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Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do

If you've lost the ignition key, it's vital to check all the places you may have seen it. Retrace your steps and try to recall what you were doing when you last saw the keys.

Replacing a car key is easy and inexpensive. Locksmiths can make a new key right away without the original. A key that is more advanced in technology like transponder, smart keys or switchblade will require roadside assistance.

1. Check the ignition

There are many reasons your car key won't turn in the ignition. mobile ignition lock repair services is that it might wear out. As time passes the pins within the cylinder can be worn out, preventing it from turning. This is the main reason why people aren't able to start their cars.

Another possibility is that the key fob is an inoperative battery and requires to be replaced. This is a straightforward fix that can be completed at home. Purchase a new key fob battery and test it to see if it is compatible with your car.

In the end, it could be that your ignition switch is faulty. The ignition switch is an electrical component that provides power to specific components when you insert your car key into the ignition cylinder. It is important to remember that the ignition switch will not start the car; it is only a means for the engine to start.

If you own an ordinary ignition key, it has a metal shaft that is fitted into a head made of plastic, or cylinder, in the ignition of your vehicle. When you turn the ignition key, it presses tumblers into a precise arrangement, and then shuts off the ignition circuit. Then, it will supply power to the starter motor for the engine to start.

Modern cars use a different system to protect against theft of cars, which uses an electronic chip that is embedded into the head of the key. They are also referred to as transponder key. When you insert a lock with a transponder in your ignition, it sends an identification code to your car's antenna. This unique code will activate the engine's computer and allow the starter motor to turn.

If your car is equipped with a transponder key, there is no way to start it when the battery of the key fob fails. This is why it's always recommended to keep an extra key on hand, just in case! Many automakers have a failsafe that will aid you in starting your car in the event that the chip-encoded key is lost.

2. Check the Locks

Car keys are typically lost when you're in a rush or are doing something that demands your attention. They can be easily lost when you're not paying attention and result in a stressful situation when it occurs. Fortunately, there are ways to go from frustration and panic to locating your keys once more.

You might think that traditional keys are a thing of the past but they're actually available to purchase from your local auto dealer or an automotive locksmith. These are keys that secure your ignition and door, and then start the engine once you turn. You can also use them to open a trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are most affordable and easiest to replace. The locksmith in your neighborhood will cut you one while you wait.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are plastic casings that include buttons to lock and unlock the car (and, in some cases, to activate the alarm or open your trunk). Some of these devices have physical keys that are tucked inside. Your local automotive locksmith can reprogram fobs, but only after adding the new transponder and transmitter chip to the key.

Many of us have been guilty of omitting our keys while stressed or distracted. It might not be important when you forgot keys in your seat when you took an Uber, cab or bus, or even a ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. If you are unable to locate them at home or at work, you could be putting your belongings and your family in danger.





Start by looking for your spare key. It could be in your home or bag. It's worth a quick look. You might want to retrace the steps you took from the point you parked your vehicle until your home or workplace.

You can also run your VIN through the key database. If your locks have been changed or rekeyed or rekeyed, running your VIN number through the key database will not generate an original key that functions. Guardian Safe & Lock recommends that new automotive locks be re-keyed according to the original key cut as often as is feasible.

3. Check the door locks

There could be an issue with your door locks if you are having trouble starting your vehicle. The door locks could be locked or unlocked with the key inside. If you've lost your car keys, it is recommended to have a spare backup key that came with your vehicle. Keys can be found in the key fob or as a backup you can use to open your vehicle. You can also use a device like the 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. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the batteries inside the key fob and re-programme it if needed.

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

The car key can sometimes turn on or off 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 from their key rings when trying to start their car. It can be a problem since some keys are similar, and you may accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.

You can fix this problem at home with a simple cotton Swab that is dipped into ruby alcohol. This will remove any foreign substances off the surface of your key that could prevent it from turning the ignition or unlocking doors.

If you're having difficulty, you should write down your VIN (vehicle identification number) before contacting a locksmith. This will increase the likelihood of finding someone to replace your car key. Your VIN is usually found on your insurance card however, it's also found in a few other places on the vehicle itself, including on a panel just above the driver's seat or on the back of the engine block, in the trunk, or the door jamb and on the frame between the carburetor and windshield washer.

4. Call a Locksmith

It's scary to be locked out of your car especially at night. If you don't know where your keys are, or if they've been lost or stolen it is recommended to contact a locksmith.

Locksmiths are professional contractor with specialized knowledge in all things related to locks and access control. They are certified to install, uninstall or repair and dismantle doors, locks, and ignition cylinders.

Most people who find themselves in this position try to save money by calling their dealership to get an upgrade. This is typically a bad decision. Most dealerships will charge you more than other shops or car parts stores, and it might take some time to receive your keys.

Luckily, you can also locate locksmiths in the event of an emergency and have them decode your lock or design the new one for you. The locksmith will probably require your spare key to decode the lock, which means they can create a new key for your car. The locksmith will take away the old key and then program a new one to start the vehicle.

The locksmith must enter your vehicle in order to reprogram the computer of the car to accept the new key. This is known as "key fob replacement" or "all keys lost".

Most cars today have transponder keys that use a small plastic head with a computer chip to communicate with the immobilizer of the car. The chip inside the key may be damaged by water, heat battery issues, or other reasons that make it not function properly. In this situation, you'll need to replace the key and re-program the car's computer to accept it. A reputable mobile locksmith can do this for you and create keys that work well in the future.