What to Do If You Lose Your Only Car Key
In the whirlwind of life - kids, errands, work and socializing with friends - things are lost. It's not always about the big stuff. Sometimes it's just the tiniest things such as keys.
A new key for most cars can be made in your local hardware store if you have proof of ownership. This is a cost-effective option.
Retract your Steps
It is frustrating to lose your sole car keys and not be able to get into your car. It can cost you money, time and peace of mind. The first thing you must do if you lose your car keys is to remain calm. Panicking isn't going to help you locate your keys any quicker, and it could even make things worse.
Start by trying to recall the last time you saw your keys. It could be as simple as them being in your pocket when you hopped out of the car to run an appointment, or they might have been dropped while bringing groceries inside. Retracing your steps can help you find your lost keys in a matter of minutes.
If retracing steps doesn't work, try writing every place you went to during the day. This will help you to remember where you were and could provide you with clues as to where your keys are. Make sure you check every location you recorded. You might find that keys "drift" on the floor, side or under something, and you can pick them up exactly where you left them.
Look Inside Your Car
In the past, 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 container that was attached to their car. Nowadays, however, vehicles are becoming more advanced in technology and keys are more likely to go missing. Replacing a stolen or lost car key could require several steps and can cost hundreds of dollars, depending on the kind of vehicle and year of the model. It's important to always have a spare key for your car in case you lose the original.
Before you start worrying 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 find it. Retrace your steps and consider the last time you held keys in your hand. It's not unusual to carry your keys while you reach for other items, and sometimes they end in the back of your car, where you can't see them.
Next, thoroughly search your vehicle. Be sure to pay focus on the areas you usually place them. You may have accidentally knocked the items out of your bag or left them on your dashboard when you exited your vehicle to go to a store.
Examine your purses, pockets and bags. It's easy to overlook something in the deep pockets of your coat or a large bag, so make sure to empty them out and scrutinize every crevice.
Call a locksmith for assistance if you can't find your keys. If you have a traditional metal key with no electronic components, you can obtain an instant replacement. If you have a key with chip and is an older model, you'll have to contact the dealer to request a new one.
Make sure you are aware of your hiding spots
It's easy to forget your keys when you're occupied. If you were hurrying to leave or distracted by a meal while talking on the phone, or simply lost them, it's easy to lose them. The good news is that most people have spare keys that they keep in their home or office that can be easily located in the right place. It is crucial to examine every place where you've put your spare key. This includes obvious places such as a backpack or purse, a pocket inside the sofa, a pile of mail on your table or a drawer on your dresser. If you have a friend with you and you want them to go through these same spots as well.
There are also magnetic boxes and mini vaults that you can stick on your car to store a spare key. These are ideal to hide keys since they won't fall off when you drive over bumps, and will shield your keys from the elements. A lot of these storage units also come with combination locks, which means that even if a friend has access to the key but they aren't in a position to open the door without your assistance.
A fake rock with a hidden compartment is another method to keep keys hidden. linked webpage is a good idea for outdoor areas. However, it is important to be aware that burglars are often looking for these items. If you decide to use this technique, you can make use of a dark duct to make it harder for thieves to see.
One last place to look is the hood of your vehicle. If you have keys that open the gas cap, this can be a great spot to hide it as it won't be as visible. Make sure you use a strong piece of tape to ensure the key doesn't fall off or scratch the paint on your car when you try to take it out.
There are methods to lessen the impact of keys missing from your car in your day-to-day life. By taking a moment to Retract Your Steps and scouring the most common hiding spots and calling an expert locksmith in your area to locate your keys and not waste any time or money.
Call a Locksmith
Unless you have spare keys, the best thing to do in the event that you lose your only car key is call locksmith. They can assist you in recovering it quickly and will also provide you with advice on how to avoid this occurring again in the future. You could also contact an auto key duplicate business. But, they'll need the exact brand, model, and year of your car to duplicate keys.
You'll need visit your dealer if your vehicle is an older model or uses smart fobs. This can be expensive particularly if they have to order the correct key for your vehicle, and it can take days or even weeks.
A thing that many don't realize is that a professional locksmith will typically offer the same services as dealers however at less cost. Many insurance policies also provide for locksmith charges or towing costs in the event of a stolen or lost key, and some offer roadside assistance that can send experts to your location to help you get back in your car.
It's important to verify the coverage of your comprehensive auto insurance prior to choosing an agent. You should also inform the police as soon as you can. This will ensure that no one else can be able to access your vehicle without permission. It is also a way to protect yourself in the event of being robbed or assaulted. Reporting your keys will also allow police officers to be on the lookout for anyone trying to use your vehicle illegally. In the event of a worst-case scenario you could be protected from criminal charges in the event that someone tries to steal your vehicle. It is essential not to be frightened if you lose the keys to your car. Follow the steps above and, if you need to get a family member or friend family member to help.