How to Recover a Lost Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a stressful event. You should remain calm and remember that losing your car keys isn't an issue.
Key fobs that are modern are smarter than traditional keys, which opened doors and then turned on the ignition. You need to know what you should do in the event that you lose your keys to avoid paying a costly replacement cost.
Retract your Steps
Lost car keys are an unimaginable scenario for any driver. Thankfully, there are several ways you can recover your keys.
The first thing you must do is trace your steps. This simple technique can be very useful in finding lost keys . You may have dropped them in a hurry and then forgotten about them. You can go back to remember where you were the last time you were able to see them. You should also look for places you've visited recently, even if you don't normally keep your keys there. It's possible that your keys have fallen out of a pocket or bag and are in a place you would not think of.
Another great way to find keys that are lost is using the tracker. This device is small, and it is attached to the keys. You can then use an app to locate the keys. This is only possible if the keys have electronic components, such as a remote key fob.
If you do not have a tracking device or are unable to locate your keys, the next course of action is to contact a local locksmith for your vehicle. They can assist you with the creation of a new key, and then reprogram it to your vehicle's anti-theft system. This service is costly and cost up to hundreds of dollars.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may need to be towed to the dealer to get your keys replaced. It's a good idea keep a spare set of keys in your possession and take preventative measures to ensure you don't lose your keys in the first place.
When you lose your keys, the most important thing is to remain calm. It's easy to get anxious when you're unable to locate your keys, but it will be much more difficult to locate them if you start shouting at yourself. If you're unable to locate your keys in an acceptable amount of time, it might be time to contact an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. Regardless of what you do, make sure to inform your insurance provider about the incident so they can assist if something happens to your car in the future.
Check Your Hide Spots
It is crucial to choose a place where passersby will not be able to see your spare key. Otherwise, you're making yourself an easy target for thieves. Many people store their spare keys in the form of a planter or flower pot This is not a good idea. If a burglar discovers your keys, they might also discover your wallet and other valuables.
Another favorite place to hide is behind the door, however it can be difficult to gain access to when you're locked out. Special locks that look like normal locks and fit to the door's interior are available, however they can be expensive. It is possible to hide the key in the grass or under a mat. Some people also make fake rocks that appear like normal but have a hidden compartment for the key.
It is not unusual to store keys in the car. However, this could be risky. This technique is well-known to thieves, who may be able to access the gas cap on the outside. If you're concerned about this, you should consider purchasing an magnetic key holder that attaches to the underneath of your vehicle. It resembles the license plate but is designed to hide the spare key.
You can also conceal the key in your garage, particularly in the event that it is not connected. If you don't have a ladder, keys placed in a small space along the side of your garage will be hidden from sight.
Vinyl siding also makes for an excellent hiding place, since there are sometimes slight splits that you can slip the key through. Attach a fishing line to the key, and then slide it into the split until the smallest amount of it is visible. This will prevent the key from slipping out if you accidentally bump it while looking for it.
You can also place the spare key to the base of a tree branch if you have a lot of trees on your property. If you reside in an area that has many trees this is a great alternative. Many people don't consider looking for keys.
Try turning the car on
Not long ago the loss of your car keys was no big problem. A locksmith was available to assist and the cost was typically around $20. Today, however, cars are getting increasingly technologically advanced, which could make them more expensive to replace should you break one.
A specific computer chip is needed to start an engine in a new car. It communicates with the ECU. The car will not start without this chip. It is essential to have the correct key.
You might be able to start your car using an older traditional style key. If this doesn't work, you may need to call a locksmith to create a new key or contact your car dealership.
Another option is starting the car using an extra key. Many new manual cars have spare keys key, so this could be your best option. This option is more risky and will depend on the car, but it might be successful.
This method also requires some technical knowledge and an arsenal of tools. This process also involves disassembling the engine and is not recommended for all. This kind of work should be done by a professional, especially since you'll be ignoring many safety features of the vehicle.
A spare car key is always an excellent idea in the event that you lose the original. The cheapest alternative is to get an old-fashioned key made, but you can also purchase an electronic transponder or smart key. These are more expensive to replace and requires an excursion to the dealer to purchase a new one that has connected electronically to your car.
Walk Back Through Your Day
Everybody has experienced this You lose your car keys. It's among the most annoying things you can do since it immediately ruins your day. You'll be late to work, and your errands will not be completed. You may even need to pay to replace your key fob when renting a vehicle. It doesn't have to be like this. You can avoid the loss of your keys from ruining your day if follow these simple steps.
First first, don't get stressed. Relaxing will help you calm down and focus your thoughts. You can also note your location so you can revisit to find where you left your keys.
If you are unable to remember where you placed them go back through your day. If you've lost them while you were running errands to each stop and think about the things you were doing. Did you place them on a counter? Perhaps you were taking something from your bag and they were accidentally tossed around. Make sure you remember exactly where you last saw them.
Once you've walked back through your day, check everywhere else. You might have tucked them away in a jacket pocket or a bag that you carried. Check places you would not normally think to look, such as the pockets of clothes worn by others, or under a couch cushion.
If you can't locate your car keys, contact someone for help. Ask your friends to see if they have seen keys, or better yet contact a locksmith. The last thing you want to do is end up paying for a replacement key, or worse, having your vehicle stolen. An expert can help you get your keys back quickly and efficiently. It's also a good idea for you to have an extra car key so be sure to keep it in a safe place.