How to Locate a Key Car Lost
A few years ago, losing (or losing) your car keys was a simple affair. Nowadays, things can get more complicated and costly.
It doesn't matter if it's a standard key or an advanced car key fob, it's essential to notify the lost item as quickly as you can. Here's how. This will stop anyone from stealing your car keys.
Retract Your Steps
If you lose something that is important such as your keys or your wallet, it can be very stressful and can even cause panic. However, there are ways to trace your steps and locate the object. You must remember where you last saw the car last so that you can begin your search. Then think about where you went from there.
If you own an GPS device you can also make use of it to track the location of your key fob. This only works if have an electronic key, and not a traditional key.
Try to visualize your day, close your eyes and try to recall the last time you recall seeing the keys. This can help to stir up important clues about the location where they went missing.
Another great way to retrace your steps is to use a flashlight to search the area you think they might be. This is especially helpful if you have dark clothing or are parked in a shaded location. You may also ask the help of friends and family members to help locate your keys. They can provide a new set of eyes that may be able to spot things you missed.
If your coach steps are always extended even when the step switch has been switched off, connect an iron bar to the sensor for the screen door situated on the door's frame. This will notify the system that the door sensor is closed and the steps will be reduced. This method is also useful for those who would like the steps to remain in place when your coach is storage at an agent.
Contact the Dealership
If you've lost your keys, it can be a very frustrating experience. You may need to go through the steps and searching for them in your home, office and other places. It is likely that your car keys are missing and you'll need to contact someone for help. You can do this by calling either a locksmith or dealer. Based on your particular situation and the type of key you own, one of these options could be more appropriate than the other.
Generally speaking dealerships for cars are equipped to make replacement keys for the brand of vehicles they sell. They also have access to more details about the vehicle than a locksmith would provide, such as information about how the vehicle is secured. This makes them the ideal choice for certain kinds of vehicles particularly if your keys include a transponder or other security features. It is important to remember that a dealership will be more expensive than an independent locksmith.
Certain cars come with a unique key, referred to as a smart key with an embedded chip that communicates with the car's computer. This can allow drivers to unlock and start the car without having a traditional key. It is recommended to contact the dealer when you lose the key type. Before they can create a new key, they'll need proof of ownership and your identity to verify. The dealer will also need to connect the new chip with the car's computer. This could take a few days.
It is a good idea to have an extra smart key in your purse, as you might be able to get into the vehicle with it in the event that you aren't able to get into the dealership immediately. Another alternative is to inquire with your insurance company if this type of loss is covered by your policy. If so, they can provide you with a replacement vehicle and could be able to track the location of it. They may even provide a tow truck retrieve the vehicle 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 keys, you could have an extra key on your keychain or in a small box connected to the car. Nowadays, cars are more advanced, and they require more sophisticated keys that are more difficult to lose and are more costly to replace, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Based on the make and model of your vehicle, you may have go to a dealer or a locksmith to make the new key.
Generally locksmiths are the cheaper option for most people, and they can make a new key for you in just a few minutes. However, some people prefer to call their car insurance company to find out if they have roadside assistance that can cover the cost of obtaining a new key.
Most auto insurance policies do not cover lost or stolen keys. While some may have an add-on insurance policy that covers it, it is rare. Roadside assistance can be another option. However, it usually only covers the cost if you lock the keys to your vehicle and doesn't cover the cost to replace the key.
For electronic fobs, you'll have to head to the dealership to have a new key created. This involves pairing an entirely new chip to the vehicle, so you'll need to show proof of ownership, such as your registration number or title. This could cost you several hundred dollars, and may take longer than using the local locksmith.
Some homeowners' insurance policies provide coverage for garage door openers and keys, but few car insurance companies offer this option. It's worthwhile to compare rates with your insurer in case you have this coverage. Regardless of what you choose to do, it's important to inform your insurance company that the keys have been lost to review their records and notify you if the vehicle is ever reported as stolen.
Contact the Police
In the past losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. A locksmith could cut a new key right on the spot. The technology used in automobiles has advanced to the point that keys can be costly to replace.
It is recommended to first start by filing a police complaint. This will help them track the perpetrator and help you to prove that your keys were stolen. You will need to provide basic information such as your car's make and model, your name and your address. You may also need to prove that you own the vehicle for example, the V5C form with your name on it.
Find a spare if you have one. Sometimes, they are kept in easy-to-access places, such as the back pocket of a jacket, or the purse you use to leave the house. lost car key and no spare might want to ask to see if anyone has seen your spare, like your roommates or family members. Also, make sure to check public spaces such as libraries and restaurants. These areas usually collect keys that have been discovered and then returned and returned, and you may be lucky enough to find yours among them.
You may also want to consult a professional auto locksmith, if you are able to afford it. They will usually reprogram a key without the original key and even disable the old one so that no-one else is able to use it to steal your car. It is possible to remove a component of the ignition to do this. However, it is worth it if you have had your vehicle stolen.
There's no way to know when your car keys will be lost, but it's always better to prepare for the worst. Use these tips to minimize the chance of being a victim. Also, make sure to keep an extra key in your pocket at all times. You never know the day that a spare key will save your life. Emma is a blogger and car owner at CarsBlog contributed to this article.