The Time Has Come To Expand Your I Lost My Only Car Key Options
What to Do If You Lose Your Only Car Key
Things are lost in the whirlwind that is life such as kids, errands, work socializing with friends, etc. It's not always the big stuff. Sometimes, it's the little things, like keys.
For most cars, a new key can be created at the local hardware store, along with proof of ownership (car registration or title). This is a low-cost alternative.
Retract Your Steps
There is nothing more frustrating than losing your only car key and not being able get into your car. It can cost you time, money and peace of mind. The first thing you should do when you lose the only key to your car is to remain calm. Doing your best to panic isn't going to help you locate your keys faster, and could even make the situation worse.
Begin by attempting to remember when you last looked at your keys. They might have been lost when you brought groceries in or you could have put them in your pocket as you were running an run. Retracing your steps can aid in finding your lost keys in a matter of minutes.
If retracing steps isn't working try writing down all the places you visited during the day. This could trigger your memory and provide you with the clue to locate your keys. Make sure you check every location you recorded. Sometimes, keys "drift" to the side, floor or even under something and you might just be in a position to retrieve them right where you left them.
Take a look inside Your Car
Not so long ago the loss or misplacement of a car key was not a big deal. Most people had a spare attached to the car in a small container attached to the inside of the bumper. However, as cars get more technologically advanced keys are more likely to get lost. Replacing a lost or stolen car key may require a number of steps and could cost you hundreds of dollars, based on the kind of vehicle and the year of its model. It is essential to have a spare car key in the event that you lose your original.
Before you begin to panic about losing your sole car key take your breath and try to remain calm. Once you have your emotions under control, you can begin to work through the steps. Begin by retracing your steps and think about when you last had the keys in your palm. It's not uncommon to juggle your keys while you reach for other things, and sometimes they end on the floor of your car, where they aren't visible.
The next thing to do is thoroughly search your vehicle, particularly the areas where you typically place them. You may have accidentally knocked the items out of your bag, or left them on your dashboard after you exited your car to go into a store.
Examine your purses, pockets and bags. It's easy to overlook something in the deep pockets of your coat or a large bag, so be sure to empty them out and carefully examine every crevice.
If you're still having trouble finding your keys, you need to contact an expert locksmith and request assistance. If you own a traditional metal key with no electronic components, a locksmith could usually create an entirely new key on the spot. If you have a key with chips and is it is a newer model, you'll be required to contact the dealer to get a new one.
Be aware of your hiding spots
It's easy to forget your keys when you're working. If you were hurrying to leave, distracted by a sandwich while on the phone or forgot them, it is easy to lose them. It's a good thing most people keep an extra key in their home or workplace that they can easily locate. It is crucial to examine every place where you've put your spare key. These include obvious places such as a purse, backpack or a pocket on the sofa, a stack on your desk, or a dresser drawer. If you have a friend with you, ask them to check the same places as well.
There are a variety of magnetic boxes and mini-vaults that are designed to attach to your car so you can store a spare key in it. They are great for hiding keys since they won't break when you drive over bumps, and can protect your keys from the elements. A lot of these storage devices come with combination locks, which means that even if you give the key to a friend, they can't open it without your permission.
Another popular trick for hiding keys is to buy fake rocks with a compartment that is hidden. This is a great solution for outdoor areas, but you must be aware that thieves are often on the lookout for these items. If you do decide to employ this method make sure you use dark duct tape to make it harder for thieves to detect.
One final place to check is the hood of your car. If you have keys that open the cap for gas it could be an ideal spot to hide it as it won't be so obvious. Be sure to make use of a sturdy piece of tape to ensure the key doesn't come off or scratch the paint on your car when you attempt to take it out.
Lost car keys can be a huge hassle, but there are ways to lessen the impact they have on your day-to-day life. You can locate your keys by retracing Your Steps and checking the most likely hiding spots. A local locksmith can assist you in avoiding wasting time and money.
Contact a Locksmith
If you lose your car keys and you've lost it, you must contact a locksmith. They'll be able to help you recover the key quickly, and also be able to advise you on how to prevent this from happening again in the future. You could also contact the local key duplication company. However, they will require the exact type, make and year of your car to duplicate keys.
If lost keys car is a newer model, or if it uses an electronic key fob, you'll have to visit your dealer for a replacement. This can be costly, especially if they need to purchase the correct key for your vehicle, and it can take days or even weeks.
Many people don't know that locksmiths can provide the same service for only a fraction of the cost of a dealership. Many insurance policies cover locksmith costs and towing costs in the event of a lost or stolen keys. Some even offer roadside assistance, which will provide professionals to help you get into your car.
If you have comprehensive auto insurance, you should be reviewing your coverage prior to deciding to go with a dealership. It's essential to inform your car's owner as soon as you can. This will help to ensure that your vehicle is not used without permission and you are protected in the event of a robbery or assault. By declaring your keys, you also alert police officers to anyone who may try to use your car illegally. In the event of a worst-case scenario it could also protect you from charges of criminality if someone does try to steal your vehicle. It is crucial not to be frightened if you lose your only car keys. Instead, try the above steps and seek the assistance of a family member, if needed.