Overcoming the unforeseen hurdle of starting a vehicle without a key demands resourcefulness and innovation.
However, a few methods can solve this problem, like using a screwdriver, hot wiring, and a red coil. These options are great for parents and travelers who can’t find their keys.
Imagine being stuck with a car and having no access to its key. If this has happened to you, you are not the only one because estimates indicate that 20 million people lose their car and house keys annually.
Statistics also show that Americans spend over $2.7 billion annually on replacing lost car keys.
Amidst the chaos, your keys become a distant memory, and a good day turns sour. But fear not, for the absence of your keys doesn’t have to bring life to a standstill. I have a plan for you when you need to start your car without a key.
While attempting to start a car without a key may involve techniques such as hot wiring or bypassing the ignition switch through wiring, remember that incorrect execution can lead to vehicle damage or even a fire.
If you’re uncertain about these methods, contacting a mechanic or roadside assistance can be prudent.
Understanding Keyless Entry and Ignition Systems
Before delving into solutions, it’s crucial to understand how keyless entry and ignition systems work. These systems rely on a sophisticated interplay of electronic components, radio frequencies, and security protocols.
The core of a keyless system is the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE), or the key fob. This device transmits a unique radio frequency signal to the car’s receiver.
When the car recognizes the signal, it unlocks the doors. Similarly, the key fob communicates with the car’s immobilizer system.
The immobilizer is an electronic security device that prevents the engine from starting unless the correct transponder code is received.
In a keyless system, this code is transmitted wirelessly from the key fob to the car’s engine control unit (ECU). If the code matches, the ECU allows the engine to start.
Modern keyless systems also incorporate features like push-button start, which eliminates the need for a traditional ignition key.
These systems usually require the key fob to be present inside the car for the engine to start. The presence is detected through low-frequency radio signals.
Types of Car Key
Car keys have been developed severally through the journey of automotive development, making them more practical and more secure.
They also come in a variety giving the driver freedom to choose their desired key type. The idea of securing the car with a key started with the cars’ invention to minimize vehicle robbery.
#1. Traditional Key.
It all started with a traditional key, which is more common to the older models. It is a piece of metal with a certain shape cut.
They do not have any encoding or security encryption. This makes traditional keys easy to be copied, thus providing very low security to the vehicle.
#2. Remote-Controlled Traditional Key.
After using the traditional way of accessing vehicles for years, another way of people accessing their vehicles by unlocking the doors from a distance using the remote control was developed. These remote controls use infrared signals to enable/disable the alarm system.
#3. Transponder Key (Chip Key).
Starting from 90’s the need for a more secure way to access the car increased, leading to the invention of transponder keys. It resembles a traditional key but has a built-in signal-emitting chip, which combines with the ignition coil’s receiver.
These two parts, the transmitter in the key and the receiver in the car, have a similar code transmitted every time you need to access or turn the car on. If the car’s code is the same as that of the key, the ECU will turn on the vehicle, but if otherwise, the car will not startup.
#4. Rolling Codes Transponder Key (Chip Key).
These are the advanced transponder keys. These keys generate a new code every time the user press the unlock button or tries to run the key into the ignition.
This gives the vehicle more secure because no one can predict the code that the key will generate, and thus it cannot be copied in any way. On top of it all, you cannot start a car without a key chip.
#5. Smart Key (Keyless Start).
In 1998, Mercedes-Benz introduced the new S Class with a smart key feature, which was a breakthrough in the development of car keys.
Smart keys were incented to make the driver more comfortable. When using the smart key, there is no need to take it out of your pocket.
The car unlocks automatically when it senses the presence of the key around. When the driver gets near the car, all he is required to do is press a button in the door handle.
The car will unlock, and the immobilizer deactivates. More settings will be applied, such as chair settings, AC activating, and many more options depending on the car model.
When turning on the vehicle, the driver doesn’t need to take the key out of his pocket. To start the vehicle, press the start engine button while the key is in the car.
#6. Digital Key.
In 2020, BMW introduced the digital key technology. The digital key depends on your mobile phone to lock, unlock, and start/stop the engine.
You can share the scar key with your trusted persons using the BMW smartphone app. This feature is based on NFC technology.
Situations when you may need to start a car without the key
- Lost key: If your key is lost and you can’t wait for a replacement, these methods can be handy for moving your vehicle.
- Broken ignition switch: When your key won’t turn or the car won’t start even with the key, a broken ignition switch might need bypassing to initiate the vehicle.
- Broken key: If your key has broken off in the ignition or suffered damage, starting the car might require bypassing the ignition system.
- Dead smart key: Cars with keyless or smart key systems may encounter difficulties if the key’s battery dies.
How to Start a Car Without a Key?
Modern car models use an immobilizer, and in this case, you must have the original key near the ignition switch.
If the immobilizer is not unlocked by the transponder in the key, it will not start no matter what you do, and therefore these techniques will not work. They work well with older cars without an immobilizer, though.
#1. Screwdriver/Hammer.
