Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do
If you lost your ignition key, it's important to find out where you may have seen it. Retrace your steps and try to recall what you were doing when you last saw the keys.
Replacing a traditional car key is simple and cost-effective. A locksmith can create an entirely new car key without the original. However, a technologically advanced key like 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 keys not to turn on the ignition. The first thing is that it may wear out. As time passes the pins within the cylinder may become worn out, stopping it from turning. This is the most common reason why people aren't in a position to start their vehicle.
Another possibility is that the key fob has a dead battery that needs to be replaced. This is a simple fix that can be done at home. Buy an additional battery for your key fob and check if it works with your car.
In the end, it could be that your ignition switch is faulty. van ignition repair is a part that supplies power to specific components after 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.
If you have an ordinary ignition key that is made of metal, it has a shaft that is fitted into a plastic head, or cylinder, in your vehicle's ignition. When you turn the key into your ignition, it presses a set of tumblers into a specific arrangement and closes an ignition circuit, which will then supply power to the starter motor in order to start the engine.
Modern cars have a new method to stop theft of cars using an electronic chip that is embedded into the key head. Keys with transponders are also referred to as transponder keys. When you insert a key that has a transponder into your ignition, it transmits an identification code to your car's antenna. This unique code will allow the computer in the engine to start the starter motor.
If your car uses transponder keys it is impossible to start it in the event that the battery for the key fob is dead. It is always a smart idea to keep a spare car key available just in case. However, most auto manufacturers have a failsafe feature to ensure that your car is started in the event that the key with the chip is lost.
2. Check the Locks
If you're in a rush or doing something else that demands your attention, it is more likely that you'll lose your car keys. They are easily lost when you're not paying attention and result in a stressful situation when it happens. There are steps you can follow to get from anxiety and panic back to your keys.
You might think that traditional keys are outdated but they're still can be purchased from your local auto dealer or an automotive locksmith. They are the standard keys that lock the door and ignition and start the car when you turn it. You can also use them to open a trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are cheapest and most common to replace. A locksmith at your local will cut you one while you sit.
Key fobs first came into use in the '90s and are made of made of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle (and in certain cases, set off the alarm or open the trunk). Some of these devices have physical keys tucked inside. Fobs can be reprogrammed by your local automotive locksmith however, only after a new transponder chip as well as the transmitter have been added to the key.
We have all been guilty of leaving our keys behind when we're in a hurry or distracted. If you were in a taxi or another ride-sharing service, such as Uber or Lyft It might not have been an issue if your keys were left on the seat. If you are unable to locate them at home or at work you could put your family and belongings in danger.
Check your spare key first. It could be in your home or bag. It's worth a quick look. Also, consider going back to where you left your vehicle to the place of work or residence.
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 result in an appropriate key. Guardian Safe & Lock recommends that the replacement locks for automotive be re-keyed according to the original key cut whenever possible.
3. Check the Door Locks
If you're experiencing difficulty getting your car started, it may be an issue with the door locks. They could be open or locked with the key inside. If you've lost your car keys, it is recommended to have a backup key that came with the car. The keys are usually stored in the key fob, or as a separate backup you can use to unlock your vehicle. You can also use a tool such as the 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, this could be due to the fact that the battery has failed. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the batteries in the key fob and reprogramme it if required.
Over time, car keys wear down and their edges may break off inside the lock or the ignition cylinder. The wafers that make up the key might not be engaged properly which makes it difficult to turn the ignition.
Another common problem with car keys 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 down and causing intermittent issues with the ignition switch.
It's not common for people to take the wrong key off their table or their key ring when they're trying to start their car. It could be a challenge because certain keys are similar and you could accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.
You can fix this issue at home with a cotton Swab that is dipped into rubbing alcohol. This will remove any foreign material off the surface of the key that could prevent it from turning in the ignition or unlocking the doors.
If you're having difficulty take a note of your VIN (vehicle identification number) before contacting locksmith. This will increase your chance of finding someone who can assist you in replacing your car keys. You can locate your VIN on your insurance card. It's also on a panel located above the driver's chair, on the engine block's back, in the trunk, or on the door jamb.
4. Call a locksmith
Being locked out of your car can be a scary situation, especially in the dark of night. If you aren't sure where your keys are, or if they have been lost or stolen you should call a locksmith.
A locksmith is an expert contractor who has specialized knowledge of locks and access. They are trained to install, remove or repair and dismantle doors as well as locks and ignition cylinders.
The majority of people in this position try to save money by calling their dealership to get a new set. This is typically not a good idea. The majority of dealerships will charge much more than other shops or car parts stores, and it could take some time to receive your keys.
You can also contact a locksmith to decode your lock in an emergency. They can then make a new key for you. The locksmith will likely only need to use your spare key to unlock the lock, and they can create a 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 an transponder key, the locksmith will need to gain access to your vehicle, then make use of a special device to re-program the car's computer to connect with the new key. This process is called "key fob replacement" or "all keys lost".
Most cars today include transponder keys that utilize tiny plastic heads with a computer chip to communicate with the car's immobilizer. The chip inside the key may be damaged by water, heat battery issues, or other factors that cause it to stop working properly. In this situation, you'll need to replace the key and then re-program the vehicle's computer to accept it. A mobile locksmith who is skilled will be able to create an appropriate key that will function in the future.