How to Recover a Lost Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a stressful event. You should remain calm and keep in mind that losing your car keys isn't a big deal.
Modern key fobs are also smarter than the traditional keys that only opened doors and switched on the ignition. It is important to know what to do in the event you lose your keys to avoid paying a high replacement cost.
Retract your steps
A lost car key is an absolute nightmare for any driver. There are a few ways to get your keys back.
The first thing you must do is retrace your steps. This simple method can be extremely helpful in locating keys lost. You might have lost them in a hurry and forgot about them. The process of retracing your steps can help you remember where you were when you last saw them. You should also check any places you've visited recently, even if you do not normally keep your keys in a safe place. It's entirely possible that your keys fell out of a pocket or bag, and are hiding somewhere you wouldn't expect.
Trackers are another excellent method of locating your keys that are lost. The device is small and attaches to your keys. car keys lost replacement can then use an app to locate them. This is only possible if your keys are equipped with an electronic component, such as remote key fobs.
Contacting a local locksmith is the next step if you don't have a tracking device, or if you cannot locate your keys. They will be able to help you create a new key and reprogram the key to the immobilizer system of your vehicle. However, this service is typically expensive and can cost a few hundred dollars.
You might need to have your vehicle towed to a dealer in order to get keys replaced. It is best to have a spare key available and make sure you take preventative measures to avoid losing them in the first place.
The most important thing to remember when you've lost your car keys is to stay calm. When you can't locate your keys it's easy to panic. But if you start screaming at yourself, it will make it harder to locate them. If you are unable to locate your keys in an acceptable timeframe, it might be the right time to call a locksmith or visit the dealership. Whatever you decide to do, make sure to tell your insurance company so they will be able to assist in the event of damage to your vehicle in the future.
Be aware of your hiding spots
If you want to hide your spare key it is important to pick an area that isn't easily visible to passers-by. Otherwise, you'll be an easy target for thieves. A plant pot or flower box is the usual place where people store their extra keys, but this could be a huge mistake. If a burglar gets the keys, they could also discover valuables such as your wallet.
A popular hideaway is behind the front door. However, this can be difficult to gain access to in the event that you are locked out. You can buy special locks that are attached to the inside of your door and look similar to a regular lock, but they are usually quite expensive. A less expensive option is to put the key beneath the door mat or in the grass. Some people use fake rocks with a hidden compartment within the rocks.
It is not uncommon to store keys in the car. However, this can be risky. Thieves are aware of this trick and could be able to access the gas cap from the outside. If you're worried about this, consider getting an electronic key holder that attaches to the underneath of your vehicle. It looks like the license plate but is designed to hide the spare key.
You can also conceal the key in your garage, particularly when it's not attached. A key that is hidden into a corner on the side of your garage door will remain out of reach and inaccessible unless you have a ladder.
Vinyl siding also makes for an ideal hiding spot because there are often slight splits that you can slide the key through. 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 when you happen to run into it when you are searching for it.
You can also nail the spare key at the end of the tree's branch if you have a lot of trees on your property. This is a good choice if you reside in a rural area with plenty of trees as most people don't think of checking this area to find your keys.
Try Turning the Car On
Not too long ago the loss of your car keys wasn't a big problem. Locksmiths could be called to help, and the price was usually around $20. However, today automobiles are becoming increasingly technologically advanced, which can make them more expensive to replace should you lose one.
A specific computer chip is required to turn on an engine in a brand new car. It communicates with the ECU. The car will not start without this chip. This is the reason it's vital to ensure that you have the proper key for your vehicle.
If you have an older style traditional key, you might be able find it in the lock and still begin the vehicle. If this doesn't work, you may need to speak with a locksmith in order to create a new key or contact your dealership for assistance.
You could also try to start the car using an extra key. This is a good option for the majority of new manual cars, as they come with a spare key. This is a bit riskier and it will depend on the particular vehicle you drive but it could work.
This method also requires some technical knowledge and tools. This method involves removing an engine component and is not recommended for all. It's better to let a professional take care of this type of job particularly since you'll bypass some of the safety features that are in the vehicle.
A backup car key is always a good idea in case you misplace your original. You can get a traditional key, but a smart key or transponder is also available. These are more expensive to replace and requires a trip to the dealership to purchase a new one that has connected electronically to your car.
Walk Back Through Your Day
It's been seen by everyone The car keys. It's the most annoying thing you can do, because it can ruin your day. You're going be late for work, and your errands won't get done. And, worse yet, you might be required to pay to replace the key fob when you're renting cars. But, it doesn't have to be this way. You can avoid the loss of your keys from damaging your day if you follow these simple steps.
First of all, don't panic. Take a deep breath to relax and help you focus. You can also record your location so that you can revisit to find where you left your keys.
If you're unable to remember where you put them down begin by walking through your day. If you've lost your keys while doing errands or shopping, return and review each visit. Did you set them down on a counter somewhere? Perhaps you were taking something from your bag when they were knocked loose. Make sure you remember exactly where you were when you saw them.
You should also look elsewhere. You may have put them in a pocket in the jacket you wore or inside bags you brought with you. Check places you would not typically think about, such as the pockets of clothes worn by others or under the couch cushion.
If you are unable to find your car keys, call someone to help. Ask your friends if they've ever seen them or, better yet seek out an expert locksmith for help. You don't want to end up paying for a new key, or worse, having your vehicle stolen. A professional can help you locate your keys quickly and efficiently. It is also recommended to have a spare key. Keep it in a safe location.