With the use of a screwdriver and hammer or a screwdriver and drill, you can get the engine running, but you must be careful. If you make a wrong move, you could damage the car’s ignition switch.
This common technique allows you to disable the lock pins. On the downside, it will damage the key mechanism, requiring the need to get it replaced.
You need to gain access to where the inner flaps begin in the ignition. This requires you to get into the keyhole about 2/3 inches. Use your drill or hammer to access the area.
Once you have access, you can insert the screwdriver head and try to turn the ignition. If there’s no screwdriver handy, any metal piece that’s flat might work.
#2. Hotwire Engine.
You can’t hotwire a newer car, but it should work with most models to the 1990s. This method helps you bypass the ignition system.
Remove the steering wheel column plastic cover. You will find screws on either side. This should provide you access to the car’s ignition system.
Check a wiring diagram to be sure of the wirings before you try to hotwire it, though. Faulty wirings can destroy electric components completely.
Put on insulated or protective gloves before moving forward. Battery wires are often going to be red, while brown or yellow wires are ignition-related.
Cut the end of the battery wires and the end of the power wires. If you connect the battery wire end to the power wire by twisting them, the engine should start.
#3. Red Coil Wire.
If you are well-versed in the mechanics of the car, you might be able to use the red coil wire technique on your old car.
To protect yourself, you want to get the wiring diagram for your car, as every model could be different. You don’t want to put power to anything that could be damaged.
Go under the car’s hood to find the red coil wire. Use a jump starter cable to connect the positive battery terminal to the red coil wire. It’s also called the positive side of the coil.
With this technique, you are going to apply 12 volts of power to the coil directly. You need to get into the steering wheel to locate the starter solenoid wire.
Connect this to the positive battery terminal. Once power is applied to the solenoid wire, the engine should crank.
Starting A Keyless Car Without A Fob
Even keyless cars can be started without a fob using hot wiring or the red coil method. Additionally, hidden ignition switches can exist in steering columns, even for keyless vehicles:
- Examine the steering column for circular caps or recessed covers, indicating a hidden ignition switch. Pry open the cap using a screwdriver, if possible.
- Following the screwdriver method’s steps, if a key or fob slot becomes visible.
In cases where the key fob is dead but you want to start the car, you can still use the following method:
Starting a Keyless Car With a Dead Key Fob
Keyless cars often have an emergency backup program allowing fobs to start the car when held next to the start button:
- Access your car’s interior without a working fob.
- Use this service to unlock the car and access the interior if available.
- Engage the emergency brake before attempting to start the car.
- Press the key fob to the start button, utilizing the emergency backup program that activates when the fob is close to the button.
- After starting, visit a dealership or locksmith for a new fob battery.
Risks Of Starting A Car Without A Key
It’s vital to avoid DIY methods unless necessary. There are inherent risks associated with starting a car without a key, including:
- Vehicle damage: Incorrect attempts at starting can lead to significant damage to your car’s dash, wiring, steering column, or battery.
- Legal implications: While it is not illegal to hotwire your car, roadside hotwiring can raise concerns with law enforcement. Moreover, your insurance or warranty won’t cover any damage you cause attempting to start your vehicle without a key.
- Personal safety: Working with a vehicle puts you at risk of injury, such as electric shock or physical harm, while handling wires.
Safety gloves and eyewear are essential to minimize injury risks when attempting these methods.
Emergency Starting Methods When Your Key Fob Fails
Several scenarios can render your key fob unusable. The most common include a dead battery, electronic malfunction, or simply losing the fob. Fortunately, car manufacturers have anticipated these issues and implemented backup systems.
#1. Using the Emergency Key.
Most keyless entry systems include a physical emergency key hidden inside the key fob. This key can be used to unlock the car manually. The location of the keyhole is often concealed under a plastic cover on the door handle.
To access the emergency key, locate the release mechanism on the key fob. This could be a small button or a sliding latch. Once released, the emergency key slides out. Use this key to unlock the driver’s side door.
Once inside, starting the car usually involves a specific procedure. The next step is to find the designated spot to place or hold the key fob.
#2. Locating the Designated Key Fob Spot.
Even with a dead battery, the key fob can often start the car if placed in the designated spot. This spot allows the car to read the fob’s transponder chip directly, bypassing the need for battery power.
The location of this spot varies depending on the car manufacturer and model. Common locations include:
- The steering column: Some cars have a slot or indentation on the steering column specifically for the key fob.
- The center console: Others may have a designated area in the center console, often near the gear shifter or cup holders.
- The glove compartment: In some cases, the key fob spot is located inside the glove compartment.
- The push-button start button: Some cars require you to hold the key fob directly against the push-button start button.
Consult your car’s owner’s manual to locate the designated key fob spot. Once located, place the key fob in the designated spot and attempt to start the engine.
#3. Using the Car’s Mobile App.
Many modern cars come with a companion mobile app that allows you to control various vehicle functions remotely, including locking/unlocking doors and starting the engine.
If your car is equipped with this feature and you have already set it up, you can use the app to start the car even without the key fob. Simply open the app on your smartphone, locate the remote start function, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Keep in mind that this method requires an active subscription to the car manufacturer’s connected services.
