Lost Key in Car
It happens to everyone: you're hurrying out the door and your car keys disappear. You might have a spare car key or you can call a local locksmith to make an original key.
It's easy to keep returning to the exact locations you're "sure" you have put your keys in, but it's crucial to retrace your steps and do a thorough search.
1. Retract Your Steps
Sometimes, you can lose your keys at the time you least would. It is possible to lose your keys while out running or when you return home from a long workday. In these situations, it can be easy for you to panic. It's crucial to be calm and retrace all your steps. This will help you identify where your keys might have gone and where to look.
If your steps will not extend or retract when the ignition is turned on, you may need to check the step motor or replace a fuse. You could also try tapping on the motor with an hammer to determine if that works - it sometimes does.
2. Make Sure You Check Your Car
Losing your car keys can be a nightmare, especially if you need to get somewhere in a hurry. It is important to remain at peace and follow your steps until you can find them.
A good place to start is to go back to the last time you remember having your keys. This can be a simple check of the pockets of your jacket or jeans. It's also a good idea to check areas that you don't normally think of looking at, such as your shoe if you went for a run, or the top of your refrigerator.
If you can't locate your keys, you might be able find someone to assist you at a lower cost than an auto dealer. But, first determine if the lost key is covered by your vehicle insurance or warranty.
Transponder keys are used by the majority of modern vehicles to lock and unlock doors and start the car. The keys are equipped with a chip that transmits a specific signal to the car which can only be read by a specially designed scanner. If you have a transponder key, the best option is to contact your dealer. They'll be able to provide you with a replacement key that can be paired with your vehicle. This could be expensive and take some time. You can also opt for a Bluetooth keytracker, which works like a regular key and is much less expensive. These devices emit a signal that you can connect to an app on your phone that will tell you where your keys are.
3. Call a locksmith
It's a great idea to keep a spare set of keys in a safe place when you frequently lose your keys. You'll always have a spare key to utilize when you require it. If car keys lost no spare don't have a spare, try looking online for second-hand keys that will work with your car. These are often cheaper than going to an auto dealer.
Another location to search for your car keys that have been lost is your backpack or handbag. Be sure to take a close look at the pockets or zippered compartments, as well as small compartments. These pockets, zippered areas and small compartments can hide keys that are difficult to locate. If you don't have any luck finding your key, it's time to call an locksmith.
Locksmiths are experts in replacing lost keys. They will be capable of creating a new car key using the information you supply including the VIN number or key identification. They may also be able of reprogramming the immobilizer to stop it from starting when the wrong key is used, based on the type of key you own.
You can also contact the local dealership for help with your lost key. The dealership could create an replacement key chip for your vehicle but it is more expensive than working with a locksmith from outside.
If your key is equipped with a transponder, you'll have go to the manufacturer or dealer to request an alternative. In this case, they will have to create a new key that pairs with the vehicle's current system, and you'll need to show proof of ownership. You can get around this by hiring an auto locksmith, who will likely be able to provide you with the best price.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
It's been a long, tiring day and you are ready to head home, get into a comfy sweatshirt, order pizza and binge your favorite show. You lose your keys. That's a pity! Before you give up and start panicking check your car, the obvious spot you think they are is. Also check the couch cushions and in the cabinets and counters where you might have put them down. If you haven't had a chance to clean up, now is the perfect time to do it. Be sure to check your workplace and other places where keys might have been lost in the past. Many times, keys are handed in by employees or customers and are waiting for you.
Contact your insurance provider If you've done all this and you still can't locate your keys. The insurer could pay for the replacement of your keys should you lose them. If you have roadside assistance coverage, they can send a locksmith to help you. If you don't have roadside assistance, you will need to bring your vehicle to the dealer so they can create a key based on your vehicle's information. It can be costly and can take a few days as the dealership needs to program the key into your computer system.
To avoid this problem ensure you have an extra key in your possession in the event that you lose one. It is a good idea to make your spare key from the same type of key as your car key. Also, consider getting a Bluetooth tracker for your key ring to assist you in find it. There are a variety of options to pick from, including the Apple AirTag, Tiles or many more.
5. Call the Police
Car keys lost are one of the most common problems that motorists face. If someone steals your car using your key, it's more than just a hassle, but also a security risk.
The best thing to do if you lose your keys is to retrace your steps and thoroughly search. Check pockets, compartments, and even bags that were carried. You can also enlist the assistance of your family members and friends to check things out, as they have different perspectives and are able to identify things that you might overlook.
If you're still having trouble finding your keys, it's crucial to contact the police as quickly as you can. This will prevent any other crimes from occurring in the meantime and it will also help with the possibility of a claim for insurance in the event of your car being stolen.
The police will let you know whether keys were returned after you've reported the loss. Sometimes, people leave them on the streets or in public parks, and police can usually notify you that they've been located.
If you're unhappy with the response of the police, you can always contact a locksmith. The majority of locksmiths are capable of creating a new car key for you, and some may even disable the previous one to ensure nobody is able to use it to steal your car. You can also speak to your dealer about this as they may offer similar services. It's a good idea to review your insurance policy before doing this, as certain policies will cover the cost of a replacement.