How to Recover a Lost Car Key
The loss of your car keys can be a stressful event. It is important to remain calm and keep in mind that losing your car keys aren't an issue.
Key fobs that are modern are more sophisticated than traditional keys, which only opened doors and then turned on the ignition. It's important to know what to do if you lose your key to ensure that you don't need to pay a high cost for replacement.
Retract Your Steps
Lost car keys are a nightmare scenario for any driver. There are a few ways to retrieve your keys.
It is best to first retrace your steps. It may sound easy, but it can be extremely effective in locating the keys you lost. You may have dropped keys in a hurry, and forgotten about them. You can trace your steps to remember where you were the last time you saw them. Also, you should check any places you've been recently, even if you don't usually keep your keys there. It's entirely possible that your keys got tossed out of a bag or pocket and are buried somewhere you wouldn't expect.
car lost key replacement are a great way to locate your keys that have gone missing. The device is small and attached to your keys. Then, you can use an app to locate them. This is only possible when you have electronic components inside your keys, for example a remote key fob.
Contacting a locksmith in your area is the next step if you don't own a tracking device, or if you are unable to locate your keys. They'll be able to help you create a new key and reprogram it to the immobilizer system of your vehicle. This can be costly and can cost hundreds of dollars.
Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, you could be required to take a towed vehicle to the dealer to replace your lost keys. It is best to have a spare key on hand and take preventative measures to avoid losing them in the first place.
The most important thing to remember when you lose your car keys is to remain calm. When you can't locate your keys, it's easy to panic. However, if you begin screaming at yourself, it will make it even more difficult to find them. If you are unable to locate your keys within an acceptable timeframe then it's probably time to call a locksmith or visit the dealership. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you inform your insurance company so they can assist if something happens to your vehicle in the future.
Check Your Hide Spots
It's important that you choose the location where passers-by aren't aware of your spare key. Otherwise, you'll be an easy target for thieves. A plant pot or flower box is the usual place where many people keep their spare keys, however this is a major mistake. If a burglar discovers your keys, they may also discover your wallet and other valuables.
A popular hideaway is behind the front door. However, this could be difficult to gain access to if locked out. You can purchase locks that are attached to the door's inside and look similar to a regular lock, but these are typically quite costly. A less expensive option is to hide the key in the door mat or in the grass. Some people also make fake rocks that appear like normal but have a hidden compartment for the key.
It is not uncommon to store the key in the car. However, this could be risky. This trick is well-known to thieves, who might be able to open the gas cap on the outside. If you are worried about this, you should purchase an electronic key holder that you can be able to attach to the underside of your vehicle. It resembles an actual license plate, but it's designed to conceal the spare key.
You can also put the key in your garage, particularly when it's not attached. A key that is hidden in a nook in the side of your garage door will remain away from view and reach unless you have an access ladder.
Vinyl siding can also be an excellent hiding spot, as there are often tiny gaps where you can slide the key. Tie a piece of fishing line to the key, and slide it into the split until a small amount is visible. This will stop the key from sliding in case you accidentally hit it when you are searching for it.
If you have lots of trees on your property, you may also try nailing your spare key to the top of one of the branches. This is a great option when you reside in a rural location with a lot of trees, since most people won't think to check this place to find your keys.
Try turning the car on
Until recently, losing your car key was not a major issue. You could reach a locksmith to help out, and it cost only $20 or so. Today, cars are becoming more and more advanced in technology, making them more expensive to replace.
In order to start the engine in a modern automobile there is a specific computer chip that communicates with the vehicle's ECU. Without this, the car will not start. It's essential to have the correct key.
You may be able start your car with an older, traditional style key. If this does not work, it might be time to contact a locksmith or call your car dealer to have an alternative key made.
Another option is starting the car with a spare key. This is the best solution for the majority of new manual cars, as they have spare keys. This is a bit riskier and it depends on the particular vehicle you drive, but it can work.
This technique also requires technical knowledge and an arsenal of tools. This process also involves disassembling an engine component and is not recommended for everyone. It is better to let a professional take care of this kind of work particularly since you'll bypass many of the safety features in the vehicle.
It's always recommended to have a backup car key in case you lose one. The cheapest alternative is to have a traditional key made, but you can also buy a transponder or smart key. These keys are more expensive and require a trip to the dealer to purchase a new one.
Review your day
It's happened to everyone The car keys. It's the most frustrating thing you can do, because it can ruin your day. You'll be late for work, and your errands won't get done. And, worse yet, you might be required to pay to replace the key fob when you're renting cars. But, it doesn't need to be this way. Follow these simple steps to prevent losing your keys ruining your day.
First foremost, don't be anxious. Breathing deeply can help you calm down and think clearly. It's important to write down where you've been so you can go back and figure out the reason why your keys disappeared.
If you can't remember where you put them down Begin by walking through your day. If you've lost your keys while running around or shopping, return and review each visit. Did you set them down on the counter? Maybe you were picking something from your bag when they were knocked loose. Try to remember exactly the location you saw them.
Take a look around. You may have put them in the pocket in the jacket you were wearing or in the bag you carried with you. You should look in places you wouldn't normally think to look for them, like the pockets of clothes worn by others or under the couch cushion.
If you still can't find your car keys, think about calling someone for help. Ask your friends to see if they have seen keys, or better yet contact an locksmith. 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 help you get your keys back quickly and efficiently. It's also an excellent idea to have an extra car key so make sure you keep it in a secure location.