How to Locate a Key Car Lost
In the past, misplacing (or losing) keys to your car was a common occurrence. Today, the process can be much more costly and complicated.
If it's a traditional key or a more advanced car key fob, it's important to notify the loss as quickly as possible. Here's how. It will stop someone from using the keys to steal your vehicle.
Retract Your Steps
If you lose something of importance, like your keys, it can be quite anxious and even arousing. Fortunately, there are some methods to trace your steps and find the object. You need to remember where you saw the car in the last time so that you can start your search. Then consider where you went from there.
If you have an GPS device, you can also make use of it to track the location of your key fob. However, this only works in the event that your vehicle has an electronic component and does not have a traditional key.
Try to visualize your day Close your eyes and try to remember the last time you recalled seeing the keys. This could help stir up important clues about where you lost car keys no spare them.
A flashlight is an excellent method of locating lost keys of car possessions. Make use of it to look around the area you think they could be in. This is particularly useful in the event that your clothing is dark or you're parked in a shaded location. You can also ask friends and family to help you locate your keys. They can give you a fresh pair of eyes and could discover things you missed.
If your coach steps are always extended even when the step switch is turned off, attach a small magnet to the door sensor of the screen situated on the door's frame. This will notify the system that the door is shut and keep the steps retracting. This is also a good option in the event that you want to keep the steps retracted when your coach is stored at the dealer.
Call the Dealership
If you've lost key in car your keys, it's a frustrating experience. You could be forced to retrace your steps and looking for them in your office, home and other places. You'll have to accept that the keys to your car are missing, and you'll have to call someone for help. This can be done through either a locksmith or a dealership. Depending on the circumstance and type of key, one of these options might be better than the other.
In general, car dealerships can create replacement keys for the vehicles they sell. They can provide more information about the vehicle than locksmiths, including details about the vehicle's security. This can make them the most suitable option for certain kinds of vehicles, especially if your keys include a transponder or other security features. However it is important to remember that the dealership will likely be more expensive than a locksmith.
Certain cars come with a unique key called a smart key with an internal chip that communicates with the car's computer. This enables drivers to start and unlock their car without using the traditional key. It is best to call the dealership when you lose the key type. They'll need to verify your identity and provide proof of ownership before they are able to create a new key. The dealer will also have to connect the new chip to the car's system, which can take a couple of days.
A good idea is to keep a spare smart key in your purse, since you may be able to get into the car with it even in the event that you aren't able to get into the dealership immediately. Check with your insurance provider to determine if this kind of loss can be covered under your policy. If so, they can provide you with a new vehicle and locate the vehicle. They may even send a tow truck to take the vehicle away and return it to you.
Contact Your Insurance Company
The loss of car keys was not a big problem until recently. If you lost your key, you could have an extra on the keychain or in a small box attached to the car. Nowadays, cars are more technologically advanced and require more sophisticated keys that are less likely to lose and more costly to replace, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle you may need to visit a dealership or a locksmith in order to make the new key.
Locksmiths are usually the cheaper alternative. They can make keys replacements in just a few minutes. Some people choose to call their insurance company to find out if roadside assistance will cover the cost of a replacement key.
Most automobile insurance policies do not cover lost or stolen keys. It's not common to find an additional policy that covers stolen or lost the car key keys to cars. Roadside assistance is a second option, but it usually only covers costs if you lock your keys inside your car and doesn't include the cost of replacing the key.
You'll need to go to the dealer to obtain an electronic replacement key fobs. This involves pairing a chip with the car, so you'll be required to prove ownership like your registration or title. This could cost you several hundred dollars and could take longer than using the local locksmith.
Certain homeowner's insurance policies include coverage for garage door openers and keys, however, few car insurance companies offer this type of coverage. It's worthwhile to compare rates with your insurance provider in case you have this type of coverage. It is important to inform your insurance company that you've i lost the key to my car the keys so that they can verify their records. They will notify you if the car is reported stolen.
Contact the Police
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys to your car or loosing them was not a huge problem. Locksmiths could cut a new car key on the spot. Nowadays, cars are more advanced in technology and keys can be expensive to replace.
First, you should file a police report. This will assist in tracking down the thief and also help you to prove that your keys were taken. You'll have to provide basic information, like the make and model of your vehicle as well as your address and name. You may also have to prove that you own the car, such as the V5C form with your name on it.
Find a spare if you have one. Sometimes, they are kept in easy-to-access places like the back pocket of a jacket or the purse you carry when you leave home. You might want to ask about anyone who has seen your spare, for instance your roommates or family members. Also, make sure to check public places such as libraries and restaurants. You may find your key in these locations, which keep keys that have been discovered and returned.
If you have the money you may also try contacting an expert in automotive locks. They can reprogram the key without the original, and can even disable the older one to ensure that it can't be used by any other person to steal your car. They may need to remove part of the ignition system to accomplish this, but it will be worth it if the car has been stolen.
It's impossible to predict when your car keys may be lost. However, it's better to prepare for the most likely. Follow these tips to reduce the chance of becoming a victim and make sure to keep an extra key on hand at all times. You never know when a spare key might save your life. Emma, an author and car owner at CarsBlog, contributed this article.