Lost my car keys (
https://Telegra.ph/)? Here's What to Do
Keys will be lost at some point, no matter how organized you are. In the event of this happening it is crucial to be aware of what to do.
You should call an auto locksmith or a dealership, depending on the vehicle. These professionals can create an alternative key for your vehicle.
1. Retract Your Steps
There aren't many things more difficult than losing the keys to your car. It can ruin your day, cause anxiety and even lead you to receive unsavory phonecalls from strangers. The loss of your keys is something that can happen to anyone regardless of how organized you are.
The ideal scenario is for them to turn up exactly where you left them (Parent Logic would argue this is the case). But, in reality, things can take a more dire turn. When you lose your keys, it's important to be calm and not panic. You can then retrace the steps.
Be aware that a lot of things aren't lost forever and can be located in the most unlikely places. Before taking drastic measures, it is recommended to go back and trace your steps. Bring a flashlight with you to search dark corners and drawers. You can also invite a family or friend member to help you search to help you, as a second set of eyes can be beneficial.
2. Check the Inside
If you are unable to locate your keys after retracing your steps and checking common places such as key hooks, look inside pockets, bags and jackets that you recently wore or used. If you've lost your keys in a store check with other shoppers or employees if they have noticed something different.
It might appear obvious to check your own pockets and bags for the missing car keys however, it's crucial to do it thoroughly. Clean your pockets, including those on purses and jackets. Examine the zippered areas. You should also check the trash and recycling bins to see if your keys have fallen out of your bag.
It may be helpful to go back again and look for places you know they're not, such as the refrigerator or freezer. Many items are lost when we reach for something, but we forget about it. then forget about it.
3. Check the Outside
You've had a long day and just want to get home, put on your comfy sweats, eat some pizza, and binge-watch your favorite show. Unfortunately, you realize the keys to your car have disappeared.
While you're retracing your steps be sure to check out areas that are cluttered such as tabletops and desks as well as the pockets of your clothing items. It's also not uncommon to leave your keys behind in a crowded spot such as in a door handle or in the refrigerator, so make sure you've thoroughly checked those areas.
Under the car is another popular hiding spot. If you decide to do this ensure that you are able to open the gas cap on your car from outside. Otherwise, a thief may be able to see you hiding your keys under your car.
You could also consider hiding your keys in a nook in the dashboard or under the seat. Make sure you don't secure them too tightly or you'll accidentally crush them as you shut the door of your car.
4. Call the Police
Sometimes, we forget things simply because we're a little bit distracted. You might be on the run for a few minutes and put your keys on the seat or you might just require two hands to pick up a bag of groceries. Whatever the reason it happens to all.
If you lose something, it's important to notify the police right immediately. You can then submit a police report in order to help protect your car from thieves. This is important when you lose your keys outside of your home, at the shop, or anywhere else in public.
Be sure to retrace every step before you begin. Recreate the scene that you experienced when you last looked at your keys in your head. Asking people around you if they've seen your keys is also a great idea. This will help to keep your car safe and also stop others from using it (which may result in extra costs like
replacing lost keys door locks and ignition). If you have a spare key it's always an excellent idea to make an exact copy of it in case this happens to you again.
5. Contact an expert locksmith
People often forget where they put their keys, especially when they're distracted or in a rush. Luckily, there are several ways you can assist.
Retrace your steps and looking for places you think you may have abandoned them. If you are still unable to locate them, make sure you check your car. It's not common for people to lose their keys under the visor or on the keychain.
Call a locksmith and ask whether they can locate your keys. They might be able to cut keys or replace your locks, if needed. They also have the tools and know-how to remove broken or bent keys from locked doors.
If you do call locksmiths, be prepared to provide proof of ownership for your vehicle. You can use your car's registration or title. Depending on the situation you may have to wait for a new key from the dealership, which can take a number of days.
6. Call Your Insurance Agent
There are occasions that you'll lose your car keys and it can put a major downer on your day. You may have been running an errand that was quick and misplaced your keys on the seat, or you could have sat down to grab something for a moment and lost track.
It's important to report
lost my car key keys immediately to the police. This will create a paper record and help prevent other people from using your vehicle without permission. It also stops you from being penalized.
Your homeowner's policy may cover your keys if you've reported them as
lost car keys replacement to the local police. They are considered personal property. However, it's best to speak with your agent to confirm that you're covered before filing an claim.
Think about investing in an Bluetooth tracking device such as Apple AirTags or Tiles. This will prevent you from having to go through the hassle of a car keys replacement and give you peace of mind knowing that your keys are always within reach.
7. Get a Bluetooth Key Tracker
Sometimes you can lose your keys when you least expect it. You might be running a quick errand and you forget to place them on the seat or may be getting out of your car after an exhausting day at work, and don't remember where you put them.
Fortunately, there are ways to stop this from happening in the near future. One of the best options is to use a Bluetooth key tracker. These tiny devices are connected to your wallet or keyring, and can connect with an app on the phone. The app will flash or ring once you open it to help you locate your keys. These Bluetooth trackers come with community features that allow other users to assist you in locating them if your keys are out of range.
Another excellent way to avoid losing your keys is to put them in the same place every time you get home. If it's on the table in your entryway or hung on a hook near the door, making a habit of this will make it easier to locate them in the future.
8. Find a replacement key
It's important to notify your insurance company immediately in the event that you lose your keys to your car, or if they are stolen. That way, you can rest assured that your claim will be dealt with in a timely manner should anything happen to the vehicle in the future.
If you have a regular key (which does not contain chips) you can simply get an alternative from any hardware store or locksmith. This is the fastest and most affordable solution.
For cars that are more modern and have a smart key that needs an electronic fob, it might be a little more difficult. You will need to visit your local dealer to purchase a new key. Based on the make and model of your car, this could cost upwards of $200.
To avoid this, ensure that you have a spare key and keep it somewhere different from your keys. Cleaning out your office or home is also a good idea, especially in areas where you can't find things.