Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do
If you lost the ignition key, it's important to find out where you might have seen it. Follow your steps and try to recall what you were doing last time you saw the keys.
Replacing a traditional car key is simple and inexpensive. A locksmith can make a new car key 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 things that can cause your car key to not to turn on the ignition. The first is that it may be worn. As time passes the pins in the cylinder may wear out and stop it from turning. This is the main reason that people are unable to start their cars.
A dead battery in the key fob might require replacement. This is a simple fix that you can do at your home. Buy new batteries for the key fob and verify that it is compatible with your car.
It is possible that your ignition switch is suffering from malfunction. The ignition switch is a part that provides power to certain components upon inserting your car keys into the ignition cylinder. The ignition switch isn't the one that starts the car, it is only the one that allows the engine to start.
When you turn the ignition key, it pushes a set of tumblers into an exact arrangement and then closes an ignition circuit. When you turn the key into your ignition, it pushes a set of tumblers into a specific arrangement and shuts off an ignition circuit, which will then provide power to the starter motor in order to start the engine.
Modern cars have an electronic chip that is embedded in the key head to stop car theft. Keys with transponders are also referred to as transponder key. When you insert a lock with a transponder in your ignition, it sends an identification code to the car's antenna. This unique code will trigger the engine's computer to allow the starter motor to rotate.
If your car is equipped with transponder keys it is impossible to start it in the event that the battery for the key fob fails. This is why it is always an excellent idea to have a spare key with you, just in the event of a problem! However, the majority of auto makers include a failsafe to get your car started in the event that the key with the chip is lost.
2. Check the Locks
Car keys are typically lost when you're in a hurry or are doing something that demands your attention. They can easily get misplaced if you're not careful and can result in an anxiety-inducing situation when it occurs. There are steps you can follow to get from stress and anxiety back to your keys.
You might think that keys that were traditionally used are an old fashion thing, but they're still around and are available for purchase at your auto dealership or from an automotive locksmith. These are keys that secure your door and ignition, and then start the engine once you turn. You can also make use of these keys to open your trunk or glove box. Keys made of traditional design are usually the least expensive to replace, and your local locksmith should be able to cut one while you sit.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are plastic casings that have buttons that allow you to lock and unlock the car (and in some cases, activate the alarm or open your trunk). Some of these devices include physical keys that are tucked inside. Your local automotive locksmith can reprogram fobs but only after adding an additional transponder and transmitter chip to the key.
Many of us have been guilty of omitting our keys while in a hurry or distracted. If you were in a taxi or other ride-sharing service, such as Uber or Lyft you could not have been an issue if they were left in your seat. If you lose them at home or at work, you could put your family and possessions in danger.
Try your spare key first. You may find it in your home or bag. It is worth a quick search. Also, consider retracing your steps from where you left your vehicle to the home or work place.
Another option is to run your VIN number through the key database. If your locks have been altered or rekeyed and rekeyed, running your VIN number through the key database won't create an original key that functions. This is the reason Guardian Safe & Lock recommends replacing automotive locks with keys that are changed to the original key cuts whenever it is possible.
3. Check the Door Locks
If you're experiencing difficulty getting your car started, it may be an issue with the door locks. The door locks could be locked or open by using the key inside. If auto locksmith ignition replacement have lost your car keys, you should have a backup key that was included with the vehicle. These keys are often hidden in the key fob or as a separate backup that you can use to unlock the vehicle. You can also try tools like the Slim Jim to gain entry into your vehicle without damaging the locks on your doors or ignition switch.
If the key fob works but it's not turning the ignition, this could be because the battery has failed. You'll need to replace the batteries in the keyfob, and then reprogram the device if required.
Over time keys to cars wear out and their edges may break off inside the lock or ignition cylinder. The wafers on the keys might not be fully engaged making it difficult to turn the ignition.
Another issue that is common to a car key is that it might switch off and on when it's in the ignition. This is due to the fact that the internal components are wearing out and can cause intermittent problems with the ignition switch.
When people attempt to start their car, they often grab the wrong key from their key table or ring. It can be a problem since some keys are similar and you could accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.
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 ruby alcohol. This will remove any foreign material from the surface of the key, which could prevent it from turning in the ignition or unlocking the doors.
If you're having difficulty it is recommended that you write down your VIN (vehicle identification number) before contacting locksmith. This will give you a greater chance of finding someone who can assist you with replacing your car keys. The VIN can be found 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. Contact a locksmith
It's a nightmare 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, it is best 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.
A lot of people in this type of situation will attempt to save money by calling their car dealership to make a new set of keys, but this is usually a bad idea. Most dealerships will charge you much 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. They can then make a new key for you. If you have a spare key the locksmith may only require it to decode the lock so they can create a new key that works with your vehicle. The locksmith will take away the old key and program an entirely new one to begin the vehicle.
If you own an transponder key, the locksmith will need to gain access to 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 procedure is referred to as "key fob replacement" or "all keys lost".
Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of cars today. They utilize a tiny plastic key with a computer-chip to communicate with an immobilizer. The chip could be damaged by heat, water or battery problems or any other reason. In this situation you'll need to replace the key and then re-program the vehicle's computer to accept it. A locksmith on the move who is skilled will be able to create keys for you that will function in the future.