What to Do If You Lose Your Only Car Key
Things get lost in the whirlwind that is life including kids, errands, work socializing with friends, and so on. Sometimes it's the small stuff like keys.
For most cars keys, a new one can be made at your local hardware store with proof of ownership (car registration or title). This is a cost-effective option.
Retract Your Steps
It can be a nightmare to lose your car's only keys and not be able to access your vehicle. It could cost you time, money and peace of mind. The first thing you should do when you lose the only key to your vehicle is to be calm. Panicking is not going to help you locate your keys faster and can make the situation even worse.
Begin by attempting to remember when you last looked at your keys. You might have lost them when you brought in groceries or put them in your pocket as you ran an run. The process of retracing your steps will aid in finding your keys in no time at all.
If retracing steps isn't working, try writing all the places you visited during the day. This will trigger your memory and give you the clue you need to find your keys. After you've written down all possible places your keys could be, make sure you check each place again. You might find that keys "drift" on the floor, side or under something, and you can pick them up exactly where you left them.
Look Inside Your Car
A few years ago the idea of losing or misplacing a car key was not a big issue. The majority of people had spare keys connected to their car in a small container that was tacked to the inside of the bumper. Nowadays, however, cars are becoming more technologically advanced and keys are more likely to be lost. Replacing a stolen or lost car key can take multiple steps and could cost hundreds of dollars based on the car's type and year of manufacture. It is important to always keep a spare car key in the event that you lose your original.
Before you start freaking out about losing your only car key, take an exhale and try to stay calm. Once you've managed your emotions you can begin to work through the steps to find it. Retrace your steps, and try to remember when you last held your keys. It's normal to hold keys while you reach for something other, and they could end up on the on the floor, but you aren't able to see them.
Then, go through your vehicle. Pay special attention to the areas where you usually place them. You may have left them on the dashboard when you stepped out of your car to go into a shop or perhaps you went to your bag to grab snacks and accidentally threw them out.
Take a look in your pockets, purses and bags. It's easy to forget about things that are in the pockets of your coat or a large bag, so be sure to empty them out and scrutinize every crevice.
If you still can't find your keys, it's time to contact a locksmith and ask for help. If you have a traditional metal key without any electronic components, you can obtain a replacement right away. If you have a key fob that has chip and is it is a newer model, you'll be required to contact the dealer to request a new one.
Make sure you are aware of your hide spots
It's easy to forget your keys when you're busy. If you were hurrying to leave or distracted by a meal while you talked on the phone or lost them, it's easy to lose keys. The good news is that most people have spare keys they keep in their home or office that can be located in the correct spot. It is crucial to examine every place you've hidden your spare key. This includes obvious places such as backpacks, purses or a sofa pocket or a pile on your desk, or a dresser drawer. If you have a friend with you ask them to look over the same places as well.
T here are also magnetic boxes and mini-vaults that are designed to stick onto your vehicle to allow you to keep a spare key inside it. These are perfect to hide keys since they won't fall off when you drive on bumps and will protect your key against the elements. Many of these storage devices also feature combination locks so that even if the key to a relative they won't be able to open it without you.
A fake rock with an inside compartment is another method to keep keys hidden. This is a great option for outdoor areas. However, you must be aware of the fact that burglars often search for these items. If you choose to employ this method, you could employ a dark duct tap to make it more difficult for thieves to spot.
The hood is one last place to check. This is a great place to conceal a key for the gas cap, if you have one. It won't be noticeable. Make sure you use a heavy-duty piece of tape to ensure that the key won't fall off or scratch the paint on your car when you try to remove it.
Car keys lost can be a major hassle, but there are ways to lessen their impact on your day-to-day life. By taking a few minutes to retract your steps by scouring all of the most commonly used hiding places and contacting an expert locksmith in your area to locate your keys and not waste any unnecessary time or money.
Call a Locksmith
If you've lost the car key and you've lost it, you must contact a locksmith. They'll be able to help you recover the key quickly, and also be able to advise you on how to avoid this from happening in the future. If you know someone who has a car key duplication shop nearby, that's a different option however, remember that these types of businesses often need to have the exact make, model and year of your car in order to duplicate a key correctly.
If your car is an older model, or uses a smart key fob you'll need to go to your dealer for a new replacement. It can be expensive, especially if they need to order the correct key for your vehicle, and it can take a few days or even weeks.
One thing that a lot of people don't know is that a professional locksmith can usually offer the same services as a dealership, but at less cost. Many insurance policies also cover locksmith costs or towing costs in the event of a lost or stolen key, and some even provide roadside assistance and provide professionals to your home to help you get back in your car.
It's important to verify the coverage of your comprehensive auto insurance before choosing the dealer. It's important to report your keys as soon as you can. This helps to ensure that no one else will have access to your car without your permission, and also keeps you safe in the event of being attacked or robbed. By declaring your keys, you will also alert police officers to anyone who might attempt to use your vehicle illegally. In the worst-case scenario, it could also protect you from criminal charges in the event that someone tries to take your car. It is essential not to be frightened if you lose the keys to your car. Instead, try the steps listed above and ask for the help of a family member if needed.