Lost My Car Keys? Here's What to Do

You will lose your keys at some point, regardless of how to replace lost car key organized you are. When this happens it is crucial to know what to do.

Depending on the vehicle you have, the first call you must make is to an auto locksmith or dealership. These professionals can make an appropriate replacement key for your vehicle.

1. Retract your steps

There aren't many things more difficult than losing your car keys. It can ruin your day, cause an anxiety-filled day and even trigger unsavory calls from strangers. It doesn't matter if are an organized person or not the loss of your keys can occur to anyone.

The best-case scenario is that they turn up exactly where you left them (Parent Logic would argue this is the norm). But, in reality things can take a darker turn. If you lose your keys, it's essential to be calm and not panic. You can then retrace the steps.

It's also important to remember that the majority of things don't go missing for ever, and are often found in some very strange locations. So, before resorting to extreme measures it's a good idea to revisit your steps and search thoroughly. Bring a flashlight to search for dark corners and drawers. You could also ask someone to assist you for items, because a second pair of eyes can be extremely helpful.

2. Check the Inside

If you are unable to locate your keys after retracing the steps and checking common places like key hooks, examine the pockets, bags and jackets that you recently wore or used. If you've lost them at the store, talk to others who are customers or employees to determine if they saw something unusual.

It may seem obvious to check your bags and pockets for your missing car keys however, it's crucial to do it thoroughly. Empty your pockets, including the ones on purses and jackets. Check every zippered area. It's also a good idea to comb through the trash and recycle bins in case keys fell out of your bag and were crushed by something other.

You can also trace your steps and look in places you know the item isn't in, like the fridge or freezer. Sometimes, items go missing when we go to them, cost of Replacing lost car keys but then slam them away and forget about them.

3. Check the Outside

You've put in the hours and are now ready to go home put on your comfy sweats, eat pizza and binge watch your favorite show. You realize that your car keys have disappeared.

While you're walking around be sure to check out areas that are cluttered such as tabletops and desks and also the pockets of your clothing items. You can also put your keys in a busy area, such as the door handle or in the refrigerator.

Another popular hiding place is under the car. If you choose to do this ensure that you are able to open the gas cap on your car from the outside. Otherwise, thieves might be able see the keys you have hidden under your car.

You can also hide your keys in a nook in the dashboard or under the seat. Be careful not to put them too tightly because you could accidentally smash them when you close the door.

4. Contact the police

We can get lost when we are distracted. You might be running an errand that is quick, and you've left your keys on the car seat. Perhaps you require two hands to pick up a bag of food items. Whatever the reason it occurs to every person.

It is crucial to notify the police immediately if you lose any item. This way, you can make a report and help to keep your car safe from thieves. This step is especially crucial if you find your keys lost outside your home, at the store, or somewhere else public.

Make sure to go through every step before you begin. Try to be your own Sherlock Holmes and recreate the scene in your mind from the time you last observed them. Asking people around you whether they've seen your keys is also a excellent idea. This will help keep your vehicle safe and stop other people from stealing it. (This could result in additional costs, such as the purchase of new door locks and ignition). It is a good idea in the event that you have a spare car key, to duplicate it in case you lose it again.

5. Contact for a locksmith

People often forget where they placed their keys, particularly when they're busy or distracted. There are some things you can do to help.

Retrace the steps you've already taken and searching for the areas where you think they might be. If you're still unable to locate them, try looking inside the car. It's not common for people to lose their keys in their visors or on the keychain.

Call a locksmith and ask whether they can locate your keys. They may be able cut you a key or change your locks, if needed. They have the tools and expertise to remove broken or bent keys from locked doors.

If you do call a locksmith, make sure to show proof of ownership for your vehicle. You can do this by using your vehicle's registration or title. Depending on your situation, you may need to wait for a new key from the dealership, which can take several days.

6. Call Your Insurance Agent

There are times when you lose your car keys, and it can put a massive impact on your day. It could be because you were running a quick errand and accidentally left keys on the floor or maybe you put your keys down to grab something, but lost the track of it.

It's important to report lost keys as soon as you can to the police. This will be recorded on paper and will stop other people from using your car without permission. This will also ensure that you don't get punished.

Your homeowner's insurance may cover your keys if reported them as lost to the local police. They are considered personal property. However, it's still best to talk to your agent to ensure you're covered before filing an claim.

Consider buying a Bluetooth tracking device such as Apple AirTags or Tiles. This will save you the hassle of having to replace your car keys and provide you with peace of mind knowing that you always have your keys within reach.

7. Get a Bluetooth Key Tracker

Sometimes, you'll lose your keys when you least would. You could be on an urgent errand, only to do not remember to put them on the seat. Or, you might be getting out of your vehicle after a long day at work and forget where you placed keys.

There are ways to stop this happening again. One of the best options is to make use of a Bluetooth key tracker. These tiny devices can be affixed to a keyring or wallet and connect to an app on your phone. The app will flash or ring when you open it to aid you in finding your keys. These Bluetooth trackers come with community features that allow others to assist you in locating them if your keys are not in reach.

You can also avoid losing your keys by placing them in the same place every time you come home. It doesn't matter if place them in a bowl on the entry table or a hook by the door. Making this routine a habit will help you locate your keys in the future.

8. Get a Replacement Key

Whether you've lost your car keys or they've been stolen the most important thing is to inform your insurance provider right away. This way, you can rest sure that your claim will be dealt with properly should anything happen to the vehicle in the future.

If you already have a standard (non-chip) key, you can easily get an additional one from any locksmith or hardware store. This is the quickest and least expensive solution.

It may be more difficult for vehicles that have smart keys and require an electronic fob. You will likely have visit your local dealer and present proof of ownership to get a new key. This could cost of replacing lost Car keys you up to $200 based on the model and make of your vehicle.

To avoid this, make sure you have a spare key to keep it somewhere else than your keys. It's also a good idea to get rid of clutter in your office or home especially in areas where you are likely to lose things.