Lost Key in Car
You're in a hurry to leave the house, and your keys vanish. You might have an extra car key, or you can call a local locksmith to make an entirely new key.
It's simple to return to the exact places that you're "sure" that your keys are, but you should retrace all your steps and thoroughly look for them.
1. Retract Your Steps
Sometimes, you'll lose your keys at the time you least would. This can happen when you're doing errands or returning home after a long day at work. It's easy to panic in these situations, but it's essential to relax and retrace your steps. This will help you figure out where your keys might be and where to start looking.
If your steps aren't retracting or extending even when the ignition is on, you may require replacing a fuse or check the step motor. You can also try tapping on the motor using an hammer to determine if that works - it sometimes does.
2. Make Sure You Check Your Car
The loss of your car keys can be a nightmare, particularly when you have to go somewhere fast. It's vital to be calm and follow the steps you took in order to locate your keys.
Start by thinking about the last time you remembered having your keys. Inspecting the pockets on your jacket or jeans could be enough. It is also advisable to check other places you wouldn't normally consider checking like your shoes after a workout or on top of your refrigerator.
If you cannot find your keys, you may be able find someone to assist you for a lower price than the cost of a dealership. You should first see if the lost key is covered under your car warranty or insurance.
Transponder keys are used by the majority of modern vehicles to lock and unlock doors, as well as start the car. These keys contain tiny chips that send an exclusive signal to the vehicle which can only be read by a scanner. If you have a transponder key the best choice is to contact your car dealer. They can give you a new key and connect it to your vehicle. However, this can be costly and could take a while. Alternately, you could try using a Bluetooth key tracker, which is much less expensive and works similarly to the regular keys. These devices emit a signal that you can connect to an app on your smartphone, which will show you where your keys are.
3. Call lost car key replacement
If you're a frequent key-loser it's a good idea to have an extra key in a place that is safe. You'll always have a spare key to make use of when you require one. If you don't have a spare key, search online for keys from the aftermarket that will work with your vehicle. Often these are cheaper than visiting the dealer.
Your backpack or handbag is a good place to search for keys to your car that have been lost. Be sure to look through every pocket, zippered section, and even small compartments. These pockets, zippered spaces, and small compartments may conceal keys that are difficult to locate. If you're having no luck finding your key you need to contact a locksmith.
Locksmiths are experts in replacing keys lost. Locksmiths are capable of creating a new car key with the information you provide, such as VIN number or key identification. Based on the type of key you own, they may also be able to modify the immobilizer system, which will prevent it from starting if the wrong key is used.
You could also ask your local dealership to assist you in finding the lost car key. The dealership can 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 dealer or manufacturer for an exchange. In this scenario, the dealer or manufacturer will need to create keys that match the system in your vehicle. In addition, you'll need proof of ownership. You can avoid this by working with an auto locksmith, who will likely be able to offer you a better deal.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
It's been a long, tiring day and you're eager to head home, get into some comfy sweatpants, order pizza and binge your favorite show. Then you lose your keys. What a bummer! Before you give up and start panicking, make sure you check your car, the obvious spot you think they are is. Also, look over the cushions on your couch, drawers and counters where you might have put them. Now is the perfect moment to clean up if you haven't done so yet. Also, don't forget to go to the workplace or other locations where you might have lost your key in the past. Sometimes keys are handed in by customers or employees and may be waiting for you.
If you've done all of this but still aren't able to locate your keys it is time to call your insurance company. Losing your keys can be considered a comprehensive loss, meaning the insurer will pay to replace it. If you have roadside insurance the insurer will send an locksmith. If you do not have roadside assistance, you'll need to bring your vehicle to the dealer to create a key based on the information from your vehicle. It can be costly and can take a few days because the dealership has to program it into your computer system.
To avoid this problem to avoid this issue, always keep an extra key in your possession in the event of losing one. It's a good idea to make your spare key from the same kind of key as the one you have in your car key. Also, consider getting a Bluetooth tracker for your key ring to help you locate it. There are a variety of choices to choose from, such as the Apple AirTag, Tiles or numerous others.
5. Contact the police
One of the most frequent issues faced by motorists is losing keys to their cars. If someone steals your car with your keys, it's not just a hassle, but also a security risk.
If you've lost your keys, the best thing to do is to go back your steps and then search thoroughly. Make sure you check compartments, pockets and even inside bags that may have been used. You can also ask friends and family to help you look. They might have an entirely different perspective and be able to see things that are not visible.
If you're still having trouble finding your keys, it's crucial to inform the police as soon as you can. This will stop other crimes in the meantime and aid you in an insurance claim in the event that your vehicle is stolen.
After you've reported the loss the police will inform you that your keys were turned in. The police will usually notify you if your keys have been found.
If you're not satisfied with the police response, you can always contact a locksmith. Many locksmiths will be in a position to make keys for your car for you, and some can even disable the previous one to ensure no-one can use it to take your car. You can also contact your car dealer as they may offer similar services. It's a good idea to review your insurance policy prior to doing this as some policies cover the cost of a replacement.