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 a new key right away without the original. A key that is more advanced in technology like a transponder, smart key or switchblade will require assistance at the roadside.

1. Check the Ignition

There are several reasons that could cause your car keys not to turn on the ignition. The first reason is that it could be worn out. Over time, the pins inside of the cylinder may wear out, which will prevent it from turning. This is the most common reason why people are unable to start their cars.

Another possibility is that the key fob has a dead battery that needs to be replaced. If this is the case, it's a simple fix and can be done at home. Simply buy new batteries for your key fob and see if it works in your car.

In the end, it could be that the ignition switch you are using is not working. The ignition switch is an element that supplies power to specific components when you insert your car key into the ignition cylinder. The ignition switch is not the one that actually starts the car, it is only the one that allows the engine to start.

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

Modern cars use a different 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 key. When you insert a lock with a transponder inside your ignition, it transmits an identification code to the car's antenna. This unique code will allow the computer of the engine to turn on the starter motor.

If your car has a transponder key it is impossible to start it when the battery of the key fob is dead. It is always a smart idea to have a spare car key in your possession, just in case. Most auto manufacturers offer a failsafe to help you start your car in the event that the key with a 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 easily get misplaced in the event of a mishap and result in a stressful situation when it happens. Fortunately, there are ways you can go from frustration and panic to finding your keys again.

You may think that keys that were traditionally used are a thing of the past but they're still available to purchase from your auto dealership or from an automotive locksmith. They are the standard keys that lock your ignition and door, and start the engine when turned. You can also use them to open a trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are the most affordable and easiest to replace. Your local locksmith will cut you one while you wait.

Key fobs were introduced in the '90s, and they are plastic casings with buttons that lock and unlock your car (and in some cases, set off the alarm or open the trunk). Some of these devices come with physical keys tucked inside. The locksmith at your local auto shop can reprogramme fobs, but only after adding an additional transponder and transmitter chip to the key.

Most of us have been guilty of omitting our keys when we are in a rush or distracted. It's not an issue even if you put keys in your seat in an Uber, cab or bus, or even a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. However, if you lose them at home, or at work, you may be putting your belongings and your family in danger.

If you have a spare key, take it out first. It might be hidden somewhere in your home or bag, so it's worth doing a quick search. You might want to retrace the steps you took from where you parked your vehicle until your home or workplace.

Another alternative is to run your VIN number through the key database. If your locks have been modified or replaced, running your VIN number through the key database will not create a new key that works. Guardian Safe & Lock recommends that replacement automotive locks be re-keyed in accordance with the original key cut whenever possible.

3. Check the door locks

You could have problems with your door locks if are having difficulty getting your vehicle started. The door locks might be locked or opened with the key inside. If you lose your car keys, there should be a backup key that was included with the vehicle. These keys are often stored in the key fob, or as a separate backup you can use to unlock the vehicle. You could also try tools such as the Slim Jim to gain entry into your vehicle without causing damage to the door locks or ignition switch.

If the key fob is working but it's not turning the ignition, it could be due to the fact that the battery is dead. You'll need to replace the batteries in the keyfob and reprogram the device if required.

Over time, the edges of car keys may wear away and break off in the ignition cylinder or lock. This can make it difficult to turn the ignition because the wafers in the key aren't engaged properly.

A car key can also occasionally turn off or on when in the ignition. The internal components of the ignition switch are deteriorating, causing intermittent issues.

It's not common for people to grab the wrong key from their table or ring while trying to start their car. This can lead to problems since certain keys look similar and you might be accidentally inserting the wrong key into the ignition cylinder.

It is possible to fix this issue at home using a cotton Swab that is dipped into rubbing alcohol. This will remove any foreign matter from the surface of the key that could stop it from turning the ignition or unlocking the doors.

If you are still having trouble, write down your VIN number (vehicle ID number) before you call a locksmith. This will give you a greater chance of finding someone who can help you replace your car keys. You can find your VIN on your insurance card. It's also on a panel located above the driver's seat on the engine block's back and in the trunk or on the door jamb.

4. Contact a locksmith

Being locked out of your car is an extremely stressful situation, particularly on a dark night. If you don't know where your keys went, or if you think your key has been lost or stolen the best thing to do is contact locksmiths to unlock your door.

A locksmith is a professional contractor who has specialized skills in everything related to locks and entry access. They are certified to install, remove, fix and take apart doors locks, locks, and ignition cylinders.

A lot of people in this type of situation try to save money by calling their dealership to get new keys but this is usually a bad idea. Dealerships typically charge more than other car ignition lock parts shops or shops, and it could take an extended time to obtain the keys you need.

Luckily, you can also find locksmiths in the event of an emergency and ask them to unlock your lock or make a new one for you. The locksmith will most likely require your spare key to unlock the lock, so they can make a new key for your vehicle. The locksmith will take away the old key and then program the new one to start the vehicle.

If you have an transponder key the locksmith will require to gain entry into your vehicle, then use a special device to re-program the computer in your car to communicate with the new key. This procedure is referred to as "key fob replacement" or "all keys lost".

Transponder keys are used in most cars nowadays. They are a small plastic key that contains a computer chip to communicate with an immobilizer. The chip in the key may be damaged by water, heat and battery problems, as well as other reasons that make it malfunction. In this instance, you'll need to replace the key and reprogram the vehicle's computer to accept it. A mobile locksmith who is experienced can create an appropriate key that will work in the future.