A Guide To Lost Car Key From Start To Finish
How to Recover a Lost Car Key
The loss of your car keys can be a stressful event. But, it is important to remain calm and remember that losing your keys does not have to be a huge issue.
Modern key fobs are smarter than the traditional keys, which only opened doors and switched on the ignition. You need to know what you should do if you lose your keys to avoid paying a costly replacement fee.
Retract Your Steps
Lost car keys are an unimaginable scenario for any driver. There are several ways to get your keys back.
You should first retrace all your steps. This simple trick can be extremely helpful in finding lost keys. It is possible that you dropped them in a flurry and forgot about them. You can go back to recall where you were the last time you saw them. It's also recommended to go through any areas you have visited recently, even if they aren't places you normally store your keys. It's possible that your keys fell out of a bag or pocket and are buried somewhere you would not think of.
Trackers are another excellent way to locate your keys that are lost. It is small and it attaches to the keys. Then, you can use an app to locate them. This is only possible if your keys are equipped with an electronic component, such as a remote key fob.
If you don't have a tracking device or aren't able to locate your keys, the next step should be to contact a local automotive locksmith. They'll be able to help you create a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle's immobilizer system. However, this service is typically expensive and could cost a few hundred dollars.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you could be required to take a towed vehicle to the dealer to replace your lost keys. It's a good idea to keep a spare set keys on hand, and to take preventative steps to avoid losing your keys in the first place.
The most important thing to keep in mind when you lose your car keys is to remain calm. It's easy to get anxious when you're unable to locate your keys, but it will be much harder to find them if you start shouting at yourself. If you've not found your keys within an acceptable amount of time, it could be time to contact an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. No matter what you decide to do, be sure to inform your insurance company that you're insured so they can help if something happens to your vehicle in the future.
Make sure you are aware of your hide spots
It is crucial to choose the location where passers-by aren't able to see your spare key. Otherwise, you're making yourself an easy target for thieves. A plant pot or a flower box is the typical place where people store their extra keys, but this can be a big mistake. If a burglar gets the keys, they could also find valuables, such as your wallet.
Another common hiding spot is behind the door, however this can be tricky to gain access to if you're locked out. You can purchase locks that attach to the door's interior and look like a normal lock, but these are typically quite costly. It is possible to hide the key under a mat. Some people also use fake rocks that look normal, but conceal a compartment for the key.
The key is usually stored in the car, but this can be risky. Thieves are aware of this trick, and they may also be able of opening the gas cap by removing it from the outside. If you're concerned about this, you should purchase a magnetic key holder to attach to the underside your vehicle. It's similar to an old license plate frame, but is designed to secure the spare key in a hidden, hidden location.
You can also conceal the key in your garage, especially when it's not attached. If you don't have a ladder, the key that is placed in a small space in the side of your garage is out of sight.
Vinyl siding is also an ideal place to hide because there are usually small splits where you can slide the key. Make sure you tie a piece of clear fishing line to the key, and then slide it into the wall until only small amounts of it are visible. This will stop the key from sliding if you accidentally hit it while searching for it.
If you have lots of trees on your property, you can also try nailing the spare key to the end of a branch. This is a great option for those who live in a rural area with a lot of trees because most people don't think to check this place to find your keys.
Try turning off the car.
Not too long ago when you lost your car keys was not a big deal. A locksmith could be called to help and the cost was usually around $20. Today, cars are more and more advanced in technology and are more expensive to replace.
A specific computer chip is needed to start an engine in a new car. It communicates with the ECU. Without this, the car won't start. This is the reason it's vital to ensure you have the right key for your car.
You might be able to start your car using an older, traditional style key. If this isn't working, it could be time to contact a locksmith or call your auto dealership to have a new key made.
Another option is starting the car with a spare key. This is the best option for many new manual cars, as they have spare keys. This is a little riskier and will depend on the particular vehicle you are driving but it could work.
This technique also requires technical knowledge and a toolbox. This method also involves disassembling an engine part and is not recommended for everyone. It's better to let a professional take care of this kind of work as you'll bypass a lot of the safety features inside the car.
A backup car key is always a good idea in case you lose the original. You can get a traditional key, however the smart key or transponder is also available. They are more expensive to replace and requires a trip to the dealer to purchase a new one that has been electronically paired with your vehicle.
Take a look back at your day
It's happened to everyone: You lose your car keys. replacing lost car keys of the most frustrating things you can do since it immediately ruins your day. You'll be late for work, and your chores aren't going to be completed. You may even need to pay to replace the key fob in case you rent the vehicle. But, it doesn't need to be this way. You can prevent the loss of your keys from damaging your day if you follow these simple steps.
First first, don't get stressed. Take deep breaths to calm yourself and allow you to think clearly. It's also a good idea to note where you've been so that you can go back and find out the reason why your keys disappeared.
If you're unable to remember where they were go back through your day. If you lost your keys while doing errands or shopping, go back and review each stop. Did you set them down on some counter? Maybe you were picking something from your bag and they got accidentally tossed around. Try to remember exactly lost car keys were when you saw them.
Once you've walked back through your day, check everywhere else. You may have left them inside a jacket pocket or in a bag you carried with you. Make sure to search in places you'd never think of, such as pockets in other people's clothing or underneath a sofa cushion.
If you're unable to find your car keys, contact someone for help. Ask your friends if they've seen them, or better yet contact a professional locksmith for assistance. The last thing you want to do is end up having to pay for a replacement key, or more traumatically, having your car stolen. An expert can help get your keys quickly and efficiently. It is also recommended to have a spare key. Keep it in a secure place.