What to Do If You Lose Your Car Keys
It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. Things could get lost in the rush of school pick-ups, grocery visits, and other chores.
The most important thing to remember is not to be in a panic. Finding the key typically requires repeating your steps.
1. Retract Your Steps
It's not a secret that keys are the most frequently lost objects. It is a possibility for anyone, no matter if you're running an adventure, distracted when you get out of your vehicle, or at home, hurrying to get ready for work and then dropping your keys. If you've lost keys to your car, there are some things you can do before calling a locksmith assistance.
You'll have to go back through all your steps. It isn't easy to remember where you were when you last viewed your keys, or where you went afterwards. It may be beneficial to record the steps you did so that you can find them later.
If you have searched in the most obvious places but can't locate your keys you may have to look in other places. Examine your purses and pockets and the house. Keep in mind that your keys are likely to be in close proximity but they're not in an obvious place. It may also be beneficial to search for your keys near any other items they're typically paired with, like the laptop or purse.
If you've tried all these options but still cannot find your keys, it's time to call for an emergency locksmith that is available 24 hours a day. Before calling a locksmith, you can try these suggestions to stop your keys from disappearing again.
2. Find a spare key
Car keys have an amazing ability to disappear into pockets on coats, underneath couch cushions, or just disappear completely. In the past, this was no big deal since it was easy to obtain an additional key from any locksmith or hardware store. With the introduction of key fob technology it is now much more difficult to replace keys that have been lost.
It is advisable to keep a spare car key on hand. You won't have to call a tow-truck, and will be able to easily get your vehicle back if you lose your keys. It is advisable to have the spare key in a different location than the usual keychain so that it isn't as easily lost. Consider getting a spare made if you don't already own one. This will reduce the possibility of losing your keys.
Depending on the type of vehicle you own, you can have traditional keys made by a locksmith or a dealership. It is important to note that the dealer may have to program the key to match your specific vehicle.
Many modern cars are equipped with keyless entry systems that allow you to unlock your car using the remote control. This is also referred to a "fob." If you lose your fob, the only method to get your car running once more is to visit the locksmith or dealer and let them pair a new fob with your car. Make it a habit to put your keys in the exact same spot every time you arrive home. Whether it's in the entry table or an empty bowl on your front porch, or even a hook by the door, it will help you remember the location of your keys and where you can find them in the future.
3. Empty your Pockets
It's an awful feeling to lose your car keys. It can be a bit overwhelming and anxious if you've lost your car keys.
Fortunately, panicking won't aid you in finding your keys. In fact, it may even make things worse. Be calm and follow the steps listed below to locate your keys in the quickest time possible.
Begin by thinking about your day and remembering the last spot you saw them. If you remember that they were in your pocket, make sure to look through all of your pockets and bags thoroughly. You can also go through the steps you took to determine whether they were located anywhere else. You could also examine your car, but you will need to thoroughly search both the exterior and the interior.
If you've checked everywhere and still can't locate your car keys It's time to move on to more sophisticated searches. This includes looking in the fridge and freezer to find your keys. You'll need to open and close both of these appliances, and look around the inside, as you never know where tiny items may have been hiding.
Another way to prevent losing your car keys is to tie them to a lanyard that is long or a chain. This makes it easier to find them because they are louder and longer. It is also beneficial to place your keys in a bright shade so that they are noticeable against other items in your bag or pocket.
4. Call the police
The first step following losing your keys is to call the police. Reporting the lost keys to the police immediately is important so that you do not have to worry about someone using your vehicle, or even entering your home. Besides, reporting lost key for car benefits you with regard to insurance coverage since most policies will cover the cost of locksmith and even replacement keys at the dealership.
When you call the police and they'll inform you whether your keys were found by people or have been taken. They'll also advise you on the steps you can take. If your keys aren't found, they'll likely ask you to provide details of the time you lost them and what you were doing before the incident occurred.
If you have an old-school metal key that isn't working electronically, the first thing to do is to check your bags, pockets, and wherever else you typically carry the keys. After you've checked your pockets, bags and other places where you typically carry them, go back to the beginning of time to recall the time you lost the keys. You might have tossed them on a table or in your bag when you reached for something.
This is only done by the dealer if have a transponder that works electronically. This can cost several hundred dollars, based on the brand and model. You can also call emergency roadside service from GEICO and is available 24/7 through the GEICO mobile app. This service could save your time and money by offering an on-the-go locksmith service for you.
5. Contact an expert locksmith
When you're running errands and leave your car keys in your trunk for a moment and they'll disappear. This scenario is frequent, considering that keys are the most misplaced item in the United States1. You can't prevent this from happening constantly. However, you can take steps to lessen the chance of losing them.
Having a spare key can aid, but it won't guarantee that you won't lose the original. A tracking device on your keychain can help you locate your keys in the event they are lost. A tracking device will send an alert to your smartphone when it detects the signal from your lost keys and makes it easier to locate.
If you can't locate your car keys, contact locksmiths who will come and replace the keys. The locksmith will be able to create a new key on behalf of you, provided that you have proof that proves you are the owner of the vehicle, such as your vehicle's title or registration.
The traditional keys are the most simple to replace. If you own a remote key fob or smart key, you will have to contact your dealer to have one made. You can also buy replacement keys online. But, ensure you verify that the key can be programmed to your specific vehicle.
Losing your car keys can be a stressful event However, it does not have to be. You can retrieve your keys by following these tips. Remember to stay 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 point.