What to Do If You Lose Your Car Keys
It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. In the chaos of school pick-ups, shopping trips to the grocery store and other chores, things often get misplaced.
Be sure not to panic. Making a note of your steps and searching thoroughly is usually the best way of finding the most important element.
1. Retract your steps
It's not a secret that keys are the most frequently misplaced items. It could happen to anyone, no matter if you're running an adventure, distracted while getting out of your car or at home rushing to get ready for work and then dropping your keys. If you've lost your car keys There are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith for help.
In the beginning, you'll need to go back and trace your steps. It isn't easy to recall where you were when you last viewed your keys, and where you went afterward. It might also be helpful to note down your steps so that you can look them up in the future.
If you've tried searching in obvious locations but cannot find your keys, you might need to look in different places. Make sure you look in any pockets or bags that you've been wearing throughout the day, and also your home. Be aware that your keys could be in the vicinity, but not in a place you'd expect. It could also be helpful to locate your keys near any other items they're usually connected to, such as the laptop or purse.
If lost my car key have tried all these options but you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to call for an emergency locksmith who is available 24 hours per day. But before you do, try some of these tips to avoid your keys disappearing in the future.
2. Get a spare key
Car keys have an amazing ability to disappear from pockets of coats, under couch cushions, or just plain vanish altogether. In the past it wasn't a big deal since it was easy to obtain a new key at any locksmith or hardware store. However, with the advancements in key fob technology it's now much more difficult to obtain the replacement keys for keys lost.
It is advisable to keep an extra car key in hand. You won't have to call a tow-truck, and will be able to easily get your vehicle back if you lose your key. It is recommended to keep the spare key in a different spot than your usual keychain, so it's not as easily lost. If you don't have an extra key, think about making one to decrease the possibility of losing your keys.
Depending on the model of your vehicle you may be able to have a traditional key created by a locksmith, or a dealership. It is crucial to remember that the dealer needs to program your key to match your car.
Many modern cars are equipped with keyless entry systems that allow you to unlock your car using a remote control. This is also referred to a "fob." If you lose your fob, the only method to get your car started again is to visit the dealer or a locksmith and ask them to connect a new fob to your car. To prevent this from happening, make it a habit to place your keys in the same spot every time you get home. It could be in the entry table, a bowl on your front porch or even a hook on the door, it will make it easier to remember where they are and how you can find them in the future.
3. Empty your Pockets
It's a terrible feeling to lose your car keys. You might feel helpless and panicked if you lose your car keys.
Fortunately, panicking won't aid you in finding your keys - and it could cause more problems. Be calm and follow the steps below to find your keys in the quickest time possible.
Start by going back through your day and remembering where you had them last. Check all your bags and pockets If you can recall they were in your wallet. You can also go through the steps you took to see if they were found anywhere in the world. Finally, you can always look inside your car to determine whether they've been discarded however, you'll need to thoroughly search the inside and exterior of the car.
If you've tried everything and can't locate your car keys, then it's time to do more advanced searches. This includes looking in the fridge and freezer to find your keys. You will have to shut and open each appliance and look inside as you may find small objects.
Attaching your keys to a long chain or lanyard is another great way to prevent losing them. This makes it easier to locate them because they are louder and longer. It's also helpful to put your keys in a bright shade to make them are noticeable against other items in your handbag or pockets.
4. Contact the police
It's obvious that the first thing you must do when you lose your car keys is to contact the police. It's important to report your lost keys to your car as soon you lose them to ensure you don't face any issues with someone using your vehicle or entering your home. Besides, reporting your loss at an early stage will also help you with regard to insurance coverage since the majority of policies cover the cost of locksmith and even replacement keys at the dealership.
They will be able let you know if they've discovered your keys or if they have been stolen when you call them. They'll also provide advice on preventative steps to take. If your keys haven't been discovered, they'll likely ask you to provide details of when you lost them and what you were doing before that happened.
Examine your bags, pockets and other places where you typically carry the key. After that, walk back through your day and try to recall the place you lost them. You might have dropped them on a table, or in your bag after reaching for something.
If you own transponder keys that operate electronically, it must be linked to the car and this can be done by a dealership. It could cost you a few hundred dollars or more, based on the model and brand of your vehicle. You can also call GEICO for assistance with roadside emergencies and is available via the GEICO app. This service will save you time and money by offering an emergency locksmith on the move for you.
5. Call a Locksmith
If you're out running errands and leave your car keys in the trunk for a moment and they'll be gone. This is a scenario that occurs all too often, as keys missing from cars are the third most lost item in America1. lost my car key can't prevent this from happening all the time. However, you can take steps to lessen the chance of losing them.
A spare key is a good idea however, it isn't a ensure that you will not lose the original. Having a tracking device on your keychain could aid in finding your keys if they do become lost. A tracking device will send an alert to your phone whenever it detects an indication from your lost key, making it much easier to find.
If you can't find your car keys, you should contact a locksmith to come out and replace them. If you can provide evidence of ownership, such as the registration or title of your vehicle, a locksmith will be able to create keys for you.
Keys that are traditional are the most simple to replace. If you have a remote key fob, or smart key, you'll have to call your dealer to get one made. You can also purchase replacement keys online. But, ensure you check if the key is programmed for your particular vehicle.
The loss of your car keys can be a stressful event, but it isn't necessary to be. You can get your keys back by following the above tips. Keep calm, and don't panic! The most important thing to keep in mind is that you're not the only one - everybody loses their car keys at some time or another.