How to Recover a Lost Car Key
Losing your car key can be a very stressful experience. However, you must keep your cool and remember that losing your keys doesn't need to be a big issue.
Unlike traditional keys that just opened doors and switched the ignition, modern key fobs also have smart technology. It's crucial to be aware of what to do if you lose yours so that you don't have to shell out a large amount for a replacement.
Retract Your Steps
A lost car key is an unimaginable scenario for any driver. Thankfully, there are several options to recover your keys.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. This simple method can be extremely helpful in locating keys that have been lost. It's possible that you put keys in a hurry and forgot about them. You can go back to recall where you were last time you were able to see them. It's also recommended to go through any places you've visited recently, even if they aren't the usual places to store your keys. It's possible that your keys got tossed out of a pocket or bag and are hidden somewhere you wouldn't expect.
Trackers are a great way to locate your lost keys. The device is small and can be attached to your keys. Then, you can use an app to locate the keys. This is only possible if you have electronic components inside your keys, such as remote key fobs.
If you don't have a tracking device or are unable to locate your keys, your next step is to call a local automotive locksmith. They'll be able to help you create a new key and reprogram it to the immobilizer system of your vehicle. This service can be expensive and can cost a few hundred bucks.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may need to be towed to a dealership to replace your lost keys. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and take preventative measures to stop losing them in the first place.
If you lose your keys The most important thing is to stay calm. It's easy to get anxious when you are unable to locate your keys, but it'll be a lot more difficult to locate them if you begin shouting at yourself. If you can't find your keys in an acceptable timeframe, it might be the right time to call an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. Regardless of what you do, make sure to inform your insurance company about the incident, so they can assist if something happens to your vehicle in the future.
Be aware of your hiding spots
If you want to place your spare key in a safe place, it's important to choose the location that's not obvious to passers-by. If you don't, you're creating an easy target for thieves. Many people store their extra keys in a flower pot or planter however this is not a good idea. If a burglar discovers keys, he could also find valuables, such as your wallet.
Another common hiding spot is behind the door, but this can be tricky to gain access to when you're locked out. There are locks that are attached to the door's inside and look similar to a regular lock, but these are typically quite costly. You can conceal the key in grass or under a mat. Some people also use fake rocks that look ordinary but have a hidden compartment for the key.
The key is also often kept in the car however, this can be risky. This trick is well-known to thieves, who might be able open the gas cap that is on the outside. If lost key in car concerned about this, think about purchasing a magnetic key holder that can be attached to the underside of your vehicle. It resembles a license plate frame but is designed to hold the spare key in a hidden, hidden location.
Garages are another great hiding place for the key, especially if have a detached garage. A key that is hidden into a corner on the side of your garage door will remain out of reach and inaccessible unless you have an access ladder.
Vinyl siding is also an excellent hiding spot because there are usually small splits where you can slide the key. Tie a piece of fishing line to the key, and then slide it into the split until only a small amount is visible. This will stop the key from sliding out in case you accidentally hit it while searching for it.
You can also place the spare key to the top of an erect tree branch if have many trees on your property. This is a great idea if you live in a rural area with a lot of trees, since most people won't think to check this place for keys.
Try turning off the car
Until recently, losing your car key was not a major issue. A locksmith could be called to help and the cost was usually about $20. Today, cars are more and more advanced in technology which makes them more expensive to replace.
A special computer chip is needed to start the engine in a new car. It communicates with the ECU. Without this, the car won't start. This is why it's crucial to ensure you have the correct key for your vehicle.
It is possible to start your car with an older traditional style key. If this doesn't work, it may be time to call a locksmith or call your dealership for an alternative key made.
You could also try to start the car using an extra key. A lot of new manual cars have spare keys key, so this could be your best option. This is a bit riskier and will depend on the particular vehicle you are driving but it could work.
This technique also requires technical expertise and tools. It also involves removing parts of the engine and isn't suitable for all. This kind of work is best left to a professional, especially since you'll be ignoring many safety features in the car.
It's always a good idea to have a spare car key in case you lose one. The most affordable alternative is to have traditional keys made, but you can also purchase a transponder key or smart key. These are more expensive to replace and requires a trip to the dealership for a new key that's connected electronically to your vehicle.
Walk Back Through Your Day
It's happened to everyone It happens to everyone: You lose your car keys. It's among the most annoying things you can do because it can completely ruin your day. You'll be late for work, and your chores will not be completed. Worse yet, you may have to pay a fee to replace the key fob when you're renting cars. However, it doesn't have to be this way. Follow these simple tips to avoid the loss of your keys from ruining your day.
Don't panic first. Take a deep breath to calm down and help you focus. It's important to note where you've been so you can go back and find out the reason why your keys disappeared.
If you cannot remember where you put them go back to your day. If you lost them while you were out running errands, go back to each stop and think about the things you were doing. Did you set them down on some counter? You may have tossed them loose after you took something from your bag. Try to remember exactly the last time you observed them.
After lost key for car 've gone back through your day, look everywhere else. You might have put them inside a jacket pocket or in a bag you carried around. Look in places that you wouldn't normally think to look for items, such as the pockets of clothing worn by other people or under a couch cushion.
If you're still unable to locate your car keys, you might consider calling someone for help. Ask your friends if they have seen keys, or better yet, call an locksmith. You do not want to end up paying for an extra key, or worse, having your car stolen. An expert can assist you to get your keys back quickly and efficiently. It's also an excellent idea to have an extra car key therefore, make sure you keep it in a secure place.