How to Recover a Lost Car Key
The loss of your car key could be a stressful and emotional situation. However, you must keep calm and keep in mind that losing your keys don't need to be a big deal.
Instead of traditional keys that opened doors and turned the ignition modern keys have sophisticated technology. You need to know what you should do if you lose your keys to avoid paying a high replacement cost.
Retract Your Steps
Lost car keys could be a nightmare for anyone who drives. There are several options to get your keys back.
The first thing you should do is to retrace your steps. It might sound simple however it can be very effective in finding your keys that you've lost. It's possible that you tossed them in a flurry and then forgot about them. You can trace your steps to remember where you were the last time you were able to see them. It's also recommended to go through any areas you have visited recently even if they're not the usual places to store your keys. It's possible that your keys fell out of a purse or bag and are buried somewhere you would not expect.
Another great way to find your lost key s is by using the tracker. This device is small and can be attached to your keys. You can then use an application to locate them. This is only possible if your keys have electronic components, such as remote key fobs.
Contacting a locksmith in your area is the next step if you don't have a tracker device, or are unable to locate your keys. They can assist you with the creation of an original key and reprogram it for your vehicle's anti-theft device. This service can be expensive and cost up to several hundred dollars.
Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, you could need to be towed to the dealer to replace your lost keys. It's a good idea keep a spare set keys in your possession and take preventative measures to ensure you don't lose your keys in the first place.
If you've lost your keys, the most important thing to do is remain calm. When you can't locate your keys it's easy to panic. But if you start screaming at yourself, you'll make it even more difficult to find them. If you're still not able to locate your keys in a reasonable amount of time, it might be time to contact a locksmith or go to the dealership. No matter what you decide to do, be sure to inform your insurance company so that they can assist if something happens to your vehicle in the future.
Make sure you are aware of your hiding spots
When you keep your spare keys hidden it is important to pick the location that's not obvious for people passing by. Otherwise, you'll be an easy target for thieves. Many people keep their extra keys in the form of a planter or flower pot This is not a good idea. If a burglar finds the keys, he may also find valuables like your wallet.
A popular hideaway is behind the front door. However, this could be difficult to access if locked out. You can buy special locks that attach to the door's inside and appear like a standard lock, but these tend to be quite expensive. A less expensive option is to hide the key in the door mat or in the grass. Some people also use fake rocks that look like normal but have a hidden compartment for the key.
It is not uncommon to keep the key in the car. However, this could be dangerous. This technique is well-known to thieves, who may be able to access the gas cap on the outside. If you're concerned about this, think about purchasing an electronic key holder that can be attached to the underneath of your vehicle. It resembles an old license plate frame, but is designed to secure the spare key in a concealed and hidden place.
You can also hide the key in your garage, especially in the event that it is not connected. A key that is hidden in a nook in the side of the garage door will remain out of sight and reach unless you have an extension ladder.
Vinyl siding can also be a great hiding spot, because there are often slight gaps that you can slide the key through. Make sure you tie a piece of clear fishing line to the key, and then slide it into the siding until just small amounts of it are visible. This will stop the key from sliding in case you happen to bump into it while searching for it.
If you have lots of trees on your property, you can also try nailing the spare key to the bottom of a branch. This is a good choice when you reside in a rural area with plenty of tree coverage, since most people won't consider checking this location for your keys.
Try turning the car on
Not too long ago the loss of your car keys was no big problem. You could reach an locksmith to help out, and the cost was usually around $20. However, today automobiles are becoming increasingly technologically advanced, which can make them more expensive to replace should you lose one.
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's essential to have the correct key.
If you have an older style traditional key, you may be able to find it inside the lock and still start the vehicle. 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 with a spare key. A lot of new manual vehicles come with spare keys, so this may be your best bet. This is a riskier option and will depend on the car, but it might be successful.
This process also requires technical expertise and a toolbox. This method also involves disassembling an engine part and is not recommended for everyone. This kind of work should be left to a professional, particularly because you'll be ignoring many safety features in the car.
A spare car key is always an excellent idea in the event that you misplace the original. You can buy a traditional key, but a transponder or smart key is also available. These keys are more expensive and will require a visit to the dealer to get the new key.
Walk Back Through Your Day
Everyone has had this experience You lose your car keys. It's one of the most stressful things you can do, because it can make your day miserable. You'll be late for work and your chores aren't getting completed. You may even be required to replace the key fob in case you rent the vehicle. But, it doesn't have to be this way. You can stop losing your keys and ruining your day if follow these simple tips.
First of all, don't panic. Relaxing will allow you to relax and think clearly. You can also record your location to revisit to find where you left your keys.
If you're unable to remember where you put them take a walk to your day. If you've lost them while you were running errands, return to every stop and consider what you were doing. Did you set them down on the counter? You may have knocked them loose after you took something from your bag. Try to remember exactly where you were when you saw them.
Once you've completed your day, make sure you look everywhere else. You may have put them in the pocket in the jacket you were wearing or in the bag you carried with you. Be sure to check places you would never think of, such as pockets in other people's clothes or under the cushion on your sofa.
If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, consider getting help from someone. Ask your friends if they've ever seen keys or, even better seek out an expert locksmith for assistance. You do not want to end up paying for a second key or, even more importantly, have your vehicle stolen. An expert can assist you to get your keys back quickly and efficiently. It's also a good idea for you to have an extra car key, so be sure to keep it in a safe location.