How to Recover a Lost Car Key
The loss of your car keys can be a stressful experience. You should remain calm and keep in mind that losing your car keys isn't an issue.
Key fobs that are modern are smarter than traditional keys, which only opened doors and turned on the ignition. It is important to know what to do if you lose your key to ensure that you don't need to pay a high cost to replace it.
Retract your steps
Lost car keys could be a nightmare for anyone who drives. There are fortunately, a variety of options to recover your keys.
The first thing you must do is retrace your steps. It may sound easy, but it can be very effective in finding your lost keys. It's possible that you put them down in a rush and forgot about them. You can retrace your steps to recall where you were the last time you were able to see them. You should also check any places you've been recently, even if you don't normally keep your keys in a safe place. It's entirely possible that your keys got tossed out of a pocket or bag and are buried in a location you would not think of.
Another great way to find keys that are lost is using a tracker. This device is small and can be attached to your keys. Then, you can use an app to find them. This is only possible if your keys have an electronic component, such as a remote key fob.
Contacting a locksmith in your area is the next step if you don't own a tracking device, or are unable to locate your keys. They will be able to assist you in creating a brand new key and reprogram the key to the immobilizer system of your vehicle. However this service is usually expensive and can cost a few hundred dollars.
You may need to have your vehicle towed to a dealer in order to get keys replaced. It's a good idea to keep a spare set of keys on hand and take preventative steps to ensure you don't lose your keys in the first place.
If you lose your keys the most important thing is to remain calm. When you can't find your keys it's easy to panic. However, if you begin screaming at yourself, it will make it harder to locate them. If you are unable to locate your keys within an acceptable amount of time then it's probably time to contact a locksmith or go to the dealership. Whatever you do, make sure to inform your insurance company about the incident, so they can assist in the event of damage to your car in the future.
Make sure you are aware of your hide spots
It's crucial to pick a place where passersby won't be able to see your spare key. You'll make yourself vulnerable to theft in the event that you don't. Many people keep their extra keys in plants or in a flower pot, but this is not a good idea. If a burglar finds your keys, they could also discover your wallet and other valuables.
Another favorite place to hide is behind the door, however it can be difficult to gain access to in the event that you're locked out. Special locks that resemble normal locks and attach to the door's interior are available, but they can be costly. You can conceal the key in the grass or under a mat. Some people also use fake rocks that look like normal but have a hidden compartment for the key.
It is not uncommon to store the key in the car. However, this can be dangerous. This method is well-known among thieves, who may be able open the gas cap on the outside. If you're concerned about this, get a magnetic key holder to attach to the underside your vehicle. It looks like an actual license plate, but it's designed to conceal the spare key.
You can also conceal the key in your garage, particularly in the event that it is not connected. If you don't have a ladder, keys hidden in a corner along the side of your garage will be hidden from view.
Vinyl siding can also be an ideal place to hide because there are usually small gaps that you can slide the key. Attach a fishing line to the key, and then slide it into the split until only an inch or two of it is visible. This will stop the key from sliding in case you happen to hit it when you are searching for it.
You can also put the spare key at the end of the tree's branch if you have a lot of trees on your property. This is a great option for those who reside in a rural area with plenty of tree coverage, since most people won't think of checking this area for keys.
Try Turning the Car On
Up until recently the loss of your car keys was not a huge issue. A locksmith could be called to help and the cost was usually around $20. Nowadays, cars are more and more advanced in technology, making them more expensive to replace.
A special computer chip is needed to start an engine in a new car. It communicates with the ECU. The car will not start without this chip. It is essential to have the correct key.
If you have an older traditional key, you may be able to find it inside the lock and still begin the car. If this does not work, you may need to call a locksmith to create a new one or contact your dealership for assistance.
Another option is to try beginning the car using an extra key. A lot of new manual cars have spare keys key, and this is your best option. This is a little more risky and it will depend on the specific vehicle you are driving, but it can work.
This method also requires some technical know-how and a toolbox. This method involves removing the engine and is not recommended for anyone. It's best to have a professional handle the task of this kind of work, especially since you'll be ignoring a lot of the safety features inside the car.
A backup car key is always an ideal option in the event you misplace the original. You can buy an old-fashioned key, but a transponder or smart key is also available. They are more expensive to replace and require a trip to the dealer for a new one that's been electronically paired with your vehicle.
Take a look back at your day
Everyone has experienced this: you lose your car keys. It's one of the most frustrating things you could do because it instantly ruins your day. You'll be late to work, and your errands will not be completed. And, worse yet, you might have to pay a fee to replace the key fob in case you're renting the car. It doesn't need to be like this. Follow these simple steps to prevent the loss of your keys from ruining your day.
First of all, don't panic. Relax and take deep breaths to relax and help you think clearly. It's an excellent idea to write down the places you've been to so you can go back and find out what happened to your keys.
If you are unable to remember where they were go back throughout your day. If you've lost your keys while running around or shopping, go back and review each visit. Did you put them on the counter? You may have tossed them loose when you grabbed something from your bag. Make sure you remember exactly where you last was when you last saw them.
Take a look around. You might have put them in a jacket pocket or in a bag you carried with you. Be sure to check places you would never think of, like pockets in other people's clothing or beneath cushions on your sofa.
If you're unable to find your car keys, contact someone for help. Ask your friends if they've seen them or, better yet, ask an expert locksmith for assistance. You do not want to end up paying for a second key or worse, 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 similar site in a secure place.