10 Apps That Can Help You Control Your Lost My Car Keys
Lost My Car Keys? Here's What to Do
Whatever way you are, there will come the time that you'll have to lose your car keys. If this happens, it's important to be prepared.
Based on the model of your car, the first call you must make is to a locksmith or a dealership. They can design an alternative key that will fit your vehicle.
1. Retract replacing a lost car key
There aren't many things that are more frustrating than losing the keys to your car. It can ruin your day, create a lot of anxiety and even lead to unpleasant phone calls from strangers. The loss of keys is a problem that happens to everyone regardless of how well organized you are.
The ideal scenario is that they appear exactly where you left them. ( replacing lost car key says this is the case). In reality the situation could be much more serious. It is crucial to stay calm and follow your steps if you lose your keys.
Keep in mind that many things aren't lost forever and can be discovered in the most unlikely places. So, before taking extreme measures it's a good idea to retrace your steps and conduct a thorough search. Bring a flashlight with you to search dark corners and drawers. You could also ask a friend or family member to search with you for a second pair of eyes can be beneficial.
2. Check the Inside
If you can't find your keys after retracing steps and examining places you've used such as key hooks, examine the pockets, bags and jackets you've recently worn or used. If you lost your keys in a shop, ask other shoppers or employees if they've noticed something unusual.
Examining your bags and pockets for missing keys may seem obvious however, you must do it thoroughly. Clean out all pockets you carry such as purses and jackets and be sure to check every zippered space. It's also an excellent idea to go through the trash and recycle bins in case keys got lost in your bag and got crushed by something else.
It might be beneficial to retrace your steps once again and look for places you know they aren't like the refrigerator or freezer. Sometimes, items are lost when we try to find them but then take them off and forget about them.
3. Check the Outside
You've had a long day and just want to go home, put on your cozy sweats, eat some pizza, and binge-watch your favorite TV show. You realize that your car keys are missing.
While you're walking around be sure to check out areas that are cluttered like desks and tabletops and also the pockets of your clothing items. It's also common to leave keys in a congested area, such as in a door handle or in the refrigerator, so make sure to thoroughly check those places.
Another popular hiding place is under the car. However, if you do this, make sure you can access the gas cap from outside your car as a thief could easily see you crouching beneath your vehicle to hide your keys.
You can also hide your keys in a small nook on the dashboard or under the seat. Be careful not to put them too tightly, as they could be crushed when you close the door.
4. Call the Police
It is easy to lose things when we're distracted. You might be running an errand that is quick, and you've forgotten your keys on the seat. Or maybe you need two hands to pick up an empty bag of groceries. Whatever the reason it occurs to everyone.
It is essential to notify the police immediately if you have lost anything. This way, you will be able to file a report and help protect your vehicle from thieves. This is important in the event that you lose your keys outside your home, at the store or in public.
Before you do this ensure that you follow your steps. Recreate the scene you saw when you last looked at your keys in your mind. It's also recommended to inquire of other people in the area whether they have seen your car keys. This will keep your car safe and deter others from stealing it. (This could lead to additional costs, such as the purchase of new locks for doors and ignition). It is a good idea if you have a spare car key, to make a duplicate in case you lose it again.
5. Contact a locksmith
Many people forget where they put their keys, especially when they're busy or distracted. There are a few simple tips you can use to aid.
Start by retracing the steps you've already taken and then searching for the locations you believe they may be. If you're still not able to locate them, check the car. It's not uncommon for people to lose their keys in the visor or on the keychain.
Last but not least, contact a locksmith to find out if they can help you find your keys that have disappeared. They might be able to cut you a key or change your locks, if necessary. They also have the tools and know-how to remove bent or broken keys from locked doors.
When you do call a locksmith, be prepared to show proof of the ownership of your vehicle. This includes your registration or title. You might have to wait for several days for a dealership to send you a replacement key, dependent on the circumstances.
6. Call Your Insurance Agent
There are occasions when you lose your car keys, and it can put a massive impact on your day. It could be because you were running an task and left them on the seat or perhaps you put your keys down for a second to grab something and lost the track of it.
It is important to report lost keys immediately to the police. This will create a paper record and help prevent other people from using your car without permission. This can also allow you to avoid being punished.
If you've reported your keys as lost to the police the homeowner's insurance might cover them since they're considered personal property. It is recommended to contact your agent to confirm that you are covered before filing an insurance claim.
Consider purchasing an Bluetooth tracking device like Apple AirTags or Tiles. This will help you avoid the stress of having to replace your car keys and give you peace-of-mind knowing that you always have your keys in reach.
7. Get a Bluetooth key tracker
Keys can be lost at any moment. You could be on the run and forget to put them down on the seat or may be getting out of your car after an exhausting day at work and can't remember where you put them.
There are ways to stop this happening again. One of the best ways is to use a Bluetooth key tracker. These tiny devices are connected to your wallet or keyring and connect to an app for your phone. When you launch the app, it will ring or flash to assist you find your keys. These Bluetooth trackers have community features that allow other users to assist you in locating them in case your keys are not in range.
You can also make sure you don't lose your keys by putting them in the same spot every time you arrive home. It doesn't matter if you put them in a bowl on the table or hang them on a hook near the door. Making this an habit will make it easier to find your keys in the future.
8. Find a replacement key
It is crucial to inform your insurance company immediately when you lose your keys to your car or if they're stolen. 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 have a regular key (which doesn't have chip) you can simply get a replacement at any hardware store or locksmith. This is the quickest and cheapest solution.
For more modern cars with a smart key that needs an electronic fob, it may be a little more difficult. You'll likely need to go to the local dealership and provide proof of ownership to get a new key. Based on the make and model of your vehicle, this could cost you upwards of $200.
To avoid this, make sure you have a spare key and keep it somewhere else than your keys. It's also a good idea to declutter your office or home, especially the place where you tend to lose things.