How to Find a Lost Key Car
Car keys are among the most difficult things to lose. If you don't have a spare key, this could be a huge problem.
The good news is that the majority of keys can be replaced fairly cost-effectively. It is best to begin your search right away. Follow your steps, search thoroughly and be at a steady pace.
Retract your steps
You know how stressful it is to lose your car keys. Whether you were running errands and left keys in the car, or you just misplaced keys in the chaos of getting out of the car, it occurs to all of us. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to help find the key you lost.
First, stay calm. Doing your best to locate your keys quicker and will only make things worse. Remember the last time that you held keys in your hands or where they were last seen. It's also a good idea to go around the area where you think you might have found your keys, searching for keys lying on the ground, in bushes or even under mats on the floor.
Another alternative is to note down every place you've visited throughout the day, in case your memory doesn't come through for you. If you don't own an item of writing equipment or a piece of paper you can stroll around the house or places you visited throughout the day and examine every pocket on your bags, clothes and other items.
If you do have a spare key, this is the time to use it. This will spare you many stress and frustration in the short-term, and you won't have to call an expert locksmith or dealer to get a replacement key.
If you don't have a spare now is the time to contact your local police department and inquire them about any lost or found keys that have been handed into the area. Some people are willing to surrender their lost keys and are waiting to be picked up by the appropriate person. This is a good idea, especially if you have an older model vehicle that doesn't have a built-in tracking system as do many of the modern vehicles available today. A professional locksmith can quickly and efficiently replace your key that was lost and give you peace of peace of.
Call Your Insurance Company
You have to admit, losing your keys can be quite annoying. It's not just a nuisance, it costs you money. Many insurance companies offer a car key security policy, which will help you save money on replacing keys lost. Make sure to check your policy prior to making an insurance claim to ensure that your keys that are lost will be protected.
If you don't keep an extra spare, it might be a challenge to replace your lost car key. If you have the key code or VIN number of your vehicle, a locksmith or dealer will be able to make a copy for you. This service is usually for free if you have roadside assistance.
Relax, and relax when you are unable to locate your car keys. Doing this will only make you angry and won't help you locate your keys any faster. After you've settled down and regained composure, check your pockets, as well as other obvious places like the laptop bag or purse that you carried. Also, make sure to check places you would not normally consider, such as your floor at home or inside your shoes.
Most modern cars are equipped with smart keys, which emit an electronic signal when they're within range of the vehicle's immobilizer system. They can be replaced by a dealer or certified locksmith, but they can also be costly. If you are worried about the cost of a key, consider the traditional key. They don't need a fancy chip and can be easily copied by locksmiths.
Filing a car insurance claim for a lost key can be difficult and can take a long time. Furthermore, you will have to pay a deductible, which may be more expensive than the cost of an alternative key. It's not worth the hassle of filing an insurance claim if you lose your car keys. However, it's worth checking your car insurance provider's policies as well as optional riders to determine whether they provide insurance for keys lost by a car.
Call Your Dealership
You'll need to contact your dealer to order a new smart key or transponder if you already have one. The keys emit a unique electronic code that the vehicle is able to recognize and communicate with the chip inside to unlock doors or start the engine. If your smart keys are lost, you'll need provide proof of ownership to a dealer employee to request replacement.
The main downside to calling the dealership is that it's a long process. Dealerships have to be able work with thousands of customers every day. It's likely that you'll be left off the list, unless you need urgent appointments or else. Another issue is that dealers will charge you a premium to replace your key. Your budget and personal preferences will determine whether this is worth it.
Another option is to visit a locksmith. A local locksmith is more efficient because they're typically only one person you can contact and talk to directly. This can save you any unnecessary wait times and difficulties. In addition there are many auto locksmiths who are available after hours and will go to great lengths to assist you when the dealership may not be open.
The main benefit of choosing a locksmith is that they are able to create a traditional car key on the right on the spot. This is a great alternative to visiting the dealership, especially if you're in a hurry to get somewhere. However, the main disadvantage of using a locksmith that they won't be in a position to replace your smart key. If you're looking for a reliable solution, you should contact both an auto dealer and a locksmith to see what options you have. The final decision comes down to your preferences in terms of service.
Contact a Locksmith
Many people lose their car keys. They are light, small and fit in nearly any pocket, however they can be very difficult to find if you don't know where to search for them. It is crucial to act fast in the event that you've lost your car key. Start with a spare. You'll need a locksmith if you don't have a spare.
Even if you don't have the original key, a good NYC locksmith can create a replacement car key. It might take a bit longer than going to the dealer, but you'll pay less. If you do visit the dealership, make sure you bring evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
Before calling locksmiths, be sure that you thoroughly check every spot where you could have placed it. For instance, you may have slid it under the seat or into the cupholder. You might have dropped it and then forgotten about it.
Contact your insurance provider immediately in the event that you are unable to locate your keys. In order to avoid rejection of your claim, you should inform them in writing.
Some companies, like AAA are in a position to assist you in finding the car that you lost keys to for a small fee. They are able to only provide an amount of time. If you've lost your smart key, they'll create a replacement for you at the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car at the dealership is costly however, if you have a locksmith, it's much more affordable. Make sure you have the information necessary to get the job done including the make, model and year of your vehicle, and proof that you are the owner of the vehicle, like the registration or title. If your key fob has been lost you'll need to wait several days for it to be reset. The key fob emits an electronic code that is readable by your vehicle. If it gets lost, it will be impossible to start your car.