How to Fix the Car Key Problems?
#1. Car Key Battery Dead.
The car key uses the battery as its main source of electricity. The battery powers up and sends signals to lock/unlock the car. If the battery has low energy, then the key will not work.
Fix
Change the car key battery to the same size as the old one.
#2. Damaged Car Key Transmitter.
The car key operates using wireless communication protocol at a certain speed and channel. It uses this protocol to send and receive signals to and from the car, such as lock/unlock the door signals, close/open windows signals, etc.
When the vehicle key transmitter is damaged, the car will not start since there is no sufficient communication with the car’s receiver.
Fix
Visit the nearest key store or your car dealership to get your car key repaired or changed if necessary.
#3. Lost Programming.
Car keys are paired devices that can only work with one car. There is, therefore, some programming and encryption between a certain car key identifier and a certain remote. If this programming gets lost, the car key will stop functioning.
Fix
Take your car into any specialized garage or dealership to get the key programmed into your car’s central lock system. This process can be done using advanced machines and techniques.
#4. Steering Wheel Binding.
The steering wheel is mechanically connected to the ignition cylinder. When you slide the key out of the keyhole and try to move the steering wheel, the steering will lock, and you can’t move the key into the ignition cylinder.
Fix
Turn the steering wheel back and forth and, at the same time, turn the key in the ignition cylinder until it is freed.
#5. Worn Key/Ignition Cylinder.
The ignition cylinder/key gets worn and fails to work as required as the car ages due to the high number of keys used. You may then start experiencing a problem, such as difficulty when turning the key.
Fix
The best solution for this problem is to get a new key set. The set should include keys, ignition cylinder doors, and trunk locks.
#6. Bad Ignition Switch.
The ignition cylinder is connected to the ignition switch by a lever shaft. This gives you the freedom to select the position you need, such as “OFF” will shut everything, “ACC” will connect the radio and other accessories, “RUN” to connect electricity to the engine control module, and finally, “start” to engage the starter relay and run the engine.
With time and usage, these contacts, which differentiate between the profiles, are worn, and you start facing problems when starting your car or switching between these settings.
Fix
Make sure that all other electrical components are in good condition, then consider replacing the ignition switch as soon as possible.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Keyless Entry Problems
Prevention is always better than cure. Taking proactive steps can minimize the chances of encountering keyless entry problems.
Regularly Replacing the Key Fob Battery
Replace the key fob battery every one to two years, even if it is still working. This will help prevent the battery from dying unexpectedly. Set a reminder in your phone or calendar to replace the battery on a regular schedule.
Protecting the Key Fob from Damage
Protect the key fob from physical damage, such as dropping it or exposing it to extreme temperatures or moisture. Consider using a key fob case or cover to protect it from scratches and impacts.
Keeping a Spare Key Fob
Always keep a spare key fob in a safe and accessible location. This will provide a backup option in case the primary key fob is lost, damaged, or malfunctioning.
Store the spare key fob in a secure location, such as a lockbox or a trusted friend or family member’s house.
Understanding Your Car’s Keyless System
Familiarize yourself with the specific features and functionalities of your car’s keyless system. Read the owner’s manual carefully and understand how the system works, including the location of the emergency key and the designated key fob spot.
Practice using the emergency key and the designated key fob spot so that you are prepared in case of an emergency.
FAQs.
Q: Can You Drive a Keyless Car Without the Key?
Yes, you can drive a keyless car without the key in it after starting the vehicle. However, when it shuts down, then it will never start again without the key inside the car.
Q: Do You Need a Key for Push to Start?
Sure, the smart key should be inside the car when using a push to start. The immobilizer system starts the scan for the key, and when it finds the right key, it starts the car.
In some cases, when the battery of the smart key is dead, you will need to push the start engine by the key itself using passive RF technology.
Q: What Is the Advantage of Push-Button Start?
The major advantage of the push-button start is it increases the comfort of a driver. This is because he doesn’t keep searching for the key in his bag or pocket.
As soon as the car detects the smart key in the area, the car will unlock when you push the button on the door handle. The engine will start immediately after pressing the start engine button.
Q: What Happens If a Push-Button Start Fails?
Try to push the start engine button using the smart key. If this fails, then you need to take your car to the authorized dealer to get the problem checked.
Q: How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Push-to-Start Key?
It depends on the brand and how complicated programming the key is. However, generally, it costs from $50 to $400.
Q: Can you manually start a push-button start car?
Yes. In some cases, when the battery of the smart key is dead, you’ll need to push the start engine by the key itself using passive RF technology.
Final Words
It is not surprising for you as a driver to experience challenges with car keys and problems related to key fobs and ignition cylinders and switches.
The information above should help you diagnose your car’s fault, ranging from a simple battery problem that you can handle personally to more complicated problems that need advanced machines and expertise.
If you are not sure about exactly how to start your vehicle and what might be causing it not to start, consult an expert or authorized dealer to get your problem fixed.