Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do
It is important to check every place you may have seen your ignition key. Follow your steps and try to remember 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 an entirely new car key without the original. However, a technologically advanced key like the switchblade, transponder or smart key will require assistance from a roadside to replace.
1. Check the ignition
There are a few different factors that could cause your car key to not to turn in the ignition. The first thing is that it could be worn out. Over time the pins within the cylinder can wear down and prevent it from turning. This is the primary reason why people are unable to start their car.
Another possibility is that the key fob is an inoperative battery and requires to be replaced. This is a simple fix that you can do at your home. Purchase a new key fob battery and test it to see if it is compatible with your car.
It could be that your ignition switch is suffering from an issue. The ignition switch is an electronic component that supplies power to certain components when you insert your car keys into the ignition cylinder. The ignition switch isn't the one that actually starts the car; it is only the one that allows the engine to start.
If you have a standard ignition key with a metal shaft that is fitted into a plastic head or cylinder, in your vehicle's ignition. When you turn the ignition key, it forces tumblers into an exact arrangement, and then shuts off the circuit for ignition. This will then supply power to the starter motor so that the engine can begin.
Modern cars employ a different method to stop theft of cars using an electronic chip embedded in the key head. Keys with transponders are commonly referred to as transponder keys. When you insert a lock that has a transponder in the ignition, it transmits an identification code to the car's antenna ring. This unique code lets the computer of the engine to turn on the starter motor.
If your car has transponder keys, there is no way to start it in the event that the battery for the key fob is dead. It is always a good idea to have an extra car key available just in case. However, most auto manufacturers 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 hurry or are doing something that demands your attention. They can be easily lost in the event of a mishap and result in stress when it happens. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid panic and stress to find your keys again.
You may think that keys that were traditionally used are an old fashion thing, but they're still are available for purchase at your auto dealership or from an automotive locksmith. They are the standard keys that lock the ignition and door and then start the car when turned. They can also be used to unlock a trunk or glove box. Traditional keys are typically the least expensive to replace and your local locksmith will be able to cut one while you sit.
Key fobs were introduced in the early 1990s, and they are made of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle (and in certain cases they can set off the alarm or open the trunk). Some of these devices have physical keys. The locksmith at your local auto shop can reprogramme fobs, but only after adding the new transponder and transmitter chip to the key.
Many of us have had the misfortune of not having our keys when we are in a rush or distracted. If you were in a taxi or another ride-sharing service, such as Uber or Lyft, it could not have been an issue if your keys were left in your seat. If you lose them at home, or at work, you may be putting your belongings and your family's safety at risk.
If you have an extra key, try that first. It might be hidden somewhere in your house or your bag, so it's worth an initial search. Think about retracing the steps that you took from the place you parked your car to your workplace or home.
You can also run your VIN through the key database. If your locks have been rekeyed or changed, running your VIN through the key database won't result in a key that will work. 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
There could be problems with your door locks if you have trouble starting your vehicle. The door locks may be locked or unlocked by using the key inside. If you have lost your car keys, you should have a backup key that was included with the vehicle. The keys are located in the key fob or as backup keys that you can use to open your vehicle. You could also use a tool such as a Slim Jim in order to gain access to your vehicle without causing damage the ignition switch or door locks.
The battery might be dead if the key fob works but isn't able to turn on the ignition. You'll need to replace batteries in the keyfob and reprogram the device, if necessary.
Over time, car keys wear down and their edges can break in the lock or ignition cylinder. The wafers on the key may not be properly engaged, making it difficult to turn the ignition.
Another common issue with car keys is that it may switch off and on when it's in the ignition. The internal components of the ignition switch are wearing out, causing intermittent problems.
It's not common for people to pick the wrong key off their table or from their key ring when they're trying to start their car. It can be a problem because some keys are very alike and you might accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.
It is possible to fix this issue at home using a cotton swab dipped in ruby alcohol. This will remove any foreign materials from the surface of your key that may stop it from turning the ignition or unlocking doors.
If you still have trouble make a note of your VIN number (vehicle ID number) before you call a locksmith. This will give you a greater chance of finding someone who can assist you in replacing your car keys. You can find your VIN on your insurance card. It's also on a piece of paper above the driver's seat on the engine block's back or in the trunk or on the door jamb.
4. Contact a locksmith
Being locked out of your car is terrifying, especially on a dark night. If you aren't sure the location of your keys, or if your key is lost or stolen the best thing you can do is to call a locksmith to come unlock your door.
ignition lock repair near me is a skilled contractor who has specialized skills in everything related to locks and access to. They are educated in the installation as well as the removal, repair and disassembly of locks, ignition cylinders and doors.
The majority of people in this kind of situation attempt to save money and then call their dealership to get a new set. This is usually an unwise choice. The majority of dealerships will charge much more than other shops or car parts stores, and it might take a while to get your keys.
You can also contact a locksmith to decode your lock in case of emergency. They can then make a new key for you. If you have a spare key the locksmith will likely need to use it to decode the lock so they can create a new key that can work with your vehicle. The locksmith will remove the old key and then program the new one to start the vehicle.
If you have transponder keys the locksmith will require to gain access into your vehicle, then employ a specific device to reprogram your car's computer to be able to connect with the new key. This is a procedure known as "all key lost" or "key fob replacement".
Most cars today come with transponder keys, which use small heads of plastic that have an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer of the car. The chip in the key may be damaged by water, heat battery issues, or other reasons that make it not function properly. In this case, you'll need to replace the key and reprogram the car's computer to accept it. A good locksmith mobile will be able to do this for you and create an appropriate key that will function well in the future.