Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do
If you lost the ignition key, it's vital to find out where you may have seen it. Follow your steps and try to recall what you were doing last time you recall seeing the keys.
Replacing the traditional car key is easy and affordable. A locksmith can create a new key right away 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 reasons that could cause your car key to not to turn the ignition. First, it could be worn. Over time the pins within the cylinder could be worn out, preventing it from turning. This is the main cause of people not being capable of starting 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 an easy fix that is done at home. Purchase an additional battery for your key fob and check if it works with your car.
It is possible that your ignition switch is suffering from a fault. The ignition switch is a component that powers certain components upon inserting your car key 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.
If you have an ordinary ignition key with a metal shaft that is inserted into a plastic head or cylinder, within your vehicle's ignition. When you turn the key into your ignition, it presses the tumblers in a precise order and shuts off the circuit for ignition, which will then supply power to the starter motor to start the engine.
Modern cars use an electronic chip embedded in the key head to prevent car theft. Keys with transponders are commonly referred to as transponder keys. When you insert a key with a transponder into the ignition, it sends an identification code to the car's antenna ring. This unique code will activate the engine's computer, allowing the starter motor to rotate.
If your car has transponder, you'll not be in a position to start it once the battery in the key fob dies. It is always a smart idea to have an extra car key on hand to be prepared in the event of. However, the majority of auto makers include a failsafe to ensure that your car is started in the event that the key with the chip is lost.
2. Check the Locks
Car keys usually get lost when you're in a rush or doing something that demands your attention. They can be easily lost in the event of a mishap and can result in a stressful situation when it happens. There are steps you can take to avoid stress and anxiety back to your keys.
It's possible to think that traditional keys are an old fashion thing, but they're still are available for purchase at your auto dealership or from an automotive locksmith. These are standard keys which secure the door and ignition and then start the car when you turn it. They can also be used to unlock your trunk or glove box. Traditional keys are generally the cheapest to replace and your local locksmith should be able to cut one while you are waiting.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are plastic casings that have buttons for locking and unlocking the car (and in some cases, activate the alarm or open your trunk). Some of these devices have physical keys. Fobs can be programmed by a locksmith in your area however only after a new transponder chip and a transmitter have been added to the key.
We've all been guilty of putting our keys in the wrong place when we're in a hurry or distracted. If you were in a taxi or a ride-sharing service, such as Uber or Lyft you might not have been an issue if your keys were left in your seat. If you lose them at home, or at work, you may put your belongings and your family's safety at risk.
If you have a spare key, try that first. You might find it in your bag or house. It's worth a quick glance. Also, think about retracing your steps from where you left your vehicle to your home or work place.
You can also run your VIN through the key database. However, if your locks have been modified or replaced or rekeyed, running your VIN number through the key database won't generate a new key that works. This is the reason Guardian Safe & Lock recommends replacing automotive locks with keys that are replaced with keys that match the original cuts as often as is possible.
3. Check the door locks
You may have problems with your door locks if are having difficulty getting your vehicle started. The door locks might be locked or open with the key inside. If you've lost your car keys, you should have a backup key that came with the vehicle. Keys are often stored in the key fob, or as a backup you can use to open the vehicle. You can also try a tool such as the Slim Jim to gain entry into your car without causing damage to the locks on your doors or the ignition switch.
The battery could be dead If the key fob is working but won't turn on the ignition. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the batteries in the key fob and reprogramme it if required.
Over time keys for cars wear down and their edges may break off inside the lock or ignition cylinder. This can make it difficult for you to start the ignition since the wafers in the key aren't fully engaged.
The car key can occasionally turn off or on when it is in the ignition. This is due to the fact that the internal components are wearing down, causing intermittent problems with the ignition switch.
It's not uncommon for people to grab the wrong key from their table or from their key rings when trying to get their car started. It could be a challenge because certain keys are alike and you might accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.
You can fix this issue at home with a cotton swab that has been dipped in ruby alcohol. This will remove any foreign material from the surface of the key, which could hinder it from turning the ignition or unlocking the doors.
If you're still having issues, write down your VIN number (vehicle ID number) before calling a locksmith. This will increase your chances of finding someone to replace your car keys. You can locate your VIN on your insurance card. It's also on a piece of paper above the driver's seat, on the back of the engine block or in the trunk or on the door jamb.
4. Contact a locksmith
Being locked out of your car can be an extremely stressful situation, particularly in the dark of night. If you don't know where your keys are, or if they've been lost or stolen, it is best to contact a locksmith.
A locksmith is a skilled contractor who is skilled in everything related to locks and access to. ignition lock repair are certified to install, remove and repair doors, locks, and ignition cylinders.
A lot of people in this kind of situation will try to save money by calling their car dealership to create a new set of keys but this is usually not a good idea. Most dealerships will charge you much more than other shops or parts stores, and it might take some time to receive your keys.
You can also contact a locksmith to unlock your lock in case of emergency. They will then design an additional key for you. The locksmith will most likely require your spare key to decode the lock, and they can make a new key for your car. The locksmith will remove the old key from the car system, meaning it won't be able to start until it is programmed to work with it.
If you have an transponder key locksmiths 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 to the new key. This process is called "key fob replacement" or "all keys lost".
Most cars today include transponder keys that utilize a small plastic head with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer of the car. The chip inside the key may be damaged by water, heat battery issues, or other factors that cause it to 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 locksmith on the move who is knowledgeable will be able to create an appropriate key that will work in the future.