What to Do If You Lose Your Car Keys
It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. Things are often lost in the shuffle between school pick-ups, grocery trips, and other chores.
Remember to not panic. Finding the key typically requires retracing your steps.
1. Retract your Steps
It's no secret that keys are among the most frequently lost items. It can happen to anyone, whether you're running an errand, unable to concentrate while getting out of your vehicle or at home trying to get ready for work and dropping your keys. If you've lost your car keys There are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith for help.
You'll need to retrace all of your steps. This can be difficult when you're in a panic However, it's essential to remember exactly where you last looked at your keys, as well as the places you went following that. You may find it helpful to write down the steps you took so that you can find them later.
If you have searched in obvious locations but cannot find your keys, you may need to look in other places. Examine your purses and pockets, as well as the house. Be aware that your keys are probably in the vicinity, but not in the place you'd expect. It could also be helpful to locate your keys in the vicinity of other items they are typically connected to, such as the laptop or purse.
If you've gone through all of these options but are still unable to locate your keys, it might be time to call a 24-hour locksmith for help. Before you call a locksmith, try these suggestions to stop your keys from disappearing again.
2. Find a spare key
It's not unusual for car keys to disappear from pockets of coats or couch cushions just by themselves. At one time it wasn't a big problem since it was easy to find a new key at any locksmith or hardware store. With the introduction of key fob technology it's now more difficult to replace keys lost.
This is why it's best to keep a spare key in your car. You won't need to call a tow-truck, and will be able to easily get your vehicle back in the event that you lose your key. It is advisable to have the spare key in a different place than your usual keychain, so that it isn't as easily misplaced. Consider getting a spare made in case you don't have one. This will decrease the possibility of losing your keys.
Depending on the model of your vehicle, you can have a traditional key created by a locksmith or dealership. However, it is important to note that the dealer may have to program the key for your specific vehicle.
Many modern vehicles are equipped with keyless entry systems that let you unlock your car using a remote control. This is also referred to a "fob." If you lose your fob the only solution to get your car started once more is to visit the locksmith or dealer and let them pair a new fob with your vehicle. Make it a habit to put your keys in the same spot every time you arrive home. You can put your keys in a bowl, or on a hook on the front porch, or even on the table at the entrance.
3. Empty your Pockets
Losing your car keys can be an extremely painful experience. It doesn't matter if you dropped keys in the rush to leave the house, or your little ones hid them in the couch for a game of hide-and-seek and then lost your keys to your car can make you feel frantic and helpless.
Luckily, panicking will not help you locate your keys. In fact, it may even make things worse. Instead try to stay calm and follow the steps below to solve your issue as quickly as you can.
Start by thinking back to your day and recollecting the last spot you saw them. If you can recall that they were in your pocket, be sure to search all of your bags and pockets thoroughly. You can also retrace the steps you took to determine whether they were located anywhere in the world. You can also check your car, but you'll need to thoroughly search both the exterior and the interior.
If you have searched everywhere and still haven't found your car keys, it's time to do more advanced searches. This includes searching the freezer and fridge to find your keys. You will need to open and shut both appliances and feel inside for small items.
Attaching your keys to a long chain or lanyard is another excellent way to avoid losing keys. This will make it easier to find keys because they're more noticeable and are longer. It is also beneficial to place your keys in a bright hue to make them stand out against other items in your bag or pocket.
4. Call the police
It's obvious that the first thing you need to do after losing your car keys is call the police. It's important to report your lost keys to your car as soon as you lose them so that you don't run into any issues with someone using your vehicle or coming into your home. The early reporting of your loss will also help you in terms insurance coverage, as the majority of policies cover locksmith fees and even replacement keys from the dealership.
When you call the police and ask them to inform you whether your keys were discovered by people or been taken. They will also give you some tips on how to prevent the theft of your keys. If they can't locate your keys they'll probably be asking you for information about when you lost them and where you were before that.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key that doesn't function electronically The first thing to do is to check your bags, pockets and wherever else you typically carry them. After you've done that take a walk through your day and try to remember where you lost them. You might have dropped them on a table or in your bag when you reached for something.
If Home Page have a transponder key that operates electronically, it'll need to be linked to the car and this can only be done at the dealership. This can cost several hundred dollars, depending on the brand and model. You can also contact emergency roadside assistance from GEICO and is available 24/7 through the GEICO mobile app. This service will help you save money and time by sending the locksmith via mobile to you.
5. Contact a Locksmith
When you're on the run and you put your car keys in your trunk for a moment, they can easily disappear. This is a scenario that occurs often, considering that keys missing from cars are the third most lost item in America1. Unfortunately, you cannot always stop this from occurring. But you can make steps to lessen the chance of losing them.
A spare key is a good idea however, it isn't a guarantee that you will not lose the original. A tracking device on your keychain could help you find your keys in the event that they become lost. A tracking device will send an alert to your smartphone when it detects a signal from your lost keys which makes it easier to find.
If you can't locate your car keys you should call locksmiths to come out and replace the keys. If you have proof of ownership, for example the registration or title of your vehicle A locksmith will be able create a key for you.
Keys that are traditional are the most straightforward to replace. If you own an electronic remote key fob or smart key, you will need to contact your dealer to have a replacement made. You can also purchase replacement keys on the internet. But, ensure you check if the key can be programmed for your particular vehicle.
Losing your car keys can be stressful, but it does not have to be. You can get your keys back by following the tips above. Remember to stay calm and do not be in a panic! Remember that you are not alone. Everyone loses their keys at some time.