Lost My Car Keys? Here's What to Do
Keys will be lost at some point, no matter how well organized you are. If this happens it is crucial to be prepared.
Depending on your vehicle the first phone call you should make is to an auto locksmith or dealership. These professionals can make an alternative key that will fit your vehicle.
1. Retract Your Steps
There are few things more painful than losing the keys to your car. It can ruin your day, cause an anxiety-filled day and can even result in unsavory phone calls from strangers. The loss of your keys is something that can happen to anyone, regardless of how organized you are.
The best-case scenario would be that they appear exactly where you last left them. (Parent Logic says this is the case). However, the situation can often be more grave. If you lose your keys, it is crucial to remain calm and follow the steps.
Keep in mind that many things aren't lost forever and can be located in the most unlikely places. Before taking drastic measures, it is an ideal idea to retrace and search your steps. To do this, it's a good idea to carry a flashlight to help you find dark areas and drawers. You could also ask someone to assist you for you, as a second pair eyes can be very beneficial.
2. Check the Inside
If you're unable to locate your keys after retracing the steps and checking common places like key hooks, examine the pockets, bags and jackets that you recently were wearing or used. If you've lost your keys at a store and you are unsure of where to find them, ask other customers or employees if they have noticed something out of the ordinary.
Examining your bags and pockets for missing keys may seem obvious but it is important to be thorough. Empty your pockets, even those on jackets and purses. Examine the zippered areas. It's also an excellent idea to go through the recycling and trash bins in case keys fell out of your bag and were crushed by something other.
It might be beneficial to go through your steps again and search places where you are sure they aren't like the freezer or refrigerator. A lot of times, things go missing when we reach for them but then slam them away and forget about them.
3. Check the Outside
You've worked hard all day and are now ready to head home put on your comfy sweats, have pizza and binge on your favorite TV show. Unfortunately, you realize your car keys have disappeared.
While you're retracing your steps take a look at areas that are overly cluttered such as tabletops and desks and also the pockets of your clothes. It's also not uncommon to leave your keys behind in a messy spot like on the handle of a door or in the refrigerator, so make sure to thoroughly check those places.
Another popular hiding place is under the car. If you choose to do this be sure you can easily open the gas cap on your car from the outside. Otherwise, a thief could be able to spot you hiding your keys under your car.
You could also consider hiding your keys in a small nook on the dashboard or under the seat. Be cautious not to place them too tightly because they could be crushed when you close the door.
4. Call the Police
Sometimes, we lose things because we are just a little distracted. You may be doing an easy errand and you've forgotten your keys on the car seat. Or perhaps you need two hands to grab the groceries. It happens to everyone.
It is essential to notify the police immediately if you have lost anything. You can then make a police report to protect your vehicle from thieves. This is crucial in the event that you lose your keys outside of your home, in the shop or in public.
Before you begin, be sure to go back to your steps. Recreate the scene from when you last saw your keys in your mind. Asking your friends and family whether they've seen your keys is a great idea. This will keep your car secure and prevent others from stealing it. (This could lead to additional expenses such as new ignition locks and door locks). If you have a spare key, it's always recommended to create copies of it in the event that this happens to you again.
5. Contact a Locksmith
It's common for people to lose track of where they have put their keys, particularly when they're distracted or in a rush. There are a few basic tips you can use to aid.
Begin by retracing the steps you've taken and then searching for the locations you believe they may be. If Resource struggling to locate them, try checking in the car itself. It's not uncommon for people to leave their keys in their visors or on the keychain.
Last but not least, contact an locksmith to see if they can assist you in finding your keys that have disappeared. They may be able to make you a new key or even alter the locks on your home if needed. They have the tools and know-how to remove bent or broken keys from locked doors.
Make sure you have proof of ownership when you contact a locksmith. You can use your car's registration or title. You may have to wait for several days for a dealership to send you a replacement key dependent on the circumstances.
6. Contact Your Insurance Agent
You might lose your car keys at times and it can cause you to lose your day. It could be because you were running a quick task and left keys on the seat, or perhaps you put your keys down for a moment to grab something and lost the track of it.
It is important to report lost keys as soon as possible to the police. This will be recorded on paper and help prevent other people from using your car without your permission. This also helps you avoid getting penalized.
If you've reported your keys as lost to the police and your homeowner's insurance could be able to take them in as personal property. It is recommended to contact your agent to confirm that you're insured prior to filing a claim.
You should consider investing in an Bluetooth tracking device like Apple AirTags or Tiles. This will help you avoid the stress of having to replace your car keys, and give you peace-of-mind knowing that you always have your keys within reach.
7. Get a Bluetooth Key Tracker
Sometimes you can lose your keys when you least think about it. You could be out for a quick errand and do not remember to put them on the seat, or you might be getting out of your car after a long day at work and can't remember where you put them.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent this from happening in the near future. One of the best options is to use a Bluetooth key tracker. These small devices are attached to your keyring or wallet, and can connect with an app on the phone. The app will ring or flash when you open it, to aid you in finding your keys. These Bluetooth trackers come with community features that allow others to assist you in finding them if your keys are out of reach.
You can also avoid losing your keys by putting them in the same spot each time you get home. It doesn't matter if put them in an entry table or a hook by the door. Making this an habit will make it easier to find your keys in the future.
8. Get a Replacement Key
It is essential to inform your insurance company right away when you lose your keys to your car, or if they are stolen. This way you'll be able to rest at ease knowing that your claim will be dealt with properly should anything happen to the vehicle in the future.
If you own a standard key (which does not have chip) you can simply get an replacement from any locksmith or hardware store. This is typically the fastest and most affordable alternative.
It might be more difficult for cars equipped with an electronic key and an electronic fob. You will likely have go to your local dealership and show proof of ownership to get an updated key. This could cost you up to $200, based on the model and make of your car.
To avoid this, keep a spare set of keys in a different location than your keys. De-cluttering your office or home is also a good idea, particularly in areas where you're likely to lose things.