What to Do If You Lose Your Car Keys
It can be quite frustrating to lose your car keys. Things are often lost in the rush of school pick-ups, grocery shopping trips, and other chores.
The most important thing to remember is not to be in a panic. Finding the key is usually going back to your steps.
1. Retract your steps
It's no secret that keys are one of the most common items that are lost. It is a possibility for anyone, whether you're on an errand, distracted while getting out of your car, or at home, rushing to get ready for work and then dropping your keys. If you've lost your car keys There are some options you can do before calling a locksmith for help.
You'll have to go back through all your steps. It isn't easy to recall where you were when you last viewed your keys, and also where you went afterwards. You may find it useful to write down the steps you did so that you can look them up later.
If you have searched in obvious locations but aren't able to locate your keys, you may have to look in other places. Make sure you look in your bags or pockets that you've been wearing throughout the day, and also your house. Keep in mind that your keys could be in close proximity They're just not in a convenient location. 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 everything but still cannot find your keys, then it's time to contact a 24-hour emergency locksmith. Before calling a locksmith, you can try these suggestions to prevent your keys from disappearing once more.
2. Find an extra key
It's not uncommon for car keys to disappear from coat pockets and couch cushions, or all by themselves. It was once simple to replace keys that were lost at any hardware or locksmith store. With the introduction of key fob technology it is now much more difficult to replace keys lost.
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 in the event that you lose your keys. It is recommended to keep the spare key in a different location than your keychain, so that it isn't as easy to lose. You should consider getting a spare if you don't already own one. This will decrease the chance of losing your keys.
Depending on the model of your car you may be able to have a traditional key created by a locksmith or dealership. However, it is important to remember that the dealer may have to program the key to match your specific vehicle.
Many modern cars are equipped with keyless entry systems that let you unlock your car by using the remote control. If you lose the fob your only option is to visit a dealer or locksmith to have them pair a replacement fob with your vehicle. Make it a habit of placing your keys in the same spot each when you return home. If it's on the entry table, a bowl on your front porch, or even a hook by the door, it will make it easier to remember the location of your keys and where to find them in the future.
3. Empty Your Pockets
Losing your car keys is an extremely painful experience. If you lost keys in the rush to get out of the house or your little ones hid them in the couch to play hide-and-seek the loss of your car keys can make you feel anxious and overwhelmed.
Luckily, panicking won't help you locate your keys. In fact, it can cause more trouble. Be calm and use the steps listed below to locate your keys as fast as you can.
Start by thinking back to your day and remembering the last time you visited them. Check all your pockets and bags If you can recall they were in your wallet. You can also repeat your steps to see whether you've found them anywhere else. Finally, you can always examine your vehicle to determine whether they've been discarded however, you'll need to thoroughly search the inside and exterior of the car.
If you've checked everywhere and still can't locate your car keys that you lost, it's time to start more sophisticated searches. This includes searching the fridge and freezer for your keys. You'll need to open and close both of these appliances and look around the inside, as you never know where small objects might be hiding.
Another great way to avoid losing your car keys is to attach them to a long lanyard or chain. This will allow you to keep track of them and also make them harder to lose due to the noise they make and the length of the lanyard or chain. It's also helpful to put your keys in a bright color to make them are noticeable against other items in your bag or pocket.
4. Contact the police
It is obvious that the first thing you must do after losing your car keys is to contact the police. It is crucial to report your lost keys to your car as soon you lose them so that you don't have any issues with someone using your vehicle or coming into your home. The early reporting of your loss will also help you in terms of insurance coverage as most policies cover locksmith costs and even replacement keys from the dealership.
They'll tell you if they have discovered your keys or if they've been taken when you call them. They'll also offer some suggestions on how you can prevent theft of your keys. If the keys aren't found they'll probably ask you for details regarding the time you lost them, and where you were prior to that.
Check company website , bags and other places where you typically carry the key. Once you've done this take a walk through your day and try to recall where you lost keys. It's possible that you set them down on a counter somewhere or searched your bag to find something, and the keys fell out.
If you have transponder keys that operate electronically, it must be connected to your car, which can only be done by a dealership. This can cost you a few hundred dollars or more, depending on the brand and model of your vehicle. You can also call GEICO for assistance with roadside emergencies and is available through the GEICO app. This service will save you money and time by delivering the locksmith via mobile to you.
5. Contact for a locksmith
If you're out running errands and leave your keys to your car in the trunk for a moment and they'll disappear. This scenario is all too common, as lost keys are the most misplaced item in the United States1. Unfortunately, it's not always possible to prevent this from occurring. However, you can take steps to reduce the chance of losing them.
The use of a spare key may aid, but it won't guarantee that you won't lose the original. A keychain with a tracking device will assist you in finding your keys in the event that they disappear. A tracking device will send an alert to your smartphone when it detects a signal of your lost keys and makes it easier to find.
If you can't locate your car keys you should contact an locksmith to come and replace them. If you have proof of ownership, like the registration or title of your vehicle, a locksmith will be able create a key for you.
Keys that are traditional are the easiest to replace, however If you own an electronic key or a remote key fob, you'll have to contact your dealer to request a custom-made key specifically for you. You can also buy replacement keys online, but make sure to check to see if the key you purchase can be programmed to your specific vehicle.
Losing your car keys can be a stressful event however it doesn't have to be. You can get your keys back by following the tips above. Be sure to remain calm and don't get stressed! The most important thing to keep in mind is that you're not the only one Everyone loses their car keys at some time or another.