What to Do If You Lose Your Only Car Key
In the whirlwind of life - kids, errands, work and socializing with friends - things are lost. Sometimes it's the little things like keys.
For most vehicles, a new key can be created at your local hardware store along with proof of ownership (car registration or title). This is a cost-effective alternative.
Retract Your Steps
There is nothing more frustrating than losing your only car key and not being able get in your vehicle. You can be a victim of time, money and peace of mind. However, the first thing you must do when you lose the only car key you have is to stay calm. Doing your best to panic won't help you locate your keys quicker and could make the situation even worse.
Start by trying to recall the last time you looked at your keys. You might have lost them when you brought groceries in or put them in your pocket as you were running an outing. It is possible to locate your keys by following your steps.
If you are unable to trace your steps, and it doesn't work, you can try recording all the places you've been throughout the day. This could trigger your memory and give you the clue you need to locate your keys. Check every spot you wrote down. It is possible that keys "drift" on the floor, side or underneath something, and you'll be able to pick them up exactly where you left.
Look Inside Your Car
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing, or losing a car keys was not a big deal. The majority of people had spare keys connected to their car in a little box stuck to the inside of the bumper. However, as cars become more technologically advanced keys are more likely to disappear. Replacing a lost or stolen car key may require multiple steps and could cost hundreds of dollars, depending on the vehicle type and year of manufacture. It is essential to have a spare key for your car in case you lose your original.
Take your time before you panic about losing your car key. Try to remain calm. Once you've got your emotions under control, you can work through the steps to find it. Follow your steps and try to recall the last time you held your keys. It's common to juggle keys while you reach for something else, and they can end up on the car floor, where you can't see them.
The next step is thoroughly search your vehicle, particularly the areas where you typically put them. You may have accidentally knocked the items out of your bag or left them on your car's dashboard when you exited your vehicle to go to a store.
Take a look in your pockets, purses and bags. It's easy to forget about things that are in the pockets of your coat, or in a large bag, so be sure to empty them and carefully examine every crevice.
If you're still unable to locate your keys, you need to call a locksmith and ask for assistance. If you have an old-fashioned metal key with no electronic components, a locksmith can usually make you a new one on the spot. However, if you've got a more modern key fob that has a chip, you'll need to contact your dealership and possibly provide proof of ownership to get a replacement.
Make sure you are aware of your hiding spots
It doesn't matter if you were in a rush to get out the door or distracted while trying to eat a sandwich or chat on the phone or you simply forgot your keys It's easy to forget keys when you're distracted. The good thing is that the majority of people have spare keys they keep in their home or office that can easily be located in the correct spot. If you have an extra key, it is essential to look over all the places where you have previously stored the keys. This includes obvious places like a purse or backpack or a pocket on the sofa, a pile of mail on the table, or a drawer in your dresser. Have a friend do the same.
There are also magnetic boxes and mini-vaults designed to stick onto your car so you can keep a spare key inside it. These are great to hide keys since they won't fall off by accident when you drive over bumps and they also shield your key from the elements. Many of these storage units come with combination locks, meaning even if someone gets the key but they aren't capable of opening it without your help.
Another popular trick for hiding keys is to buy fake rocks that have a hidden compartment. This is a good option for outdoor areas. However, you must be aware of the fact that burglars will often look for these items. If you do opt to go this route you can try using dark duct tape to make it harder for thieves to spot.
The hood is a final location to check. This is a great place to hide keys for the gas cap if you have one. It won't be noticeable. Use a tape that is strong to keep the key from slipping off or scratching the paint on your vehicle when you remove it.
lost car key can be a huge hassle however, there are ways to reduce the impact they have on your daily life. By taking a few minutes to retract your steps, checking all of the most common hiding spots and calling the local locksmith to retrieve your keys and avoid wasting any money or time.
Contact a Locksmith
Unless you have a spare set of keys, the best thing to do if you lose your only car key is contact locksmith. They can help you retrieve it quickly, and they'll also be able to advise you on how to avoid this from happening again. If you know someone who owns a duplication shop for car keys nearby, that's a different option, but keep in mind that these types of establishments typically require the specific model, make and year of your car in order to copy the correct key.
You'll need visit your dealer if your vehicle is an older model or uses a smart fob. It can be costly particularly if the dealer has to obtain a new key to your vehicle. It could also take days or weeks.
Many people are unaware that locksmiths can provide the same service at less than a dealership. Many insurance policies also provide for locksmith charges or towing costs in the event of a lost or stolen key, and some provide roadside assistance and provide professionals to your location to help you get back in your vehicle.
If you have comprehensive auto insurance, it's worth looking over your coverage prior to choosing a dealership. It is also important to notify the police as soon as you can. This ensures that no one else can be able to access your vehicle without permission, and it will also protect you in the event of being victimized by a robber or attacked. Notifying your keys will enable police officers to be on the lookout for anyone who might try to use your vehicle illegally. In the worst-case scenario, this could also shield you from criminal charges if someone does try to steal your car. It is important to not panic if you lose the keys to your car. Follow the steps above and, if necessary get a family member or friend family to help.