How to Recover a Lost Car Key
The loss of your car key could be an incredibly stressful situation. Be calm and try to keep in mind that losing your car keys is not a big deal.
Modern key fobs are also smarter than the traditional keys, which only opened doors and then turned on the ignition. It is important to know what to do in the event that you lose your key to ensure that you don't need to shell out a large amount to replace it.
Retract Your Steps
Lost car keys are a nightmare scenario for any driver. Thankfully, there are several options to recover your keys.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. It might sound simple, but it can be very effective in finding your lost keys. It's possible that you tossed them down in a rush and forgot about them. Retracing your steps will help you remember where you were when you last saw them. It's also recommended to go through any areas you have visited recently, even if they aren't the usual places to store your keys. It's quite possible that your keys got tossed out of a pocket or bag, and are hiding in a place you didn't think of.
Another method to locate keys that are lost is using a tracker. The device is small and attaches to your keys. You can then use an app to locate them. This is only possible when you have electronic components inside your keys, like a remote key fob.
Contacting a locksmith in your area is the next step if you don't have a tracker device, or can't find your keys. They'll be able to assist you in creating a brand new key and reprogram it to your vehicle's immobilizer system. However this service is usually expensive and could cost a few hundred dollars.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you could need to be towed to the dealership in order to get your keys replaced. It is a good idea to keep a spare set keys in your car, and to take preventative steps to ensure you don't lose your keys in the first place.
If you lose your keys, the most important thing to do is remain calm. It's easy to get stressed when you are unable to locate your keys, but it will be much harder to find them if you begin shouting at yourself. If you are unable to locate your keys within an acceptable timeframe it could be the right time to contact a locksmith or go to the dealership. No matter what you decide to do, make sure to tell your insurance company so that they can assist if something happens to your vehicle in the future.
Make sure you are aware of your hide spots
It's important that you choose an area where people will not be able to see your spare key. You'll be vulnerable to theft in the event that you don't. Many people store their extra keys in a flower pot or planter This is a mistake. If a burglar gets keys, he could also find valuables, such as your wallet.
Another favorite place to hide is behind the door, however it can be difficult to access when you're locked out. There are locks that are attached to the inside of your door and look similar to a regular lock, but these are typically quite costly. You can hide the key under a mat. Some people use fake rocks with a compartment hidden inside them.
It is not unusual to keep the key in the car. However, this can be risky. This trick is well-known to thieves, who might be able to access the gas cap on the outside. If you're worried about this, think about purchasing a magnetic key holder that can be attached to the underneath of your vehicle. It resembles the license plate but is designed to hide the spare key.
Garages are another great place to hide your key, particularly if you have a detached garage. If you don't have a ladder keys hidden in a corner in the side of your garage will be hidden from sight.
Vinyl siding is also an excellent hiding spot, as there are often 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 in until only small amounts of it are visible. This will stop the key from sliding if you accidentally hit it while looking for it.
You can also nail the spare key to the end of the tree's branch if you have a lot of trees on your property. If you live in an area with lots of trees, this is a great alternative. Many people don't consider looking to find your keys.
Try turning off the car.
In the past, losing your car key was not a huge issue. Locksmiths could be called to assist and the cost was usually about $20. Today, cars are becoming more and more advanced in terms of technology which makes them more expensive to replace.
In order to start the engine of a modern vehicle there is a specific computer chip that communicates with the vehicle's ECU. Without this, the car won't start. It's vital to have the correct key.
It is possible to start your car using an older style traditional key. If this doesn't work, you may have to speak with a locksmith in order to create a new key or contact your dealership for assistance.
Another option is to try starting the car with an extra key. Many new manual vehicles have spare keys key, and this is your best option. This is a little more risky and depends on the particular car you drive but it could work.
This technique also requires technical expertise and a toolbox. It involves removing a part of the engine and isn't advisable for everyone. It is better to leave it to a professional to take care of this kind of work, especially since you'll be ignoring some of the safety features that are in the car.
A spare car key is always an excellent idea in the event that you misplace your original. The most affordable option is to have an old-fashioned key made, however you can also purchase a transponder or smart key. They're more expensive to replace and will require a trip to the dealership for a new key that's been electronically paired with your vehicle.
Review your day
It's been seen by everyone The car keys. It's one of the most stressful things you can do because it can make your day miserable. replacing lost car keys 'll be late for work, and your chores aren't going to be completed. Even worse, you could be required to pay to replace the key fob in case you're renting a car. But, it doesn't need to be this way. Follow replacing lost car keys to avoid losing your keys ruining your day.
First first, don't get stressed. Relax and take deep breaths to relax and help you focus. You can also record your location so you can return to find out where you left your keys.
If you can't remember where you put them down, start by walking through your day. If you lost them while you were out running errands, return to every stop and consider the things you were doing. Did you put them on the counter? You may have tossed them loose after you took something from your bag. Try to remember exactly where you saw them.
After you've gone back through your day, check everywhere else. You may have put them in a pocket inside the jacket you were wearing or inside a bag you took with you. Look in places that you wouldn't normally think to look for items, such as the pockets of clothing worn by others, or under cushions on couches.
If you're still unable to locate your car keys, think about calling someone for help. Ask your friends whether they've seen keys, or better yet call a locksmith. The last thing you want to do is end up paying for a new key, or worse, having your car stolen. A professional can assist you in getting your keys quickly and efficiently. It's also a good idea for you to have a spare car key, so make sure you keep it in a secure place.