What to Do If You Lose Your Only Car Key
In the whirlwind of life - kids, errands work and socializing with friends things get lost. It's not always the major stuff. Sometimes it's just the tiniest things like keys.
For most vehicles, a new key can be made at the local hardware store, along with proof of ownership (car registration or title). This is a cost-effective alternative.
Retract your Steps
It can be a nightmare to lose your sole car keys and be unable to get into your car. You can lose time, money and peace of your mind. The first thing to do when you lose the sole key to your vehicle is to stay calm. Panicking will not help you locate your keys quicker, and it could even make the situation worse.
Start by trying remembering the last time you saw them. You may have dropped them when you brought your groceries in or perhaps you put them in your pocket as you were out running an outing. Retracing your steps can aid in finding your lost keys in a matter of minutes.
If retracing your steps does not work, try writing down all of the places you have been throughout the day. This could trigger your memory and provide you with the clue you need to locate your keys. Once you've jotted down all the possible places your keys could be, double check each place again. Sometimes, keys "drift" to the floor, side or even under something and you might just be in a position to retrieve them exactly where you left them.
Look Inside Your Car
Not so long ago, misplacing--or even losing--a car key was not a big deal. In the past, a majority of people kept spare keys in a small, tin-like box that was that was attached to their vehicle. However, as cars become more technologically advanced keys are more likely now to get lost. Replacing a stolen or lost car key can take multiple steps and could cost hundreds of dollars, depending on the vehicle type and the year of manufacture. It is important to always have a spare car key in the event that you lose your original.
Before you begin to panic about losing your car's only key Take your breath and try to stay calm. Once you've managed your emotions you can begin to work through the steps to locate it. Begin by retracing your steps and think about when you last had the keys in your hands. It's not uncommon to juggle your keys while you grab other things, and sometimes they end in the back of your car where they aren't visible.
Then, thoroughly search your vehicle. Pay particular attention to the places you typically place them. You might have accidentally thrown the items out of your bag, or placed them on your car's dashboard when you got out of your vehicle to go to an establishment.
It is also important to check your pockets, purses, and bags. You may forget to check your deep pockets or large bags.
If you're still having trouble finding your keys, you need to contact a locksmith for help. If you have an old-fashioned key made of metal with no electronic components, you can request an immediate replacement. If you have a key fob with chip and is an older model, you'll need to contact the dealership to request a new one.
Check Your Hide Spots
It's easy to forget your keys when you're working. It doesn't matter if you were rushing to leave or distracted by a sandwich while talking on the phone or forgot them, it is easy to lose them. car keys lost replacement is that the majority of people have spare keys they keep in their home or office that can be easily located in the right place. It is essential to look over every place where you've put your spare key. Included in this are obvious places such as backpacks, purses or a pocket on the sofa or even a stack on your desk, or a dresser drawer. Have a friend do the same.
There are also several magnetic boxes and mini-vaults made to stick onto your vehicle so that you can stash a spare key in it. They are great to hide keys since they aren't able to be smashed off accidentally when you drive over a bump, and they will also shield your key from the elements. Many of these storage devices also come with combination locks, which means that even if you give the key to a relative they won't be able to open it without your permission.
A fake rock with an enclosed compartment is another popular trick to keep keys hidden. This is a good option for outdoor areas. However, you should be aware of the fact that burglars are often looking for these items. If you do opt to go this route make sure you use dark duct tape to make it more difficult for thieves to detect.
One final place to check is the hood of your car. This is a great place to conceal a key for the gas cap, if you have one. It won't be noticeable. Make sure you use a heavy-duty piece of tape so that the key doesn't fall off or scratch the paint on your car when you attempt to take it out.
Lost car keys can be a huge hassle, but there are ways to minimize the impact they have on your day to day life. You can find your keys by retracing Your Steps and checking the most likely hiding spots. A local locksmith will also save you time and money.
Call an expert locksmith
If you lose the car key and you've lost it, you must contact a locksmith. They'll be able to help you recover it quickly, and they'll also be able to guide you on ways to prevent this from happening in the future. You can also try contacting the local key duplication company. But, they'll need the exact make, model and year of your car to duplicate the key.
You'll have visit your dealer if your car is an older model or uses a smart fob. This can be expensive particularly when the dealer must purchase a new key for your vehicle. It could also take days or weeks.
A thing that many do not realize is that a professional locksmith will typically provide the same service as dealers, but at a fraction of the cost. Many insurance policies also provide for locksmith charges or towing in the case of a stolen or lost key, and some provide roadside assistance and send professionals to your home to help you get back in your car.
It's worth checking the coverage of your comprehensive auto insurance prior to selecting an agent. You should also report your keys to the police as soon as you can. This will ensure that no one else will have access to your car without permission, and it also keeps you safe in the event of being victimized by a robber or attacked. The act of reporting your keys will let police officers be on watch for anyone trying to use your vehicle for illegal purposes. In the event of a worst-case scenario you could be protected from criminal charges if someone attempts to take your vehicle. The most important thing to keep in mind when you lose your only car key is that you shouldn't panic. Try the above steps and, if necessary get a family member or friend family to help.