Lost Ignition Key (
Botdb.Win)? Here's What to Do
It is important to check every place you might have seen your ignition key. Follow your steps and try to remember what you were doing the last time you recall seeing 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, such as a transponder, switchblade, or smart key will require roadside assistance to replace.
1. Check the ignition
There are a few different factors that could cause your car key to not to turn the ignition. The first thing is that it could be worn out. Over time the pins within the cylinder may be worn out, preventing it from turning. This is the main reason for people not being capable of starting their car.
A dead battery inside the key fob might need to be replaced. If this is the case, it's an easy fix that can be done at home. Buy a new key fob battery and check if it works with your car.
It could be that your ignition switch has an issue. The ignition switch is an electrical device that supplies power to certain components when you insert your car key into the ignition cylinder. The ignition switch isn't the one that will start the car; it's only the one that allows the engine to start.
When you turn the ignition key it forces tumblers into a precise arrangement and then closes an ignition circuit. When you turn the key into your ignition, it presses the tumblers in a precise order and shuts off an ignition circuit that will then provide power to the starter motor to start the engine.
Modern cars use an electronic chip inside the head of the key to guard against theft of cars. These keys are often referred to as transponder keys. When you insert a lock equipped with a transponder inside the ignition, it sends an identification code to the car's antenna ring. This unique code can let 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 dies. It's always a good idea to have a spare car key in your possession, just in case. Most
auto ignition key replacement manufacturers have a failsafe that will help you start your car if 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. If you're not careful they can easily be misplaced, leading to an unsettling situation. Fortunately, there are ways you can avoid panic and stress to locating your keys once more.
You might think traditional keys are outdated however, they are available at your local auto dealer or locksmith. These are keys that secure the door and ignition and allow the car to start when turned. You can also use them to open a trunk or glove box. Keys made of traditional design are usually the least expensive to replace, and your local locksmith will be able to cut one while you are waiting.
Key fobs were introduced in the '90s, and they are plastic casings that have buttons that can lock and unlock your car (and in some cases, set off the alarm or open the trunk). Some of these devices come with keys that are actually made. Your local automotive locksmith can reprogram fobs but only after adding a new transmitter and transponder chip to the key.
We've all made the mistake of putting our keys in the wrong place when we're in a hurry or distracted. If you were in a taxi or other ride-sharing service such as 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 may put your possessions and your family's safety at risk.
If you have a spare key, test it first. You may find it in your house or bag. It is worth a quick look. Also, think about returning to the place you left the vehicle to get to your home or work place.
You can also run your VIN through the key database. However, if your locks have been modified or changed, 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 according to the original key cut as often as is feasible.
3. Check the Door Locks
If you're experiencing difficulty starting your car, there could be a problem with the door locks. The door locks might be locked or opened by using the key inside. If you lose your car keys there should be a spare key that came along with the vehicle. These keys are often kept in the key fob, or as a separate backup you can use to open the vehicle. You can also use a tool like a Slim Jim in order to gain access to your vehicle without damaging the ignition switch or door locks.
If the key fob is working, but it won't turn the ignition, it could be because the battery has died. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the batteries on the key fob and re-programme it if needed.
Over time keys for cars wear down and their edges can break in the lock or ignition cylinder. This could make it difficult to start the ignition since the wafers in the key aren't engaged properly.
Another common problem with the car key is that it might switch off and on when it's in the ignition. The internal components of the ignition switch are deteriorating, causing intermittent issues.
It's not uncommon for people to pick the wrong key off their table or their key ring while trying to start the car. This could cause problems as certain keys look similar and you could be accidentally inserting the wrong key into the ignition key cylinder.
You can fix this problem at home using a cotton swab that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol. This will remove any foreign material off the surface of the key, which could stop it from turning the ignition or unlocking the doors.
If you're having difficulty, you should write down your VIN (vehicle identification number) before contacting an locksmith. This increases the chances of finding someone who can replace your car key. You can locate 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, in the trunk, or on the door jamb.
4. Contact an expert locksmith
Being locked out of your car is a scary situation, especially in the dark of night. If you don't know where your keys went, or if your keys are lost or stolen the best thing to do is to call locksmiths to unlock your door.
Locksmiths are professional contractor with specialized knowledge in everything related to locks and entry access. They are certified to install, uninstall, fix and take apart doors locks, locks, and ignition cylinders.
A lot of people in this kind of situation try to save money by calling their car dealership to get a new set of keys but this is usually not a good idea. The majority of dealerships will charge more than other shops or parts stores, and it could take a while to obtain your keys.
Luckily, you can also find a locksmith in an emergency and ask them to decode your lock or design the new one for you. If you have a spare key the locksmith will likely require it to decode the lock so that they can make a new key that works with your vehicle. The locksmith will take away the old key and then program an entirely new one to begin the vehicle.
The locksmith will need to enter your vehicle to reprogram the computer of the car to accept the new key. This is a procedure known as "all key lost" or "key fob replacement".
Today, most cars come with transponder keys, which use a small plastic head with 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 factors that cause it to stop working properly.