7 Things You've Never Known About Lost Car Key
How to Recover a Lost Car Key
Losing your car key can be a stressful and emotional situation. You should remain calm and try to keep in mind that losing your car keys isn't an issue.
Modern key fobs are also smarter than the traditional keys, which opened doors and then turned on the ignition. It is important to know what to do if you lose your keys to avoid paying a costly replacement fee.
Retract your steps
Lost car keys are an unimaginable scenario for any driver. There are a few ways to retrieve your keys.
The first thing you should do is trace your steps. It may sound easy, but it can be very effective in finding your keys that you've lost. It's possible that you put them down in a rush and forgot about them. You can trace your steps to recall where you were the last time you observed them. It's also recommended to go through any places you've visited recently, even if they aren't places where you typically keep your keys. It's quite possible that your keys fell out of a pocket or bag and are hidden in a location you would not think of.
Another great way to find keys that are lost is using the tracker. It is small and it attaches to the keys. You can then use an app to find them. This is only possible if your keys have electronic components, such as remote key fobs.
If you do not have a tracking device or aren't able to locate your keys, your next step is to contact an auto locksmith in your area. They can help you make a new key, and reprogram it to work with your vehicle's anti-theft device. However this service is usually expensive and can cost you a few hundred dollars.
Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, you might be required to take a towed vehicle to the dealership in order to get your keys replaced. It's a good idea to keep a spare set keys on hand and take preventative steps to ensure you don't lose your keys in the first instance.
When you lose your keys the most important thing to do is stay calm. When you can't locate your keys it's easy to get panicked. If you begin screaming at yourself, you'll make it much more difficult to locate them. If you can't find your keys in an acceptable timeframe then it's probably time to contact an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. No matter what you decide to do, be sure to tell your insurance company so that they can help if something happens to your vehicle in the future.
Make sure you are aware of your hiding spots
If you are planning to hide your spare key, it's important to choose a spot that isn't obvious for passers-by. If you don't, you're creating an easy target for thieves. A plant pot or flower box is the usual place where many people keep their spare keys, however this can be a big mistake. If a burglar discovers the keys, they could also discover valuables such as your wallet.
A popular hideaway is behind the front door. However, it can be difficult to access in the event that you are locked out. You can purchase locks that are attached to the inside of your door and appear like a standard lock, but these tend to be quite expensive. You can hide the key in grass or under a mat. Some people employ fake rocks that have a compartment within them.
The key is often kept in the car however this is a risky option. This technique is well-known to thieves, who might be able to access the gas cap that is on the outside. If you're concerned about this, think about purchasing a magnetic key holder that can be attached to the underneath of your vehicle. It's similar to a license plate frame but is designed to hold the spare key in a concealed and hidden place.
You can also conceal the key in your garage, especially when it's not attached. A key that is hidden into a corner on the side of your garage door will stay away from view and reach unless you have an extension ladder.
Vinyl siding is also a great hiding spot, because there are often slight splits that you can slide the key through. Attach a fishing line to the key and then slide it into the split until the smallest amount of it is visible. This will stop the key from sliding when you happen to run into it when you are searching for it.
You can also nail the spare key at the base of the tree's branch if you have a lot of 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 consider checking this location for your keys.
Try turning the car on
Up until recently the loss of your car keys was not a major issue. A locksmith could be called to help and the cost was typically about $20. Nowadays, cars are more and more advanced in technology and are more expensive to replace.
In order to start the engine of a modern vehicle there is a specific computer chip that communicates with the vehicle's ECU. Without this, the car will not start. This is the reason it's vital to ensure that you have the correct key for your vehicle.
If you have an older model traditional key, you might be able to find it inside the lock and start your car. If this does not work, it might be time to contact a locksmith or call your dealership for a new key made.
Another option is beginning the car using a spare key. This is a good option for many new cars that are manual, as they come with a spare key. This is a bit riskier and it depends on the particular car you drive, but it can work.
This method requires a bit of technical know-how and a toolbox. It also involves disassembling parts of the engine and isn't recommended for anyone. This type of work should be done by a professional, especially since you'll be ignoring many safety features in the car.
A backup car key is always an ideal option in the event you lose the original. The most affordable alternative is to have an old-fashioned key made, but you can also buy a transponder key or smart key. These keys are more expensive and will require a visit to the dealer to purchase the new key.
Walk Back Through Your Day
Everybody has experienced this when you lose your car keys. It's among the most annoying things you can do because it immediately ruins your day. her explanation going be late for work, and your errands will not be completed. You might even need to pay to replace the key fob in case you rent a vehicle. But, it doesn't need to be this way. You can avoid losing your keys and damaging your day if you adhere to these easy tips.
First foremost, don't be anxious. Relax and take deep breaths to calm yourself and allow you to think clearly. You can also note your location so you can return to find out where you left your keys.
If you're unable to remember where you put them begin by retracing your day. If you lost them while you were running errands, return to each stop and think about what you were doing. Did you put them on the counter? You may have knocked them loose when you grabbed something from your bag. Try to remember exactly the location you were when you saw them.
Once you've completed your day, look everywhere else. You might have left them in a pocket of the jacket you were wearing or in the bag you carried with you. You should look in places you wouldn't typically think about for items, such as the pockets of clothes worn by others, or under the couch cushion.
If you can't locate your car keys, you can call someone to help. Ask your friends if they've ever seen keys or, even better seek out a professional locksmith for assistance. The one thing you do not want to do is end up paying for a new key, or worse, having your vehicle stolen. A professional can assist you in getting your keys quickly and efficiently. You should also have an extra key. Keep it in a safe location.