How to Recover a Lost Car Key
The loss of your car key could be a stressful and emotional situation. However, you must keep calm and keep in mind that losing your keys does not have to be a huge deal.
Modern key fobs are smarter than traditional keys, which only opened doors and turned on the ignition. You need to know what you should do in the event you lose your key to avoid paying a large replacement fee.
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 best to first retrace your steps. This simple method can be very useful in locating keys lost. You might have dropped keys in a hurry, and then forgotten about them. The process of retracing your steps can help you remember where you were when you last saw them. Also, you should check any places you've visited recently, even if you don't usually keep your keys in there. It's possible that your keys have fallen out of a pocket or bag and are in a place you wouldn't think to.
Another great way to find your lost keys is by using the tracker. This device is small and attaches to your keys. Then, you can make use of an app to locate them. This is only possible if you have electronic components in your keys, for example remote key fobs.
If you don't have a tracker or aren't able to locate your keys, your next step is to contact an auto locksmith in your area. They'll be able to assist you in creating a brand new key and reprogram it to your vehicle's immobilizer system. This service is costly and could cost you hundreds of dollars.
It is possible to take your vehicle to a dealer to get keys replaced. It is best to have a spare key on hand and take preventative measures to stop losing them 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 much more difficult to locate them if you begin shouting at yourself. If you are unable to locate your keys in an acceptable timeframe then it's probably time to contact an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. No matter what you decide to do, make sure to tell your insurance company so they can help if something happens to your vehicle in the future.
Make sure you are aware of your hiding spots
If you want to hide your spare key it is important to pick the location that's not obvious for passers-by. You'll be a target for thieves if you don't. Many people store their spare keys in plants or in a flower pot This is a mistake. If a burglar gets the keys, he may also find valuables, such as your wallet.
A popular hiding spot is behind the front door. However, it can be difficult to access when locked out. You can buy special locks that attach to the inside of your door and look similar to a regular lock, but these are usually quite expensive. A cheaper alternative is to put the key in a door mat, or in the grass. Some people employ fake rocks with a hidden compartment in them.
It is not unusual to store keys in the car. However, this can be dangerous. This technique is well-known to thieves, who may be able to open the gas cap on the outside. If you're worried about this, purchase a magnetic key holder to attach to the underside your vehicle. It resembles the license plate but is designed to hide the spare key.
The garage is a good place to hide your key, especially if you have a detached garage. If you don't have a ladder, keys hidden in a nook along the side of your garage is out of sight.
Vinyl siding also makes for an ideal hiding spot because there are sometimes tiny gaps that you can slide the key into. Connect a piece of fishing line to the key, and slide it into the split until the smallest amount of it is visible. This will stop the key from sliding if you accidentally bump into it while looking for it.
If you have lots of trees on your property, you can also try nailing the spare key to the bottom of one of the branches. This is a great idea if you live in a rural area with plenty of tree coverage as most people don't think to check this place for keys.
Try turning the car on
Up until recently the loss of your car keys was not a major issue. A locksmith could be called to help and the cost was usually around $20. But today automobiles are becoming increasingly technologically advanced, which could make them more expensive to replace should you do lose one.
A specific computer chip is required to turn on an engine in a brand new car. It communicates with the ECU. The car won't start without this chip. It is essential to have the correct key.
You may be able start your car using an older style traditional key. If this does not work, it might be time to call a locksmith or call your dealership for a replacement key made.
You could also try to start the car using a spare key. A lot of new manual cars come with a spare key, so this could be your best bet. This is a little riskier and it will depend on the particular vehicle you drive however, it is a possibility.
This method requires a bit of technical knowledge and a toolbox. This process also involves disassembling the engine and is not recommended for anyone. It's best to leave it to a professional to take care of this type of work as you'll be bypassing a lot of the safety features that are in the car.
It's always recommended to have a backup car key in case you lose one. The cheapest alternative is to get a traditional key made, but you can also get an electronic transponder or smart key. They're more expensive to replace and require a trip to the dealership for a new one that's been electronically paired with your car.
Look back over your day
It's all too common It happens to everyone: You lose your car keys. It's among the most frustrating things you can do since it immediately ruins your day. You're going to be late to work and your chores aren't getting completed. Even worse, you could have to pay a fee to replace the key fob in case you're renting the car. However, it doesn't have to be this way. You can avoid the loss of your keys from ruining your day if follow these simple steps.
Do not panic first. Take a deep breath to calm yourself and help you focus. car keys lost can also note your location so that you can go back to find out where you left your keys.
If you're unable to remember where you put them take a walk throughout your day. If you lost your keys while doing out for errands or shopping, return and look over each place you stopped. Did you put them on a counter? Perhaps you were taking something out of your bag and they got knocked loose. Make sure you remember exactly the last time you observed them.
After you've gone back through your day, check everywhere else. You might have left them in the pocket in the jacket you wore or inside the bag you carried with you. You should look in places you wouldn't normally think to look for them, like the pockets of clothing worn by other people or under cushions on couches.
If you're still unable to locate your car keys, think about asking for help from someone. Ask your friends if they have seen keys, or better yet, call a locksmith. You don't want to be paying for a second key or, even more importantly, have your vehicle stolen. A professional can assist you in getting your keys quickly and efficiently. It is also recommended to have a spare key. Keep it in a safe location.