Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do

If you've lost the ignition key, it's important to find out where 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 easy and affordable. Locksmiths can create an original 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 many factors that could cause your car key not to turn on the ignition. First, it could be worn. As time passes the pins within the cylinder may become worn out, stopping it from turning. This is the main reason why people aren't in a position to start their vehicle.

A dead battery inside the key fob might require replacement. This is a simple fix that can be completed at home. Purchase new batteries for the key fob and verify that it is compatible with your car.

It could also be that the ignition switch you are using is not working. The ignition switch is an electronic component that supplies power to various components when you insert your car keys into the ignition cylinder. The ignition switch is not the one that starts the car; it is only the one that allows the engine to start.

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

Modern cars employ a different method to stop theft of cars that utilizes an electronic chip built into the head of the key. They are also referred to as transponder key. When you insert a key that has a transponder in the van ignition repair, it sends an identification code to the car's antenna ring. This unique code lets the computer in the engine to start the starter motor.

If your car has transponder, you'll not be capable of starting it when the battery on the key fob goes out. It's always a good idea to have an extra car key on hand, just in case. However, the majority of auto makers build in a failsafe 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 rush or doing something that demands your attention. If you're not careful, they are easily lost, leading to an unsettling situation. There are steps you can take to get from frustration and panic back to your keys.

You may think that traditional keys are no longer needed, but they are still available from your local auto dealer or automotive locksmith. These are standard keys which secure the door and ignition and then start the car when turned. They can also be used to open a trunk or glove box. Traditional keys are typically the most affordable to replace and your locksmith should be able cut a key while you are waiting.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are plastic casings with buttons that allow you to lock and lost ignition Key unlock the car (and in some cases, even activate the alarm or open your trunk). Some of these devices include physical keys. Your local automotive locksmith can reprogram fobs but only after adding a new transmitter and transponder chip to the key.

Many of us have been guilty of omitting our keys when stressed or distracted. It's probably not an issue when you forgot keys in your car in an Uber, cab, bus or ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. If you do lose them at home, or at work, you may put your belongings and your family's safety at risk.

Try your spare key first. It might be hidden somewhere in your house or your bag, so it's worth a quick search. Also, consider retracing your steps from where you left your vehicle to get to your workplace or home.

You can also run your VIN 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. This is why Guardian Safe & Lock recommends getting replacement automotive locks changed to the original key cuts whenever possible.

3. Check the Door Locks

If you're having trouble starting your car, there may be an issue with the door locks. They could be unsecured or locked with the key inside. If you lose your car keys there should be a spare key that came along with the vehicle. The keys are usually kept in the key fob, or as a backup you can use to open the vehicle. You can also use a device like the Slim Jim in order to gain access to your vehicle without causing damage the ignition switch or door locks.

The battery could be dead if the key fob works but isn't able to turn on the ignition. If this is the scenario, you'll have to replace the batteries in the key fob and reprogram it if necessary.

Over time, car keys wear down and their edges may break off inside the lock or ignition cylinder. The wafers that make up the key might not be engaged properly making it difficult to turn the ignition.

Another issue that is common to a car key is that it might turn on and off when it's in the ignition. The internal components of the ignition switch are deteriorating, leading to intermittent problems.

It's not common for people to grab the wrong key from their table or their key ring when they're trying to start the car. This could cause problems as certain keys look similar and you could have accidentally inserted the wrong key into the ignition key cylinder.

It is possible to fix this issue at home with a simple cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. This will remove any foreign material from the surface of your key, which could prevent it from turning the ignition or unlocking doors.

If you're still having issues take a note of your VIN (vehicle identification number) before calling 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 engine block's back or in the trunk or on the door jamb.

4. Call an expert locksmith

Being locked out of your car is a scary situation, especially in the dark of night. If you aren't sure where your keys are or if they've been lost or stolen it is recommended to contact a locksmith.

A locksmith is a skilled contractor who is skilled in everything related to locks and access to. They are trained in the installation of, removal, repair, and disassembly of locks ignition cylinders and doors.

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

Luckily, you can also find locksmiths in times of need and let them unlock your lock or make a new one for you. If you have a spare key the locksmith may only need to use it to decode the lock so they can create a brand Lost Ignition Key new key that works with your vehicle. The locksmith will erase the old key from the car's system, which means it will not be able to start the car until the new key is programmed to work with it.

If you own an transponder key the locksmith will require to gain access into your vehicle, then make use of a special device to reprogram your car's computer to be able to connect with the new key. This process is called "key fob replacement" or "all keys lost ignition key".

Transponder keys are used in the majority of cars in the present. They are a small plastic key that contains a computer chip to communicate with an immobilizer. The chip inside the key may be damaged by heat, water battery issues, or other factors that cause it not function properly. If this happens, you'll need to replace the whole key and the car's computer needs to be reprogrammed to accept it. A good locksmith mobile can do this for you and make an appropriate key that will function well in the future.