10 Quick Tips On Lost My Car Keys
Lost My Car Keys? Here's What to Do
You will lose your keys at some point, no matter how well organized you are. If this happens it's crucial to know what to do.
It is recommended to contact an auto locksmith or a dealership, based on your vehicle. They can design keys for replacement for your vehicle.
1. Retract your steps
There are few things that are more difficult than losing the keys to your car. It can ruin your day, cause anxiety, and even trigger unpleasant phone calls from strangers. It doesn't matter whether you are a meticulously organized person or not losing your keys could occur to anyone.
The best case scenario is that they turn up exactly where you left them (Parent Logic would argue this is the norm). However it is possible for the situation to be much more serious. If you lose your keys, it is essential to remain calm and retrace the steps.
Keep in mind that many things are not lost forever and can be located in the most unlikely places. Before you resort to drastic measures, it is recommended to go back and trace your steps. Bring lost car keys to search for dark corners and drawers. You could also invite a family or friend member to help you search for a second pair of eyes is often helpful.
2. Check the Inside
If you are unable to locate your keys after retracing your steps and examining common areas like key hooks check inside bags, pockets and jackets that you have recently worn or used. If you've lost them in the store, talk to employees or customers to see if they noticed something unusual.
It might seem obvious to look in your bags and pockets for the missing car keys However, it's essential to do it thoroughly. Clean your pockets, including those on purses and jackets. Check the zippered areas. You should also look in the recycling and trash bins to see if any of your keys have disappeared from your bag.
It might be beneficial to go back again and look for places you know they're not like the freezer or refrigerator. Sometimes, items are lost when we reach for them but then slam them away and forget about them.
3. Check the Outside
You've been working hard all day and are now ready to go home put on your comfy sweats, order pizza and on your favorite TV show. You find that your car keys are missing.
Examine desks and pockets that are overly filled with. 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 favorite place to hide. If you decide to do this be sure you are able to open the gas cap on your car from outside. Otherwise, a thief could be able to spot you hiding your keys under your car.
You can also put your keys in a nook on the dashboard or under the seats. Just be careful that you don't secure them too tightly or you'll accidentally crush them when you shut the car door.
4. Call the police
Sometimes, we forget things because we are just a little distracted. You could be running a quick errand, and you've left your keys on the car seat. Perhaps you require two hands to carry the groceries. It happens to everyone.
It is essential to notify the police immediately if you have lost any item. This way, you can file a report and help keep your car safe from thieves. This is essential if you lose your keys outside your home, at the shop, or anywhere else in public.
Make sure you retrace all of your steps before you begin. Recreate the scene that you experienced the time you last saw your keys in your mind. Asking other people around you whether they've seen your keys is also a good idea. This will help keep your vehicle safe and stop other people from using it. (This could result in additional expenses such as new door locks and ignition). It is a good idea in the event that you have a spare car key to duplicate it in the event that you lose it again.
5. Call a Locksmith
People often forget where they placed their keys, especially if they're distracted or in a rush. There are a few easy things you can try to aid.
Retrace the steps you've taken and searching for the areas you believe they may have been left. If you're still unable to locate them, try checking in the car itself. It's not common for people to lose their keys in the visor or on the keychain.
Lastly, call an locksmith to find out if they can assist you in finding your keys that have disappeared. They may be able cut you a key or change the locks if required. They also have the tools and know-how to remove bent or broken keys from locked doors.
Be prepared to provide proof of ownership when you call a locksmith. You can do this by using your vehicle's registration or title. You may have to wait several days for a dealer to send you a replacement key, according to your particular situation.
6. Call Your Insurance Agent
There are times when you're unable to locate your car keys and it can put a major damper on your day. You might have been running a quick errand when you accidentally left your keys on the seat, or you could have sat down to get something to grab for a second and lost track.
Reporting a lost or stolen key to the police as quickly as you can is vital. This will leave a trail on paper and can to stop others from using your vehicle without your permission. It also stops you from being penalized.
If you've reported your keys as lost to the police the homeowner's insurance might be able to cover them as they're personal property. But, it's advisable to speak with your agent to confirm that you're covered before you file an claim.
You should consider investing in a Bluetooth tracking device such as Apple AirTags or Tiles. This will help you avoid the stress of having to replace your car keys, and ensure that you always have your keys in reach.
7. Get a Bluetooth Key Tracker
Sometimes, you'll lose your keys when you least would. You could be on the run and do not remember to put them on the seat or might be getting out of your car after an extended day at work and you can't remember where you put them.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent this from happening in the future. One of the best options is to use a Bluetooth key tracker. These tiny devices can be connected to a wallet or keyring and connect to an app on your phone. The app will ring or flash once you open it to aid you in finding your keys. These Bluetooth trackers feature community features that allow others to assist you in locating the keys if they are out of reach.
Another excellent way to avoid losing your keys is to always put them in the same spot each time you arrive home. It doesn't matter if put them in an table in the entryway or on an iron by the door. Making this routine a habit will make it easier to find your keys in the future.
8. Get a Replacement Key
If you've lost your vehicle keys or they've been stolen, the most important thing to do is to inform your insurance provider right away. You can be assured that your claim will be handled properly if anything happens to the vehicle in the future.
If you already have an ordinary (non-chip) key, you can easily get a new one from any hardware or locksmith. This is typically the fastest and cheapest option.
It might be more difficult for cars that have an electronic key and an electronic fob. You'll have to visit your local dealer to purchase a new key. Based on the model and make of your car this could cost you upwards of $200.
To avoid this, ensure that you have a spare key to keep it somewhere other than your keys. Cleaning out your office or home is also a good idea, particularly in areas where you lose things.