Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do
If you've lost your ignition key, it's important to look for all places you could have seen it. Retrace your footsteps and try to recall what you were doing when you last saw the keys.
Replacing a car key is simple and inexpensive. A locksmith can make an entirely new car key without the original. However, a technologically advanced key, such as a transponder, switchblade, or smart key will require roadside assistance to replace.
1. Check the Ignition
There are several things that can cause your car key not to turn on the ignition. First, it could be worn. As time passes, the pins inside of the cylinder may wear out, which will prevent it from turning. This is the main reason why people aren't able to start their car.
Another possibility is that the key fob is an inoperative battery and requires to be replaced. This is a simple fix that you can do at home. Purchase a new key fob battery and verify that it is compatible with your car.
In the end, it could be that the ignition switch you are using is not working. The ignition switch is an electronic component that provides power to specific components when you insert your car keys into the ignition cylinder. It is important to know that the ignition switch will not start the vehicle; it is only a means for the engine to start.
When you turn the ignition key it forces tumblers into a specific arrangement and then closes an ignition circuit. When you turn your ignition key, it forces tumblers in a specific arrangement, and then shuts off the ignition circuit. Then, it will supply power to the starter motor to allow the engine to start.
Modern cars employ a different method to stop theft of cars that utilizes an electronic chip built into the key head. They are also referred to as transponder keys. When you insert a key that has a transponder in the ignition, it sends 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.
If your car has a transponder, you will not be capable of starting it when the battery on the key fob goes out. This is why it is always an excellent idea to have an extra key on hand, just in case! However, many auto manufacturers include a failsafe to get your car started in the event that the key with the chip is lost.
2. Check the Locks
When you are in a hurry or performing something else that requires your attention, it is more likely that you'll lose your car keys. If you're not careful they could easily get lost, leading to stress. There are steps you can take to get from frustration and panic back to your keys.
You might think that keys like the old-fashioned ones are an old fashion thing, but they're still available to purchase from your auto dealership or from an automotive locksmith. They are the standard keys that lock your door and ignition, and start the engine once you turn. You can also make use of these keys to open the trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are the most affordable and easiest to replace. Your local locksmith can cut you a key while you sit.
Key fobs were introduced in the early 1990s and are made of plastic casings that have buttons that can lock and unlock your vehicle (and in certain instances activate the alarm or open the trunk). Some of these devices include physical keys that are tucked inside. Your local automotive locksmith can reprogramme fobs, but only after adding an additional transponder and transmitter chip to the key.
We've all been guilty of putting our keys in the wrong place when we're in a hurry or distracted. It's not important when you forgot them in your seat when you took a taxi, subway or bus, or a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. If you are unable to locate them at work or home, you could put your family and belongings in danger.
Start by looking for your spare key. It could be in your bag or house. It is worth a quick look. Also, think about returning to the place you left your vehicle to the home or work place.
Another alternative is to run your VIN number through the key database. However, if your locks have been changed or rekeyed or rekeyed, running your VIN number through the key database won't produce an original key that functions. This is why Guardian Safe & Lock recommends having replacement automotive locks replaced with keys that match the original cuts whenever possible.
3. Check the door locks
If you're experiencing difficulty getting your car started, it could be a problem with the door locks. They could be open or locked with the key inside. If you've lost your car keys, you should have a spare backup key that came with your vehicle. These keys can be found in the key fob, or as a backup that you use to unlock your vehicle. You could also use a tool like a 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 works but won't turn on the ignition. If this is the scenario, you'll have to replace the batteries inside the key fob and re-programme it if needed.
Over time keys to cars wear out and their edges may break off inside the lock or the ignition cylinder. This can make it difficult to turn the ignition as the wafers in the key aren't properly engaged.
A car key can also occasionally turn off or on when in the ignition. The internal components of the ignition switch are deteriorating, leading to intermittent issues.
When people try to start their car, they typically pick the wrong key from their key ring or table. This can cause problems because certain keys look similar and you could be putting the wrong key into the ignition cylinder.
This is a quick fix that you can do at home: simply wipe down the key with an alcohol-based swab or cotton swab, and then rubbing alcohol. This will remove any foreign substance from the surface of the key that can 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 increases the chances of finding someone who can replace your car key. You can find your VIN on your insurance card. It's also on a panel located above the driver's chair, on the engine block's back or in the trunk or on the door jamb.
4. Call for a locksmith
It's scary to be locked out of your car particularly at night. If you're not sure where your keys went, or if you think your key has been lost or stolen the best thing you can do is to call an locksmith to help you unlock your door.
A locksmith is a skilled contractor who has specialized skills in everything related to locks and entry access. They are trained in the installation, removal, repair and disassembly of locks ignition cylinders and doors.
Most people who find themselves in this position try to save money by calling their local dealership to request an upgrade. This is typically a bad decision. Most dealerships will charge you more than other shops or parts stores, and it could take a while to get your keys.
You can also call a locksmith to unlock your lock in the event of an emergency. car ignition replacement will then design a new key for you. If you have a spare key, the locksmith will likely require it to decode the lock so that they can create a brand new key that will work with your vehicle. The locksmith will wipe the old key off the car system, meaning it will not be able to start the car until the new key is programmed to work with it.
If you have a transponder key, the locksmith will need to gain entry into your vehicle, and then make use of a special device to re-program the car's computer to connect with the new key. This is a procedure known as "all key lost" or "key fob replacement".
Transponder keys are utilized in a majority of automobiles today. They use a small plastic key that contains a computer chip to communicate with an immobilizer. The chip in the key may be damaged by heat, water battery issues, or other factors that cause it to stop working properly. If this happens, you will have to replace the entire key and the vehicle's computer has to be changed to accept it. A locksmith on the move who is knowledgeable can create keys for you that will work in the future.