What to Do If You Lose Your Car Keys
It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. In the shuffle of school pick ups, shopping trips to the grocery store and other chores, things can get lost.
Remember to not panic. Finding the key typically requires going back to your steps.
1. Retract your Steps
It's not a secret that keys are the most frequently misplaced objects. If you're on the run and are distracted when you're getting out of your car, or you're at home trying to get ready for the day and forget your keys in a hurry it could happen to anyone. There are a few steps you can take before calling a locksmith in case you've lost your keys.
You'll need to retrace all of your steps. This can be a challenge in a panic mode however, it's crucial to keep track of exactly where you last saw your keys and the places you went after that. You may find it useful to write down the steps you took so that you can look them up later.
If you've retraced your steps and still can't find your car keys, it may be time to begin looking in more obvious locations. Check your pockets and bags and also the home. Remember, your keys will likely be somewhere close by but they're not in an obvious place. It may also be beneficial to locate your keys near any other items they're usually paired with, like the laptop or purse.
If you've tried all of these options and still can't find your keys, it could be time to call a 24-hour locksmith for help. Before you call a locksmith, you can try these suggestions to stop your keys from being lost again.
2. Find a spare key
Car keys have the uncanny ability to disappear from coat pockets, under couch cushions, or just plain vanish altogether. At one time this wasn't a huge deal since it was easy to get 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 lost.
It is recommended to always have a spare car key on your side. A spare key will prevent you from calling an tow truck and aid in getting your vehicle back losing your key a lot more simple. It is advisable to have the spare key in a different place than your usual keychain, so it's not as easily misplaced. You should consider getting a spare in case you don't have one. This will lower the likelihood of losing your keys.
It is possible to get an old-fashioned car key made at a locksmith or at an auto dealer, based on the model of your car. It is important to note that the dealer might need to program the key to match your specific vehicle.
Many modern cars come 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 way to get your car running once more is to visit the dealer or a locksmith and have them pair a new fob with your car. Make it a routine to place your keys in the same spot every when you return home. It is possible to put your keys in a bowl or a hook on the front porch, or on the table in the entryway.
3. Empty your Pockets
Losing your car keys can be an extremely painful experience. You might feel helpless and panicked if you lose your car keys.
Doing something to solve your issue won't help and could make it worse. Instead keep your cool and follow the steps below to resolve your problem as quickly as you can.
Begin by thinking about your day and remembering the last place you were when you last saw them. If you remember that they were in your pocket, make sure to search all of your pockets and bags thoroughly. You can also go through the steps you followed to see if they were found anywhere other than your pocket. You can also check your car to see if they've been left there however, you'll need to thoroughly search both the interior and exterior of your vehicle.
If you've tried everything else and aren't able to find your lost car keys then it's time to start more advanced searches. This includes looking in the freezer and fridge to find your keys. You'll need to shut and open each of these appliances and feel around inside, as you never know where small objects might be hiding.
Attaching your keys to a long chain or lanyard is a excellent way to avoid losing keys. This makes it easier to locate keys because they're more noticeable and longer. You can also make your keys stand out using a bright color.
4. Call the Police
The first step following losing your keys is to call the police. It is crucial to report your lost car keys as soon as you lose them so that you don't have any issues with someone using your vehicle or entering your home. Reporting lost car key with no spare can also be beneficial in terms of insurance coverage as most policies cover locksmith costs and even replacement keys from dealerships.
If you contact the police and they'll inform you that your keys have been found by people or have been stolen. They'll also provide advice on the steps you can take. If your keys haven't been discovered, they'll likely ask you to give details of the date you lost them as well as what you were doing before that incident.
If you have an old-school metal key that doesn't operate electronically The first thing to do is check your pockets, bags, and anywhere else you normally carry them. After you've done that then go back through your day and try to remember the place you lost keys. You might have dropped them on a table or your bag while reaching for something.
If you have a transponder key that works electronically, it will need to be connected to your car and this can only be done at a dealership. It could cost several hundred dollars, based on your car's brand and model. You can also contact GEICO for assistance in an emergency and is available through the GEICO app. This service will save you time and money by sending a mobile locksmith to you.
5. Contact a Locksmith
When you're on the run and leave your car keys in the trunk for a moment and they'll disappear. This scenario is frequent, considering that keys are the most misplaced item among Americans1. Unfortunately, you can't always stop this from happening. You can, however, take steps to lessen the chances of losing them.
The use of a spare key may aid, but it won't guarantee that you will not lose the original. A keychain with a tracking device will help you locate your keys in the event that they get lost. A tracking device will notify your smartphone when it detects a signal from your keys that have been lost and makes it easier to locate.
If you can't locate the keys to your car, contact locksmiths who will visit and replace the keys. If you can provide proof of ownership, like the title or registration of your vehicle, a locksmith can create a key for you.
Traditional keys are the simplest to replace, but when you have an electronic key or a remote key fob, you'll need to contact your dealer to have one made specifically for you. You can also buy replacement keys online, but be sure to verify whether the key you buy can be programmed to your specific car.
The loss of your car keys can be a stressful event, but it doesn't have to be. You can get your keys back by following these tips. Be calm and don't get in a panic! The most important thing to keep in mind is that you're not alone Every car owner loses keys at some time or another.