Why Lost Car Key Still Matters In 2023
How to Recover a Lost Car Key
Losing your car keys can be a stressful event. But you should try to remain calm and remember that losing your keys don't have to be a huge deal.
Key fobs that are modern are more sophisticated than traditional keys that only opened doors and turned on the ignition. It's important to know what to do in the event that you lose your key so that you don't have to shell out a large amount to replace it.
Retract your Steps
A lost car key could be a nightmare for anyone who drives. Thankfully, there are several ways you can recover your keys.
The first thing you must do is trace your steps. This simple technique can be extremely helpful in finding lost keys. It is possible that you dropped keys in a hurry and then forgot about them. It's helpful to trace your steps back so that you remember where you were when you last saw them. You should also check any locations you've been to recently, even if you don't usually keep your keys there. It's possible that your keys fell out of a pocket or bag and are buried somewhere you wouldn't think to.
Trackers are another great way to locate your keys that are lost. The device is small and attached to your keys. You can then use an app to locate the keys. This is only possible if you have electronic components in your keys, for example a remote key fob.
Contacting a local locksmith is the next step to take if you don't have a tracking device, or cannot locate your keys. They can assist you with the creation of an entirely new key and reprogram it for the anti-theft system in your vehicle. This can be costly and can cost hundreds of dollars.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may have to get towed to the dealer to get replacement keys. It is best to have a spare key available and take preventative measures to stop losing keys in the first place.
The most important thing to remember when you lose your car keys is to remain calm. When you can't locate your keys it's easy to get panicked. However, if you begin screaming at yourself, you'll make it much more difficult to find them. If you haven't found your keys within an acceptable amount of time, it may be time to call an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. No matter what you decide to do, be sure to tell your insurance company so they can assist if something happens to your vehicle in the future.
Check Your Hide Spots
It's important that you choose a place where passersby aren't in a position to see your spare key. If you don't, you're creating an easy target for thieves. Many people store their spare keys in a flower pot or planter, but this is not a good idea. If a burglar gets the keys, they could also find valuables, such as your wallet.
A popular place to hide is behind the front door. However, this could be difficult to gain access to in the event that you are locked out. Special locks that resemble regular locks and are attached to the inside of your door are available, however they can be expensive. An alternative that is less expensive is to hide the key beneath the door mat or in the grass. Some people make fake rocks that have a compartment inside them.
It is not unusual to store the key in the car. However, this can be dangerous. This trick is well-known to thieves, who may be able open the gas cap that is on the outside. If you are worried about this, get an electronic key holder that you can attach to the underside your vehicle. It looks similar to a license plate frame but is designed to secure the spare key in a concealed and hidden place.
Garages are another great place to hide your key, especially if you have a detached garage. A key that is hidden in a recess on the side of the garage door will remain out of reach and inaccessible unless you have an access ladder.
Vinyl siding can also be an ideal place to hide because there are usually tiny gaps where you can slide the key. Connect a piece of fishing line to the key, and then slide it into the split until a small amount is visible. This will stop the key from sliding if you happen to bump into it while searching for it.
You can also place the spare key at the end of a tree branch if you have a lot of trees on your property. If you live in an area with lots of trees it is a good option. Most people won't even think about looking here for your keys.
Try turning the car on
In the past, losing your car key was not a big deal. A locksmith could be called to help and the cost was usually around $20. Nowadays, cars are more and more advanced in terms of technology and are more expensive to replace.
A specific computer chip is required to start the engine in a brand new car. It communicates with the ECU. Without this, the car won't start. This is why it's important to ensure you have the right key for your car.
If you have an older style traditional key, you might be able find it in the lock and still start the vehicle. If this does not work, you might need to call a locksmith to create a new one or contact your dealership for assistance.
You can also try to start the car with a spare key. This is the best option for many new cars that are manual, as they come with a spare key. This is a little more risky and it depends on the particular vehicle you are driving, but it can work.
This technique also requires technical expertise and a toolbox. This method also involves disassembling an engine part and is not recommended for everyone. It is better to let a professional take care of this type of work particularly since you'll bypass some of the safety features in the vehicle.
It's always an excellent idea to have a spare car key in the event that you lose one. The most affordable alternative is to get an old-fashioned key made, however you can also purchase an electronic transponder or smart key. They're more expensive to replace and requires a trip to the dealership for a new key that's connected electronically to your vehicle.
Look back over your day
Everyone has had this experience: you lose your car keys. It's among the most stressful things you could do because it immediately ruins your day. You're going to be late to work and your errands aren't getting done. You might be required to replace your key fob when you rent vehicles. It's not necessary to be this way. You can stop losing your keys and ruining your day if you follow these simple tips.
Do not panic first. Breathing deeply can aid in calming down and focus your thoughts. It's also a good idea to note where you've been so you can revisit the place and figure out what happened to your keys.
If you can't remember where you put them down Begin by retracing your day. If you've lost them while you were out running errands to every stop and consider the things you were doing. Did you place them on the counter? Maybe you were picking something out of your bag and they got lost. Make sure you remember exactly where you were when you saw them.
Once you've completed your day, check everywhere else. You might have left them in a pocket inside the jacket you were wearing or in a bag you took with you. Make sure to search in places you'd never think of, like pockets on other people's clothes or under a sofa cushion.
If you're unable to locate your car keys, you can call someone to help. Ask your friends if they have seen keys, or better yet call an locksmith. The most important thing you don't want to do is end up paying for a new key, or worse, having your vehicle stolen. A professional can help you get your keys back fast and efficiently. It's also a good idea for you to have an extra car key, so be sure to keep it in a safe place.