How to Find a Lost Key Car
One of the easiest things to lose is a car key. This can be a huge inconvenience if you have no spare key.
The good news is that most keys can be replaced fairly cheaply. It is best to begin the search immediately. Remain calm, follow your steps and conduct a thorough search.
Retract your steps
If you've ever lost your keys to your car and you've experienced it, you'll know it can be a stressful experience. Whether you were running on errands, and then left keys in the car, or you misplaced them in the chaos of getting out of the car It occurs to all of us. There are some steps you can take to locate your keys.
First take care to remain calm. Doing your best to locate your keys faster and can only make the situation worse. Make a conscious effort to remember the last time you had keys in your hand or where you may have seen them last. You could also look around the area you think you have found your keys by looking around the ground, in bushes or under floor mats.
Another alternative is to write down all the places you've been throughout the day in case memory doesn't come through for you. If you don't own a pen and a piece of paper, you can stroll around the home or the places you went to during the day and check all pockets on your bags, clothes and other things.
If you have a spare key, this is the perfect time to use it. This will save you lots of anxiety and frustration in the short term and you won't have to contact a dealer or a locksmith for a replacement key.
If you don't have an extra key It's time to contact your local police station and inquire about keys that were reported lost or discovered in the area. Sometimes, lost key car in their lost car keys and are waiting to be picked up by the right person. This is especially true if the vehicle is older and doesn't have a tracking system built in like some of the newer models. A professional locksmith can replace your lost keys quickly and efficiently providing you with peace of mind.
Call Your Insurance Company
You must admit that losing keys can be a hassle. It's not just a nuisance, it costs you money. Most insurance providers provide a car key protection policy that will save you money on replacing your lost keys. However, before you file an insurance claim, make sure that you check that your keys are covered under your policy.
If you don't have an extra spare, it might be difficult to replace your lost car key. Luckily, a locksmith or a car dealer can create duplicate keys for you, when they have your vehicle's key code or VIN number. This service is usually for free if you have roadside assistance.
Take a deep breath, and calm yourself down when you are unable to locate your car keys. Panicking will only make you frustrated and won't help find your keys any quicker. When you've settled down and regained confidence, look in your pockets, as well as other obvious places like the laptop bag or purse that you carried. It's also recommended to look into places you would never think to check, such as the floor of your home or inside your shoes.
Modern cars are stocked with smart keys that emit an electronic signal when they're in the range of the vehicle's immobilizer system. They can be replaced by a dealer or a certified locksmith but they can be expensive. If you are worried about the expense of a key, you can consider an old-fashioned key. They don't require a fancy chip, and can be easily duplicated by locksmiths.
The procedure of submitting an insurance claim for the loss of a car key can be complex and time-consuming. You will also have to pay for an deductible that can be much more expensive than the cost of a replacement car key. It's not worth it to file an insurance claim when you lose your car key. It's worth checking the policy and optional riders offered by your car insurance provider to see if there is protection for keys that are lost.
Contact Your Dealership
If you own a smart key car, or one that uses a transponder to unlock your doors or start the engine, you'll have to call your dealership to get an replacement. The keys emit a unique electronic code that vehicles can recognize, allowing it to communicate with the chip inside to unlock doors or start the engine. You will need to present proof of ownership at the dealership to obtain a replacement key.
The primary drawback of contacting the dealership is the lengthy process. Dealerships have to be able handle thousands of customers every day. You'll probably fall off the list, unless you need an urgent appointment or something else. Another issue is that dealers will charge you a premium to replace your key. The decision on whether or not this is worth the extra cost will depend on your preferences and your budget.
Another option is to go to an locksmith. A local locksmith is more streamlined because they're usually only one person you can contact and talk to directly. This will help you avoid lengthy wait times and problems. Many auto locksmiths will also be available during off hours to assist you even if the dealership is closed.
The main reason to choose a locksmith is that they can create a traditional car key on the spot. This is a great alternative to going to the dealership, particularly if you are in a rush and need to go somewhere. The biggest disadvantage of using a locksmith that they won't be able replace your smart key. If you're seeking the best solution for your needs, contact both an agent and locksmith. The final decision will depend on what you most value in your experience with the service.
Contact an expert locksmith
Car keys are one of the most frequent things people lose. They are light and small, and can fit into any pocket. However, they are easily lost if you do not know where to search. It is important to act swiftly if you have lost your car key. Try your spare first. You'll need a locksmith if you don't have an extra.
Even if you do not have the original key, an experienced NYC locksmith can make you a replacement car key. It may take longer than going to the dealer, but you'll pay less. If you do go to the dealership, make sure you bring proof of ownership with you such as your registration or title.
Be sure to look over every possible spot where you may have placed it prior to calling a locksmith. For instance, you could have slid it under the seat or into the cupholder. You may have tripped over it and forgot about it.
If you are unable to locate your keys anywhere, contact your insurance company immediately. Inform them of the situation in writing, so that there is no chance that your claim will be rejected in the future.
Certain companies such as AAA can help you locate your lost car key for a fee. They can only help in a limited amount. If you lose your smart key, the dealer can only create an additional one for you.
Getting a replacement at the dealership is expensive If you have a locksmith, it can be much more affordable. You'll need the vehicle's make, model year, and documents proving ownership, such as an official title or registration in order to complete the process. In addition, if your key fob has gone lost, be prepared to wait for a couple of days before having it reprogrammed. The key fob transmits an electronic code that is readable by your vehicle. If it is lost, it will be impossible to start the car.