How Much Can Lost Ignition Key Experts Make? Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do

It is important to check all the places where you might have seen your ignition key. Retrace your steps and try to recall what you were doing last time you were able to remember seeing the keys.

Replacing a traditional car key is simple and inexpensive. Locksmiths can create an entirely new car key without the original. A key that is more advanced in technology, such as a transponder, smart key or switchblade, will require assistance at the roadside.

1. Check the ignition

There are several reasons why your car key won't turn in the ignition. It could be due to worn. As time passes the pins inside the cylinder can become worn out, stopping it from turning. This is the most common reason for people not being in a position to start their vehicle.


A dead battery inside the key fob might need to be replaced. This is a straightforward fix that can be completed at home. Simply buy car ignition lock for your key fob and see whether 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 a part that provides power to certain components when you insert your car keys into the ignition cylinder. It is important to note that the ignition switch does not start the car; it is only a means for the engine to start.

If you own an ignition key that is standard that is made of metal, it has a shaft that is fitted into a head made of plastic, or cylinder, inside the ignition of your vehicle. When you turn the ignition key, it presses tumblers in a specific arrangement and closes the ignition circuit. This will then supply the starter motor with power to allow the engine to start.

Modern cars use an electronic chip that is embedded inside the head of the key to guard against theft of cars. Keys with transponders are also referred to as transponder keys. When you insert a key with transponder inside your ignition, it transmits an identification code to the car's antenna. This unique code will trigger the engine's computer, allowing the starter motor to turn over.

If your car is equipped with a transponder key it is impossible to start it if the key fob battery is dead. It is always a good idea to have a spare car key on hand just in case. However, the majority of auto makers have a failsafe feature to ensure that your car is started if the key with the chip is lost.

2. Check the Locks

When you are in a hurry or doing something else that demands your attention, it is more likely that you'll lose your car keys. If you're not careful, they are easily lost which can lead to a stressful situation. There are steps you can take to get from frustration and panic back to your keys.

You may think that traditional keys are obsolete, but they are still available from your local auto dealer or automotive locksmith. They are the standard keys that lock your ignition and door, and start the engine when turned. They can also be used to unlock a trunk or glove box. Traditional keys are generally the most affordable to replace and your locksmith should be able to cut 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, even activate the alarm or open your trunk). Some of these devices have physical keys tucked inside. Fobs can be reprogrammed by your local locksmith however only after a new transponder chip and the transmitter have been added to the key.

Many of us have been guilty of forgetting our keys when in a hurry or distracted. It might not be an issue if you left keys in your car in a subway, taxi, bus or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. If you do lose them at home or at work, you could be putting your belongings and your family members in danger.

Try your spare key first. You may find it in your bag or house. It's worth a quick search. Consider retracing the steps 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 already been changed or rekeyed then running your VIN through the key database won't produce keys that work. This is the reason Guardian Safe & Lock recommends getting replacement automotive locks replaced with keys that match the original cuts whenever possible.

3. Check the Door Locks

You could have problems with your door locks if you are having trouble getting your car started. The door locks could be locked or open by using the key inside. If you lose your car keys, there should be a backup key that came along with the vehicle. The keys are located in the key fob, or as a backup you can use to unlock your vehicle. You can also try tools such as a Slim Jim to gain entry into your car without causing damage to the door locks or the ignition switch.

If the key fob works, but it won't turn the ignition, it could be due to the fact that the battery has failed. It is necessary to replace the batteries in the keyfob and reprogramme the device if needed.

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

A car key can also occasionally turn off or on while in the ignition. This is because the internal components are wearing out and causing intermittent issues with the ignition switch.

When people are trying to start their car, they typically take the wrong key from their key ring or table. This could be a problem since some keys are similar and you could accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.

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

If you're still having issues, write down your VIN number (vehicle ID number) before you call a locksmith. This will increase the likelihood of locating someone to replace your car keys. You can find your VIN on your insurance card. It's also on a panel above the driver's seat on the engine block's back, in the trunk, or on the door jamb.

4. Call a Locksmith

Being locked out of your car can be a scary situation, especially in the dark of night. If you aren't sure where your keys are, or if they have been lost or stolen you should call a locksmith.

A locksmith is a professional contractor who is skilled in everything related to locks and access control. They are trained in the installation of, removal, repair, and disassembly of locks, ignition cylinders and doors.

The majority of people in this situation try to save money and call their dealership to get the new set. This is usually a bad decision. Most dealerships charge a lot more than other car parts shops or shops, and it can take a long time to get the keys you need.

You can find locksmiths in times of need and have them unlock your lock or make the new one for you. If you have a spare key, the locksmith may only require it to decode the lock so they can make a new key that can work with your vehicle. The locksmith will wipe the old key from the car system, meaning it won't be able to start until the new key is programmed to work with it.

The locksmith must access your vehicle to program the computer of the car to accept the new key. This is a process called "all key lost" or "key fob replacement".

Transponder keys are found in most cars today. They utilize a tiny plastic key that has a computer chip to communicate with an immobilizer. The chip could be damaged by heat, water or battery problems or any other cause. If this happens, you'll have to replace the entire key and the vehicle's computer has to be changed to accept it. A good mobile locksmith will be able to do this for you, and also create keys that work well in the future.