What to Do If You Lose Your Car Keys
Losing your car keys can be among the most frustrating experiences you can endure. Things can get lost in the shuffle between school pick-ups, grocery visits, and other chores.
The most important thing to keep in mind is not to panic. Finding the key typically requires going back to your steps.
1. Retract Your Steps
It's no secret that keys are among the most frequently misplaced objects. It is a possibility for 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 then dropping your keys. There are some things you can do before calling a locksmith in case you've lost your keys.
The first step is to retrace your steps. It isn't easy to recall where you were when you last viewed your keys, and also where you went afterwards. It may be beneficial to record the steps you completed to be able to search them later.
If you have searched in obvious locations but can't locate your keys you might need to look in different places. Be sure to check the pockets or bags you've worn during the day, and also your home. Keep in mind that your keys may be in the vicinity, but not in the location you'd think of. You can also find your keys by looking around other items they're usually paired with like the laptop, purse or wallet.
If you've tried all of these options but you're still not able to locate your keys, it might be time to call an 24 hour locksmith to help. Before calling a locksmith, make sure you follow these suggestions to stop your keys from being lost again.
2. Get a Spare Key
Car keys have the uncanny ability to disappear inside pockets on coats, underneath couch cushions, or disappear completely. At one time it wasn't a big issue since it was simple to find a new key at any hardware store or locksmith. However, with the advancements in key fob technology, it's become much more difficult to obtain a replacement for lost keys.
This is why it's ideal to keep a spare key on hand. You won't need 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 place than your normal keychain so that it isn't as easily misplaced. If you don't have a spare key, you should consider getting one made to reduce the possibility of losing your keys.
Depending on the model of your car you may be able to have traditional keys made by a locksmith or dealership. It is important to keep in mind that the dealer needs to program your key to fit your car.
Many modern cars 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 way to get your car running once more is to visit the locksmith or dealer and let them pair a new fob with your car. To avoid this from happening, try to make it a habit to keep your keys in the same place every time you arrive home. If it's on the entry table or an empty bowl on your front porch, or even a hook by the door, it will make it easier to remember where they are and where to find them in the future.
3. Empty Your Pockets
It's a terrible feeling to lose your car keys. It can be a bit overwhelming and anxious if you've lost your car keys.
The act of blaming yourself won't solve the problem and could make it worse. Instead try to stay calm and follow the steps below to resolve your issue as fast as you can.
Begin by thinking about your day and remembering the last place you were when you last saw them. Check all your bags and pockets in case you remember they were in your wallet. You can also go through the steps you followed to see if they were found anywhere in the world. You can also look over your car, but you will need to thoroughly search both the exterior and the interior.
If you've tried everything else and aren't able to 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 shut and open both of these appliances and feel around inside, as you never know where tiny items may have been hiding.
Attaching your keys to a chain or lanyard is another excellent way to avoid losing them. This makes it easier to find them because they are louder and longer. It's also helpful to put your keys in a bright shade to make them stand out against other items in your handbag or pockets.
4. Call the Police
The most obvious step after losing your keys is to call the police. It is crucial to report your lost keys to your car as soon you lose them to ensure you don't run into any issues with someone using your vehicle or gaining access to your home. In lost car key , reporting your loss in the early stages also benefits you with regard to insurance coverage since most policies cover the cost of locksmith and even replacement keys at the dealership.
They will be able tell you if they have discovered your keys or if they have been stolen when you contact them. They'll also offer some advice on how you can prevent theft of your keys. If your keys aren't found, they'll likely request you to give details of the date you lost them as well as what you were doing prior the incident occurred.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key that doesn't operate electronically The first thing to do is check your pockets, bags, and any other places you normally carry them. After you've checked your pockets, bags and other places you usually carry them, you should go back in time to try to remember when you lost the keys. You might have dropped them on a table or in your bag while reaching for something.
This can only be done by the dealer if have a transponder that functions electronically. It could cost several hundred dollars, depending on your car's brand and model. You can also ring up emergency roadside service from GEICO which is always accessible via the GEICO mobile app. This service will save your time and money by providing an emergency locksmith on the move for you.
5. Contact a locksmith
When you're running errands and put your car keys in the trunk for just a second, they can easily disappear. This scenario occurs all too often, as keys to cars that are lost are the third most lost item in America1. Unfortunately, you cannot always stop this from happening. You can, however, take steps to reduce your chances of losing them.
A spare key is a good idea but it doesn't guarantee that you will not lose the original. A tracking device on your keychain can assist you in finding your keys in the event that they get lost. A tracking device will send an alert to your smartphone when it detects a signal from your keys that have been lost and makes it easier to locate.
If you are unable to locate your car keys, contact locksmiths who will come and replace them. The locksmith will be able make a new key for you, provided that you have proof that you are the owner, such as your car's title or registration.
Traditional keys are the easiest to replace, however if you have an electronic key or a remote key fob, you'll need to contact your dealership to have one made specifically for you. You can also purchase replacement keys online, but make sure to verify whether the key you purchase can be programmed for the specific vehicle you own.
Losing your car keys can be stressful But it doesn't have to be. If you follow the suggestions given above, you can find your keys and be back on the road. Be calm and do not be in a panic! Remember that you are not alone. Everyone loses their keys at some time.