Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do

If you lost your ignition key, it's vital to find out where 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 that is old-fashioned is easy and inexpensive. A locksmith can create a new key right away without the original. However, a more technologically advanced key like the switchblade, transponder or smart key will require assistance from a roadside to replace.

1. Check the ignition

There are many reasons that could cause your car key not to turn in the ignition. The first thing is that it could be worn out. As time passes, the pins inside of the cylinder may wear out and stop it from turning. This is the main reason for people not being able to start their car.

A dead battery inside the key fob might require replacement. If this is the case, it is a simple fix car ignition and can be done at home. Just purchase a new battery for your key fob, and test whether it works in your car.

It could also be that your ignition switch is faulty. The ignition switch is an element that provides power to certain components upon inserting your car key into the ignition cylinder. It is important to remember that the ignition switch will not start the vehicle; it allows the engine to be started.

When you turn the ignition key and it pushes tumblers into a specific arrangement and closes an ignition circuit. When you turn the key into your ignition, it forces the tumblers into a precise arrangement and closes an ignition circuit that will then provide power to the starter motor in order to start the engine.

Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip that is embedded inside the key head to prevent car theft. They are also referred to as transponder key. When you insert a lock with a transponder in 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 over.

If your car is equipped with transponder technology, you will not be in a position to start it once the battery in the key fob fails. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare key with you, just in the event of a problem! However, many auto manufacturers build in a failsafe to ensure that your car is 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 demands your attention, it is more likely that you will lose your car keys. If you're not careful they could easily get lost, leading to a stressful situation. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to go from frustration and panic to finding your keys again.

You might think traditional keys are no longer needed however, they are accessible from your local auto dealer or automotive locksmith. They are the standard keys that secure your ignition and door, and also start the engine when you turn it. They can also be used to open a trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are most affordable and easiest to replace. A locksmith at your local will cut you one while you sit.

Key fobs were introduced in the late '90s and are made of plastic casings with buttons that can lock and unlock your car (and in certain cases they can set off the alarm or open the trunk). Some of these devices have physical keys. The local locksmith in your area can reprogram fobs but only after adding the new transponder and transmitter chip to the key.

Many of us have been guilty of omitting our keys while in a rush or distracted. It might not be a big deal when you forgot keys in your car when you took a subway, taxi or bus, or even a ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. If you lose them at home or at work, you could put your family's belongings and personal belongings in danger.

Check your spare key first. You may find it in your bag or house. It's worth a quick look. Also, think about going back to where you left your vehicle to your place of work or residence.

Another alternative 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 result in 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

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, you should have a backup key that came with the vehicle. These keys can be found in the key fob or as a backup you can use to open your vehicle. You can also use a device like a Slim Jim in order to gain access to your vehicle without damaging the ignition switch or door locks.

If the key fob is functioning, but it won't turn the ignition lock repair services, this could be because the battery is dead. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the batteries on the key fob and re-programme it if needed.

Over time keys to cars wear out and their edges may break off in the lock or ignition cylinder. This can make it difficult to start the ignition since the wafers in the key aren't fully engaged.

A car key may occasionally turn off or on while in the ignition. The internal components of the ignition switch are wearing out, causing intermittent problems.

It's not uncommon for people to pick the wrong key off their table or from their key rings when trying to get their car started. This can lead to problems since certain keys look similar and you might have accidentally inserted the wrong key into the ignition key cylinder.

This is a simple fix ignition switch that you can do at home: just clean the key with the help of a cotton swab and ruby alcohol. This will remove any foreign materials off the surface of your key that may stop it from turning the ignition or unlocking doors.

If you're having difficulty it is recommended that you write down your VIN (vehicle identification number) before contacting locksmith. This increases the chances of locating someone to replace your car keys. The VIN can be found on your insurance card. It's also on a panel above the driver's seat, on the back of the engine block and in the trunk or on the door jamb.

4. Contact for a locksmith

It's scary to be locked out of your car especially at the dark. If you don't know where your keys are or if they have been lost or stolen it is recommended to contact a locksmith.

Locksmiths are skilled contractor who has specialized knowledge of locks and access. They are trained in the installation of, removal, repair, and disassembly of locks ignition cylinders and doors.

The majority of people in this situation try to save money by calling their car dealership for an upgrade. This is usually not a good idea. Dealerships typically charge more than other car parts stores or shops, and it could take a long time to get the keys you require.

It is possible to locate locksmiths in times of need and have them decode your lock or create an entirely new key for you. The locksmith will likely only need to use your spare key to decode the lock, so they can create a brand new key for your car. The locksmith will take out the old key and then program a new one to start the vehicle.

If you have transponder keys, the locksmith will need to gain access to your vehicle, then use a special device to reprogram the car's computer to connect to the new key. This is known as "all key lost" or "key fob replacement".

Today, most cars include transponder keys that utilize a small plastic head with an electronic chip that communicates with the car's immobilizer. The chip in the key may be damaged by water, heat battery issues, or other factors that cause it malfunction. In this instance, you'll need to replace the key and reprogram the computer in your vehicle to accept it. A reliable mobile locksmith will be able to accomplish this for you and create a key that will work well in the future.