lost key

[bdw72]

I have some how lost or misplaced my only key, While I am looking for it, I wanted to check and see if anyone had any idea where I may get one made if I don't find it.

[petejw]

jat, not sure about the xj, but with my ignition
i can pretty much stick any long thin
key in it to start it, this might get you out of trouble,

if your replacing keys, a keysmith can match keys
to the barrels.

[b.walker5]

Examine one of the locks on the bike, ignition, tank, sidecover for the key number and then take that number to a dealer or a locksmith and they should be able to cut a new one for you. I got mine done at a local security centre and they just entered the number into their computerised do-hicky and out spat 2 keys, but I still had the original key so already had the number

There's threads here on site that tell you where to find the numbers, but one of them is located on the bottom of the ignition, which you have to remove to read the sticker.

[CatatonicBug]

IMHO, it would be best to remove the igntion switch and take it with you to a dealer or locksmith. The number on the bottom of the switch will tell the dealer how to cut the key, and they charge less to do it that way. Then, once you have the key, you can test it in the switch before you walk away. I did that, and the first key didn't work! He had to make a second key. If I had not had the switch with me, I would have gone all the way home with a dud key...

[res1uqtp]

+1 on the locksmith.

Checked with two dealers closest to me and first neither wanted to be bothered with ordering the keys and both wanted premium coin for them.

Called a locksmith and took him the ignition. Had two keys next day for 20 bucks and he was very apologetic that he had to order the keys and that's why it "took so long"

[fredintoon]

I have some how lost or misplaced my only key, While I am looking for it, I wanted to check and see if anyone had any idea where I may get one made if I don't find it.

Hi bdw,
there should be a 4-digit number on one or more of the locks.
The number will let a competent professional locksmith (not the bimbo in the Mall kiosk, the old guy in the dusty shop)
cut you a new key. Taking the iggy lock with you works too.
While you are there, or even if you find the lost key, you need five of them.
One on your key ring, one in your billfold, one taped to the inside of the bike's right side cover, one in your sock drawer and the last one at your mom's place.

[clcorbin]

While you are there, or even if you find the lost key, you need five of them.
One on your key ring, one in your billfold, one taped to the inside of the bike's right side cover, one in your sock drawer and the last one at your mom's place.

Wow! How in the world have I gotten along with only a single key for the last 21 years????

Of course, when my brother brought the bike back (on a trailer over Christmas), he DID forget to bring the key, so I had to pick the lock with a homemade pick and tension rod. It is kind of scary just how easy these locks are to pick!

[XJ Rob]

Original keys have a number code on them. Write the code on the title to the bike. If you loose the key, you can just take the title or number code to the locksmith. Hopefully they'll get it right the first time.

[fredintoon]

Wow! How in the world have I gotten along with only a single key for the last 21 years????

Hi Clint,
a combination of anal retention and blind good luck?
Seriously though, as long as you have an extra key in your billfold you will never lose the in-use one.

[clcorbin]

Hi Clint,
a combination of anal retention and blind good luck?
Seriously though, as long as you have an extra key in your billfold you will never lose the in-use one.

That does about sum it up! When I bought my car (2005 Mustang GT), I also bought two more keys for it. To program a new key, you have to have TWO programmed keys available, otherwise, you get to pay the dealer to program the keys and that costs more than a pair of keys does. Needless to say, I have four keys and I have only used one of them. But I do know where the other three keys are.