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Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do
If you've lost the ignition key, it's important to look for all places you might have seen it. Retrace your steps and try to remember what you were doing when you last saw the keys.
Replacing an old-fashioned car key is simple and affordable. Locksmiths can create a new key right away without the original. However, a technologically advanced key such as a transponder, switchblade, or smart key will require assistance from a roadside to replace.
1. Check the ignition
There are several factors that could cause your car key to not to turn the ignition. The first is that it may be worn. As time passes the pins within the cylinder can become worn out, stopping it from turning. This is the primary reason why people are unable to start their car.
A dead battery on the key fob could require replacement. If this is the case, it's a simple fix and can be accomplished at home. Simply buy an additional battery for your key fob, and test whether it works in your car.
In the end, it could be that your ignition switch is defective. The ignition switch is an electronic component that supplies power to various components when you insert your car key into the ignition cylinder. The ignition switch is not the one that starts the car; it is only the one that allows the engine to start.
If you own an ordinary ignition key that is made of metal, it has a shaft that is placed into a plastic head or cylinder, within the mobile ignition lock repair services of your vehicle. When you turn your ignition key, it presses tumblers in a specific arrangement and closes the ignition circuit. Then, it will supply the starter motor with power to allow the engine to begin.
Modern cars use an electronic chip that is embedded in the key head to prevent car theft. These keys are often called transponder keys. When you place a key with a transponder into the ignition, it sends an identification code to the car's antenna ring. This unique code will activate the engine's computer and allow the starter motor to turn over.
If your car is equipped with transponder technology, you will not be in a position to start it once the battery in the key fob dies. This is why it's always recommended to keep an extra key on hand just in the event of a problem! However, many auto manufacturers build in a failsafe to ensure that your car is going if the key that contains the chip is lost.
2. Check the Locks
Car keys are usually lost when you're in a rush or performing something that requires your attention. If you're not careful, they could easily get lost which can lead to an unsettling situation. There are steps you can take to get from frustration and panic back to your keys.
You might think traditional keys are outdated, but they are still available at your local auto dealer or automotive locksmith. They are the standard keys that lock the ignition and door and start the car when turned. You can also use them to unlock a trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are most affordable and easy to replace. Your local locksmith can cut you one while you sit.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are plastic casings that have buttons to lock and unlock the car (and, in some cases, activate the alarm or open your trunk). Some of these devices come with physical keys that are tucked inside. Fobs can be reprogrammed by your local automotive locksmith however, only after a new transponder chip and the transmitter have been added to the key.
We've all made the mistake of leaving our keys behind when we're in a hurry or distracted. If you were in a taxi or a ride-sharing services, like Uber or Lyft you could not have been an problem if the keys were left in your seat. If you lose them at home or at work you could put your family and possessions in danger.
Check your spare key first. You might find it in your house or bag. It's worth a quick search. You might want to retrace the steps you took from the point you parked your vehicle to your workplace or home.
You can also run your VIN through the key database. If your locks have been rekeyed or replaced, running your VIN through the key database won't result in keys that work. This is why Guardian Safe & Lock recommends getting replacement automotive locks changed to the original key cuts whenever possible.
3. Check the Door Locks
There could be an issue with your door locks if have trouble starting your vehicle. They may be open or locked with the key inside. If you lose your car keys, there should be a spare key that was included with the vehicle. The keys are located in the key fob, or as a backup you can use to open your vehicle. You could also use a tool like a Slim Jim in order to gain access to your vehicle without causing damage the ignition switch or door locks.
If the key fob is functioning, but it won't turn the ignition, this could be because the battery has died. You'll need to replace batteries in the keyfob and reprogramme the device if needed.
Over time keys to cars wear out and their edges may break off in the lock or the ignition cylinder. The wafers that make up the key might not be fully engaged making it difficult to turn the ignition.
The car key can occasionally turn off or on when it is 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 try to start their car, they typically pick the wrong key from their key ring or table. This can lead to problems since certain keys look similar and you could have accidentally inserted the wrong key into the ignition key cylinder.
It is possible to fix ignition switch this issue at home using a cotton Swab that is dipped into ruby alcohol. This will remove any foreign materials from the surface of your key that could stop it from turning the ignition on or unlocking doors.
If you're still having trouble, you should write down your VIN (vehicle identification number) before contacting a locksmith. This will give you a better 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, in the trunk, or on the door jamb.
4. Contact an expert locksmith
It's terrifying to be locked out of your vehicle particularly at night. If you aren't sure where your keys went, or if your keys are lost or stolen the best thing to do is to call a locksmith to come unlock your door.
Locksmiths are skilled contractor with extensive knowledge of locks and access. They are educated in the installation of, removal, repair, and disassembly of locks ignition cylinders, and doors.
A lot of people in this kind of situation will attempt to save money by calling their car dealership to create an entirely new set of keys however this is generally an unwise choice. Dealerships typically charge more than other car ignition locked parts shops or shops, and it can take an extended time to obtain the keys you need.
Luckily, you can also locate locksmiths in times of need and have them decode your lock or create an entirely new key for you. The locksmith will likely only require your spare key to unlock the lock, and they can create a brand new key for your vehicle. The locksmith will take away the old key and program the new one to start the vehicle.
The locksmith will need to access your vehicle to program the computer of the car ignition lock to accept the new key. This is a process called "all key lost" or "key fob replacement".
The majority of cars today come with transponder keys, which use tiny plastic heads with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer of the car. The chip in the key can be damaged by heat, water, battery problems, or other factors that cause it stop working properly. In this instance, you'll need to replace the key and then re-program the vehicle's computer to accept it. A reputable locksmith on the move will be able to accomplish this for you and make keys that work well in the future.
