What to Do When You Lose Your Motorcycle Keys

Keys get lost—it happens. The good news is that if you lose your motorcycle keys, you’re not completely out of luck—there are multiple ways you can get a new key so you can get back on the road as soon as possible.

Here’s a quick overview of some of the steps to take if you’ve lost your motorcycle keys and have no spare to help you out in Toledo, OH.

Cylinder code

The least expensive way to replace a motorcycle key (and thus the first option you’re going to want to try) is to access the cylinder code. You’ll have to find the ignition cylinder, which typically is found between the tachometer and speedometer. The ignition cylinder commonly has a silver shaft where the key goes in. On the side of that shaft will be a code that is either three or four digits long; you might have to loosen the shaft to find it.

Write down your cylinder code and take a picture of it just so you have a record of it to refer to if needed. You might also need to clean the area to be able to see the code clearly—this part of the motorcycle tends to get a bit gunky. You can then take this code to a local locksmith that is capable of making motorcycle keys. That code will give them the information they need to cut a key that will work for your bike.

Ignition cylinder removal

In some cases, it may be necessary to take the entire ignition cylinder to a locksmith. This will be the case if you cannot find a code on your ignition cylinder, or if the code is illegible. You’ll need to remove the ignition cylinder from your bike. But before you go through with this process, make sure there’s a locksmith nearby who will be able to make you a key based on the ignition cylinder.

To remove the cylinder, you’ll need to remove the bolts and unclip the wiring harness that helps hold it all together. Take photos before doing this so you know how it was attached and can easily put it back together.

Ignition cylinder replacement

If you can’t find a locksmith that will be able to make a key from the ignition cylinder, the third and most drastic option is to completely replace the ignition cylinder. The new cylinder will then come with a new key that is compatible with that cylinder. This is going to be a more time-consuming option, and likely more expensive than simply replacing the key, but it isn’t too difficult to accomplish. You’ll remove the cylinder in the manner described above, then purchase a part that matches the make and model of your bike. Once it’s installed, you should be able to get back on the road quickly!

If you’re interested in learning more about how to replace lost motorcycle keys in Toledo, OH, contact Toledo Lock & Key LLC today. We look forward to assisting you!

Categorised in: Motorcycle Keys

This post was written by Writer