How to Recover a Lost Car Key
The loss of your car key could be a very stressful experience. You should remain calm and try to remember that losing your car keys isn't an issue.
In contrast to traditional keys that simply opened doors and turned the ignition keys of today come with sophisticated technology. You should know what to do if you lose your keys to avoid paying a costly replacement cost.
Retract your steps
A lost car key is a nightmare scenario for any driver. There are fortunately, a variety of options to recover your keys.
It is best to first retrace your steps. It might sound simple, but it can be very effective in finding the keys you lost. It's possible that you put them in a flurry and then forgot about them. You can retrace your steps to recall where you were last time you were able to see them. Also, you should check any places you've visited recently, even if you do not normally keep your keys in there. It's possible that your keys fell out of a pocket or bag and are hidden in a location you would not expect.
Another great way to find your keys that you have lost is by using the tracker. The device is small and attached to your keys. Then, you can use an application to locate them. This is only possible if your keys are equipped with an electronic component, such as remote key fobs.
If you don't have a tracker or are unable to locate your keys, the next step should be to contact an auto locksmith in your area. They can help you make an entirely new key and then reprogram it to the anti-theft system in your vehicle. This service can be expensive and can cost a few hundred bucks.
Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, you may have to get towed to the dealership in order to get replacement keys. lost keys of car is recommended to keep an extra key in your possession and take preventative measures to avoid losing keys in the first place.
The most important thing to remember when you lose your car keys is to stay calm. It's easy to panic when you can't find your keys, but it will be much harder to find them if you start yelling at yourself. If you can't find your keys within an acceptable timeframe then it's probably the right time to call a locksmith or visit the dealership. Regardless of what you do, make sure to inform your insurance provider about the incident so they can help if anything happens to your vehicle in the future.
Check Your Hide Spots
It is crucial to choose an area where people won't be able to see your spare key. If you don't, you're creating an easy target for thieves. A plant pot or flower box is the usual place where many people keep their extra keys, but this can be a big mistake. If a burglar discovers your keys, they may also discover your wallet or other valuables.
Another popular hiding place is behind the door, however this can be tricky to access in the event that you're locked out. There are locks that fit on the door's inside and appear like a standard lock, however they are usually quite expensive. An alternative that is less expensive is to hide the key under a door mat, or in the grass. Some people use fake rocks with a compartment hidden in the rocks.
It is not uncommon to store keys in the car. However, this could be risky. This trick is well-known to thieves, who may be able open the gas cap that is on the outside. If you're worried about this, consider getting a magnetic key holder that can be attached to the underneath of your vehicle. It resembles an actual license plate, but it's designed to hide the spare key.
Garages are another great hiding place for the key, especially if you have a detached one. A key that is tucked in a recess on the side of your garage door will stay away from view and reach unless you have a ladder.
Vinyl siding can also be an ideal place to hide because there are usually small gaps that you can slide the key. Attach a fishing line to the key, and slide it into the split until only an inch or two of it is visible. This will stop the key from slipping out in case you accidentally hit it while searching for it.
If you have lots of trees on your property, you may also try nailing your spare key to the top of one of the branches. If you reside in an area that has lots of trees this is a great alternative. Most people won't even think to look here for your keys.
Try turning off the car.
In the past the loss of your car keys was not a big deal. You could reach a locksmith to help out, and the cost was usually just $20 or so. Nowadays, cars are more and more technologically advanced which makes them more expensive to replace.
To start the engine in a modern car, there is a special computer chip that communicates with the vehicle's ECU. Without this, the car won't start. This is why it's crucial to make sure you have the correct key for your vehicle.
It is possible to start your car with an older style traditional key. If this does not work, you may need to contact a locksmith to make a new key or contact your dealership for assistance.
Another option is beginning the car using a spare key. A lot of new manual vehicles come with spare keys, so this may be your best bet. This method is more risky and will depend on the vehicle, but it could work.
This method also requires some technical expertise and an arsenal of tools. It also involves removing a part of the engine and isn't suitable for anyone. This type of work is best left to a professional especially since you'll be ignoring many safety features of the vehicle.
It's always a good idea to have a spare car key in the event that you lose one. The most affordable alternative is to have traditional keys made, but you can also buy a transponder key or smart key. They're more expensive to replace and will require a trip to the dealer for a new one that's connected electronically to your car.
Look back over your day
It's been seen by everyone The car keys. It's among the most annoying things you could do because it can completely ruin your day. You'll be late to work, and your chores will not be completed. You might even need to pay to replace your key fob when you rent a vehicle. But, it doesn't have to be this way. You can stop losing your keys and ruining your day if you follow these simple steps.
First first, don't get stressed. Relaxing will help you calm down and think clearly. It's important to note the places you've been to so you can go back and find out the reason why your keys disappeared.
If you're unable to remember where you put them, start by walking back through your day. If you lost them when you were out running errands, go back to each stop and think about what you were doing. Did you place them on a counter somewhere? You may have tossed them loose when you grabbed something from your bag. Try to remember exactly where you last saw them.
Once you've walked back through your day, make sure you look everywhere else. You might have left them in a pocket of the jacket you were wearing or in bags you brought with you. Make sure to search in places you wouldn't typically think of, like pockets in other people's clothing or beneath the cushion on your sofa.
If you still can't find your car keys, you might consider calling someone for help. Ask your friends whether they've seen them, or even better, call a locksmith. You don't want to end up paying for an extra key or, even more importantly, have your vehicle stolen. A professional can assist you in getting your keys quickly and efficiently. It's also an excellent idea to keep a spare car key, therefore, make sure you keep it in a safe place.