What to Do If You Lose Your Car Keys
It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. In the chaos of school pick ups, grocery store trips and other chores, things sometimes get lost.
The most important thing to remember is not to get in a state of panic. Retracing your steps and searching thoroughly is usually the best way of finding the key.
1. Retract Your Steps
It's not a secret that keys are one of the most popular items to misplace. If you're on the run and get distracted while getting out of your vehicle, or you're at home trying to prepare for the day and drop your keys in a rush, it can happen to anyone. There are a few things you can do prior to calling a locksmith in case you've lost your keys.
First, you'll want to go back and trace your steps. This can be a challenge in a panic mode However, it's essential to keep track of where you last saw your keys and the places that you went following that. You may find it useful to write down the steps you took so that you can search them later.
If you've tried searching in the most obvious places but cannot find your keys, you might need to look in different places. Be sure to check your bags or pockets that you've been carrying around during the day, as well as your home. Be aware that your keys could be in the vicinity, but not in the place you'd expect. It could also be helpful to locate your keys near any other items they are typically paired with, like the laptop or purse.
If you've gone through all of these options and still can't find your keys, it may be time to contact an emergency locksmith on the 24 hour line. Before calling a locksmith, you can try these suggestions to prevent your keys from being lost again.
2. Get a spare key
It's not uncommon for car keys to disappear from coat pockets and couch cushions, or just by themselves. At one time, this was no big issue since it was simple to obtain an additional key from any locksmith or hardware store. However, due to advancements in key fob technology it's now much more difficult to obtain the replacement keys for keys lost.
This is why it's ideal to keep a spare key handy. A spare key will save you from calling a tow truck and will make getting your vehicle back if you happen to losing your key much easier. It is advisable to have the spare key in a different spot than the usual keychain so it's not as easily misplaced. Consider purchasing a spare if you don't already have one. This will reduce the likelihood of losing your keys.
Depending on the model of your vehicle, you can have a traditional key made by a locksmith or dealership. It is crucial to remember that the dealer must program the key to fit your vehicle.
Many modern cars are equipped with an entry system which allows you to unlock the car using an electronic remote control. This is also referred to as 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 have them connect a new fob to your car. Try to make it a habit to put your keys in the exact same spot each when you return home. You can place 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 a terrible feeling. It doesn't matter if you lost them in the rush to get out of the house, or your little ones kept them on the couch to play hide-and-seek the loss of your car keys can make you feel anxious and insecure.
The act of blaming yourself won't solve the problem and may even cause it to become worse. Instead keep your cool and follow the steps below to resolve your issue as quickly as possible.
Start by thinking back to your day and recollecting the last place you were when you last saw them. If you can recall that they were in your pocket, make sure to search all of your pockets and bags thoroughly. You can also retrace the steps you took to see whether they were located anywhere else. You could also examine your car, but you'll have to thoroughly search the exterior and interior.
If you've checked everywhere else and aren't able to locate your car keys, it's time to start more sophisticated searches. This includes searching the fridge and freezer for your keys. You will need to open and shut both appliances and feel inside to see if you can find small things.
Another great way to avoid losing your car keys is to connect them to a long lanyard or chain. This will allow you to keep track of them, as well as making them harder to lose due to the sound they make and the length of the lanyard or chain. You can also make your keys stand out using a bright color.
4. Contact the police
The most obvious step after losing your keys is to call the police. Reporting the lost car keys immediately is crucial to ensure that you do not need to worry about someone else using your vehicle or even getting into your home. In addition, reporting your loss in the early stages will also help you in terms of insurance coverage since the majority of policies will cover the cost of locksmith and replacement keys at the dealership.
When you call the police and they'll inform you if your keys have been found by people or have been stolen. They'll also advise you on preventative steps to take. If official site been found, they'll likely ask you to give details of when you lost them and what you were doing prior that happened.
Check your bags, pockets and other places you usually carry the key. After you've examined your bags, pockets and other places where you typically carry them, go back in time to remember the date you lost the keys. You may have dropped them on a table or your bag while reaching for something.
If you have a transponder key that operates electronically, it must be connected to your car and this can only be done at a dealership. This can cost several hundreds of dollars, based on the brand and model. You can also call emergency roadside service from GEICO which is always accessible via the GEICO mobile app. This service could save you time and money by providing a mobile locksmith for you.
5. Call a Locksmith
If you put your keys in the trunk while doing errands, they can easily disappear. This scenario occurs often, considering that lost car keys are the 3rd most lost item in America1. You can't prevent this from happening constantly. You can, however, take steps to reduce the chance of losing them.
The use of a spare key may help, but it doesn't guarantee that you won't lose the original. Having a tracking device on your keychain can help you find your keys if they do disappear. A tracking device will send an alert to your phone whenever it detects a signal from the key you lost, making it much easier to locate.
If you are unable to locate the keys to your car, contact locksmiths who will visit and replace the keys. If you have proof of ownership, for example the title or registration of your vehicle A locksmith can create keys for you.
The traditional keys are the most simple to replace. If you own a remote key fob or smart key, you will have to call your dealer to have a replacement made. You can also buy replacement keys online, but make certain to verify if the key you purchase can be programmed for your specific car.
Losing your car keys can be stressful However, it doesn't have to be. By following the tips given above, you can retrieve your keys and get back on the road. Just remember to keep calm, and don't panic! Keep in mind that you're not all on your own. Everyone has lost their keys at one point in time.