What does it mean when my new key turns but the engine won't start?
It usually means the key has been cut to fit the ignition but the car doesn't recognise it yet. Most modern keys carry a transponder chip, and the car's immobiliser will not let the engine run until that chip has been programmed to the vehicle.
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A key that turns the ignition proves only that the metal part matches. Starting the engine also depends on the electronic part, which is a separate step.
Why it happens
A cut key and a programmed key are two different jobs. The blade is shaped to turn the ignition cylinder. The chip inside the head, or inside a fob, has to be registered with the car's computer. If only the cutting was done, the key will turn and the dashboard may light up, but the engine will not fire.
Push-to-start vehicles work the same way, except the fob needs to be paired with the car rather than a blade cut. A fob that has not been paired will not be accepted, even if it looks identical to the original.
Sometimes the cause is the chip itself, or something unrelated to the key, such as a weak battery. That is why it is worth ruling out the simple things first.
What you can check yourself
- Look at the dashboard lightsA flashing key or padlock symbol usually means the car is not recognising the key. Note what you see, because it helps the locksmith.
- Try your other key, if you have oneIf an existing key starts the car normally, the fault is most likely with the new key rather than the car.
- Check the basicsMake sure the car is in Park or Neutral and your foot is on the brake or clutch as the manual requires. If the steering wheel feels stuck, turn it gently while you turn the key.
- Rule out a weak batteryDim dashboard lights or a rapid clicking sound point to the battery rather than the key. Stop trying repeatedly if that is what you see.
- Push-to-start carsYour owner's manual shows where to hold the fob if its battery is flat. If the car still ignores it, the fob probably needs pairing.
When to call a locksmith
If the key turns, the dashboard security light is flashing and the engine will not start, the key most likely needs programming at the vehicle. That is a job for a locksmith, and it is worth calling before you keep trying the ignition. You can reach One Call Locksmiths on (866) 690-5848, and we arrange the visit with an independent locksmith.
The locksmith will ask for identification and proof that you are entitled to the vehicle before doing any key work, such as your driver's licence with the address, the vehicle registration or your insurance. The locksmith looks at the car, gives you the price, and starts work only once you have agreed it. The estimate is free.
What the locksmith will do
- Identify the vehicle and key typeThe locksmith confirms the year, make and model and which kind of key or fob the car uses.
- Cut and program the keyThe key is cut where needed, and the transponder or fob is programmed at the vehicle so the car accepts it.
- Remove a lost key from the car's memoryWhere the car supports it, a lost key is cleared so it can no longer start the vehicle. This matters if the key was lost rather than broken.
- Test before leavingThe new key, and any spare, is tested in the car before the locksmith leaves.
Related questions
- Can any locksmith program a key for my car?
- Not every vehicle can be keyed away from a dealer, so the make and model decide what is possible. The locksmith can tell you once the vehicle and key type are identified, before any work starts.
- Will a lost key still start my car after a new one is made?
- Not if it is removed from the car's memory, which the locksmith can do where the vehicle supports it. Ask about this if the old key was lost rather than broken.
- Why does my push-to-start fob not work when it looks the same as my old one?
- A fob has to be paired with the car, not just cut or matched in appearance. An unpaired fob will be ignored until it has been programmed.
- What determines the cost of a replacement car key?
- The main factors are the key type, whether it is a blade key, transponder key or push-to-start fob, and whether it needs cutting, programming or both. The vehicle and the time of day also matter. The estimate is free and the price is agreed before work begins.
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