reason. In this situation you'll have to replace the key and reprogram the vehicle's computer to accept it. A locksmith on the move who is experienced can create an appropriate key that will function in the future.