How to Recover a Lost Car Key
The loss of your car keys can be a stressful event. But, replace lost car key is important to keep your cool and be aware that losing your keys does not have to be a huge issue.
Key fobs that are modern are more sophisticated than traditional keys, which only opened doors and turned on the ignition. It is important to know what to do in the event you lose yours to avoid paying a high replacement cost.
Retract Your Steps
Lost car keys can be a nightmare for any driver. There are fortunately, a variety of ways you can recover your keys.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. This simple trick can be very helpful in locating keys that have been lost. It's possible that you put them in a flurry and forgot about them. It's helpful to trace your steps back so that you remember where you were when you last saw them. It's also recommended to go through any places you've visited recently, even if they aren't places where you typically store your keys. It's possible that your keys fell out of a bag or pocket and are buried somewhere that you didn't think to.
Another method to locate keys that are lost is using the tracker. This device is small and attached to your keys. You can then use an app to locate them. This is only possible in the event that you have electronic components in your keys, such as remote key fobs.
If you don't have a tracker or you're unable to find your keys, the next step is to call a local locksmith for your vehicle. They will be able to assist you in creating a brand new key and reprogram it to the immobilizer system of your vehicle. This service is costly and cost up to several hundred dollars.
Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, you could have to get towed to a dealership to get replacement keys. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and make sure you take preventative measures to avoid losing keys in the first place.
The most important thing to keep in mind when you lose your car keys is to remain calm. It's easy to get anxious when you're unable to locate your keys, but it'll be a lot more difficult to locate them if you start yelling at yourself. If you can't find your keys in an acceptable amount of time then it's probably time to contact a locksmith or go to the dealership. No matter what you decide to do, be sure to tell your insurance company so they will be able to assist in the event of damage to your vehicle in the future.
Check Your Hide Spots
It is crucial to choose the location where passers-by will not be able to see your spare key. You'll become a target for thieves in the event that you don't. Many people store their spare keys in a flower pot or planter however this is not a good idea. If a burglar discovers your keys, they could also discover your wallet and other valuables.
Another favorite place to hide is behind the door, but this can be tricky to access in the event that you're locked out. Special locks that look like normal locks and attach to the inside your door are available, however they can be costly. You can conceal the key in grass or under a mat. Some people also make fake rocks that appear normal, but conceal a compartment for the key.
The key is also often kept in the car, however this is a risky option. Thieves are aware of this technique, and they may also be able to access the gas cap from outside. If you're concerned about this, consider getting an electronic key holder that attaches to the underside of your vehicle. It resembles a license plate but is designed to conceal the spare key.
You can also put the key in your garage, especially in the event that it is not connected. 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 an extension ladder.
Vinyl siding can also be an ideal hiding spot because there are sometimes tiny splits that you can slip the key through. Tie a piece of fishing line to the key, and then slide it into the split until an inch or two of it is visible. This will stop the key from sliding if you accidentally run into it while searching for it.
If you have lots of trees on your property, you may also try nailing the spare key to the bottom of one of the branches. If you live in an area with many trees it is a good option. Many people don't think to look here to find your keys.
Try turning off the car.
Until recently the loss of your car key was not a huge issue. Locksmiths could be called to help, and the price was typically about $20. Nowadays, cars are more and more technologically advanced and are more expensive to replace.
To start the engine of a modern vehicle, there is a special computer chip that communicates with the vehicle's ECU. Without this, the car will not turn on. It is essential to have the correct key.
If you have an older traditional key, you might be able find it inside the lock, and then start the car. If this doesn't work, it may be time to call an locksmith or your car dealer to have a replacement key made.
Another option is to try starting the car with a spare key. Many new manual vehicles come with a spare key, and this is your best option. This is a little more risky and it depends on the particular vehicle you drive but it could work.
This technique also requires technical expertise and a toolbox. It also involves disassembling a part of the engine and isn't advisable for all. This kind of work is best left to a professional, especially since you'll be ignoring many safety features in the car.
It's always recommended to have a backup car key in case you lose one. The cheapest option is to have a traditional key made, however you can also get a transponder or smart key. These are more expensive to replace and requires a trip to the dealership for a new one that's been electronically paired with your car.
Walk Back Through Your Day
It's all too common The car keys. It's among the most annoying things you can do because it instantly ruins your day. You're going be late for work, and your chores will not be completed. Worse yet, you may be required to pay to replace the key fob when you're renting the car. It doesn't have to be like this. You can stop losing your keys from damaging your day if you follow these simple steps.
Do not be afraid to start panicking. Take a deep breath to relax and allow you to think clearly. You can also write down your location so you can return to find out where you left your keys.
If you aren't able to remember the exact location you left them, start by walking through your day. If you lost them when you were running errands, return to each stop and think about what you were doing. Did you put them on the counter? Perhaps you were grabbing something out of your bag when they were knocked loose. Try to remember exactly the location you saw them.
Take a look around. You might have put them in a pocket of your jacket or in a bag you carried around. You should look in places you wouldn't normally think of looking, such as the pockets of clothing worn by others or under cushions on couches.
If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, think about getting help from someone. Ask your friends if they've ever seen them or, better yet seek out an expert locksmith for assistance. The most important thing you don't want to do is end up paying for a new key or even worse, having your car stolen. An expert can assist you to get your keys back fast and efficiently. It is also recommended to have an extra key. Keep it in a safe location.