Lost Key in Car

You're in a rush to leave the house and your keys disappear. You may have a spare car key or you can contact a locksmith in the area to make a new key.

It's easy for you to return to the exact places you're "sure" you have your keys but you must go back to your initial steps and thoroughly look for them.

1. Retract your Steps

Sometimes, you'll lose your keys when you least think about it. You might lose your keys when you're running errands or when you return home from a long working day. It can be easy to become anxious in these situations, but it's important to relax and retrace your steps. This will help you figure out where your keys might be and where to start looking.

If your steps will not extend or retract when you turn the ignition on it is possible to examine the step motor or replace the fuse. You can also tap the step motor using your hammer and see whether it works.

2. Make Sure You've Checked Your Car

The loss of your car keys can be a nightmare, particularly if you need to get to a location in a hurry. It is essential to remain calm and repeat the steps you took in order to find your keys.

Start by thinking about the last time you thought of having your keys. Checking the pockets of your jacket or jeans can be enough. It's also recommended to check places you might not normally consider looking, like your shoe if you went for a walk or the top of your fridge.

If you can't find your keys, you can try calling a locksmith, or searching on the internet for "car key replacement near me." You may be able to find someone who can help you out for less than the dealership. However, it is important to determine if the lost key is covered by your car insurance or warranty.

Transponder keys can be used by most modern cars to lock and unlock doors as well as to start the car. The keys are equipped with tiny chips that transmit an unique signal to the vehicle, which can only read by scanner. If you have transponder keys the best solution is to contact your car dealer. They can give you the key and link it with your vehicle. However, this can be costly and could take a while. Alternately, you could look into a Bluetooth key tracker, which is less expensive and functions similar to a regular key. These devices emit a radio signal and can be connected to an app on your smartphone which allows you to track where your keys are.

3. Call a Locksmith

If you're a regular loser of keys, it's a good idea to have an extra key in a place that is secure. This way, you'll have a spare key to turn on the ignition whenever you need it. If you don't have a spare key, try searching online for after market keys that are compatible with your car. They are usually cheaper than going to an auto dealer.

Another spot to search for your car keys that have been lost is in your handbag or backpack. Make sure you check every pocket, zippered section, and small compartments. Sometimes keys are accidentally slipped in these places, and they can be very hard to find. Call a locksmith if you cannot locate your key.

Car locksmiths are experts in replacing keys that have been lost car key. They will be able to make a new car key using the information that you provide including the VIN number or key identification. They might also be able to reprogram the immobilizer, which will stop it from starting when the wrong key is used, depending on the type of key you have.

You can also approach the local dealership for assistance in finding your lost key. The dealership can design an replacement key chip for your car however, it could be more costly than working with an outside locksmith.

If your key has a transponder you will have to visit the manufacturer or dealer to obtain an alternative. In this instance the manufacturer or dealer will need to design a key that matches your vehicle's current system and you'll need proof of ownership. You can get around this by working with an auto locksmith, who is likely to be able to provide you with an improved price.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

You've had a lengthy, tiring day. You're looking forward to going home, slip on a pair of comfy sweatpants and order pizza and binge-watch your favorite show. Then you lose your keys. What a bummer! Make sure to check your car first since that's the most obvious place to look. Also take a look at the cushions on your couch and in the cabinets and counters where you may have put them down. This is the ideal time to tidy up if you haven't done so yet. Be sure to check your workplace and other areas you may have lost keys in the past. Keys are often lost by customers or employees, and may be lying around waiting for you to locate them.

If you've tried all of this and are still unable to locate your keys it is time to contact your insurance company. Losing your keys can be considered as a total loss, which means the insurance company will pay to replace the keys. If you have roadside assistance coverage they will send a locksmith to assist you. If you don't have roadside assistance, you will need bring your vehicle in to the dealership so that they can create a key using your vehicle information. This could be expensive and can take a few days since the dealer will need to program your computer system.

To avoid this problem, always keep an extra key in the car in the event of losing one. It's a good idea make your spare key from the same type of key as the one you have in your car key. Consider getting a Bluetooth tracker to help find your key ring. There are a variety of options to choose from such as the Apple AirTag, Tiles or numerous others.

5. Call the Police

Keys to your car are among of the most common problems that motorists face. If someone steals your car with your key, it's more than just a problem, but also a security risk.

The best thing to do in the event that you lose your keys is to follow your steps again and thoroughly search. Make sure you look in compartments, pockets, and even inside bags that may have been carried around. You can also ask friends and family to help you look. They might have a different perspective and be able to identify things that aren't visible.

It's important that you contact the police right away if you can't locate your keys. This will stop other crimes in the interim and will also help you with a possible insurance claim if your car is stolen.

Once you've reported the loss the police will be able to inform you that your keys have been turned in. Sometimes, people leave them on the streets or in public parks, and the police are usually able to notify you if they've been found.

If you're not happy with the police response If you're not satisfied, you can always talk to a locksmith. Most locksmiths will be in a position to make an entirely new car key for you, and some will even disable the previous one to ensure no-one can use it to take your car. You can also contact your dealer for assistance for the same service. It is best to check your insurance policy first, as some policies will cover the cost.