Lost Key in Car
You're in a rush to leave the house and your keys disappear. You may have an extra car key or you can call a local locksmith to make a new key.
It's easy to keep returning to the same places that you're "sure" you have put your keys in, however it's important to retrace your steps and conduct a thorough search.
1. Retract Your Steps
Sometimes, you'll lose your keys at the time you least expect it. You might lose your keys while out running, or returning home from a long working day. It can be easy to get overwhelmed in these situations, but it's crucial to be calm and then retrace your steps. This will help you find the location where your keys might be, and also where to begin looking.
If your steps will not retract/extend with the ignition on it is possible to check the step motor or replace the fuse. You can also tap the step motor using your hammer to see if it works.
2. Make Sure You Check Your Car
Losing your car keys could be a nightmare, especially if you need to get somewhere in a hurry. It's crucial to remain in a calm state and return to your steps until you can find them.
Start by thinking about the last moment 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 to locate someone to assist you for a lower cost 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 and start the car. The keys have a tiny chip that transmits a unique signal to the car, which can only be read by a special scanner. If you own transponder keys the best choice is to contact your car dealer. They will be able to provide you with a key and pair it up with your vehicle. However, this is costly and could take a long time. You can also make use of a Bluetooth keytracker, which functions as a regular key, but is much less expensive. These devices emit a radio signal and can be linked to an app on your smartphone which allows you to know where your keys are.
3. Contact a locksmith
It's a good idea keep a spare set of keys in a safe location if you lose your keys often. You'll always have a spare key available to use when you need one. If you don't have an extra key, look online for aftermarket keys that work with your car. They're usually less expensive than going to an auto dealer.
Your backpack or bag is another place to search for keys from your car. Be sure to look through all pockets, zippered sections and small compartments. Sometimes keys are accidentally slipped in these places and can be very hard to find. Contact a locksmith if cannot locate your key.
Car locksmiths are skilled at replacing keys lost. The locksmiths will be capable of creating a new car key with the information you supply, such as VIN number or key identification. Depending on the type of key you have, they may also be able to reprogram the immobilizer system, which will stop it from starting if the wrong key is used.
You can also ask your local dealer to assist you in finding your lost car key. They usually can create an alternative chip for your car, but the process could be more expensive than if you worked with an outside locksmith.
If your key is equipped with a transponder, you'll be required to visit the manufacturer or dealer to request a replacement. In this instance, the dealer or manufacturer will need to design an appropriate key to match the current system of your vehicle and you'll have to provide proof ownership. This can be prevented by working with an auto locksmith who is likely to be able to offer you the best price.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
You've had a long, exhausting day. You're ready to go to your home, put on a comfy sweatshirt and order a pizza and watch your favorite show. But then you forget your keys. That's a pity! Check your car first, because that's the most obvious place to look. Also check the cushions on your couch and in cabinets and countertops where you may have put them down. Now is the perfect time to clean up if you haven't done so yet. Make sure to take a look around your workplace and other places you might have lost keys in the past. Many times keys are handed in by customers or employees and could be waiting for you.
Contact your insurance provider if you have done all this and you still can't locate your keys. Losing your keys can be considered an extensive loss, meaning the insurer will pay to replace the keys. If you have roadside assistance insurance they will provide a locksmith you. If you don't have roadside assistance you'll have bring your vehicle in to the dealership so that they can create a key based on the information from your vehicle. 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 of losing one. It's a good idea to make your spare key from the same type of key as the one you have in your car key. Consider purchasing a Bluetooth tracker to help you find your key ring. There are numerous options, like Apple AirTags, Tiles and others.
5. Contact the police
One of the most common problems faced by motorists is the loss of keys to their cars. If someone steals your car using your key, it's more than only a hassle but also an opportunity for security.
The best thing to do in the event that you lose your keys is retrace your steps and conduct a thorough search. Make sure you look in compartments, pockets, and even inside bags that may be smuggled around. You can also ask your friends and family members to help you look. They may have an alternative perspective and may be able to identify things that aren't visible.
It is crucial to contact the police immediately if are unable to find your keys. replacing a lost car key will stop other crimes in the meantime. It will assist you with the possibility of a claim for insurance if your car is stolen.
The police will let you know whether your keys were returned once you have reported the loss. The police will usually inform you when your keys have been found.
You can contact a locksmith if you are not satisfied with the police's response. Certain locksmiths can design a new key for you while others can disable the old one to stop someone from getting your car. You can also speak to your car dealer for similar services. You should check your insurance policy first, as some policies will cover the cost.