Lost My Car Keys? Here's What to Do

No matter how well-organized you are, there will come a time when you lose your car keys. If this happens it is crucial to be aware of what to do.

Depending on your vehicle, the first call you need to make is a locksmith or a dealership. These experts can create 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 entire day, create anxiety and even cause you to receive unwanted phone 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 end up exactly where you left them (Parent Logic would argue this is always the case). But, in reality things tend to take a darker direction. If you lose your keys, it's crucial to be calm and not panic. You can then retrace the steps.

It's important to keep in mind that most things won't disappear for ever, and are often found in some very unusual places. So, before resorting to extreme measures, it's a good idea to go back and conduct a thorough search. Bring a flashlight with you to search for dark corners and drawers. You can also ask replacing a lost car key friend to assist you in your search for lost car keys how to replace you, as a second pair eyes can be extremely helpful.

2. Check the Inside

If you are unable to locate your keys after retracing steps and examining common areas like key hooks examine the pockets, bags and jackets that you recently were wearing or used. If you've lost them in a store, ask employees or customers to determine if they saw anything unusual.

Checking your pockets and bags for keys that are missing might seem obvious, but you should take the time to do it with care. Empty your pockets, even those on purses and jackets. Feel around the zippered areas. It's also a good idea to comb through the trash and recycling bins in the event that keys were to fall out of your bag and were crushed by something other.

You could also retrace your footsteps and search in places you know the item isn't, like the freezer or fridge. Many items are lost when we look for something but then we take it away and then forget about it.

3. Check the Outside

You've had a long day and you're eager to go back home, change into your comfy sweats, eat pizza, and binge-watch your favorite TV show. Unfortunately, you realize the keys to your car have disappeared.

Check pockets and desks that are overly filled with. It's also not uncommon to lose your keys in a crowded spot like on the handle of a door or in the refrigerator, so make sure you've checked these places.

Another favorite place to hide your keys is under the car. If you decide to hide your keys there be sure you can open the gas cap on your car from the outside. Otherwise, a thief might be able see the keys you have hidden under your car.

You can also store your keys in a nook on the dashboard or under the seats. Be careful not to place them too tightly, as you may accidentally crush them when you shut the door.

4. Call the Police

Sometimes, we lose things because we're a little distracted. You could be running an errand and you have put your keys on the seat or you might just require two hands to grab a bag full of groceries. Whatever the reason, it happens to all.

It is essential to notify the police immediately if you lose any item. You can then make a police report to help protect your car from theft. This is important when you lose your keys outside your home, in the shop, or anywhere else in public.

Before you begin ensure that you retrace your steps. Recreate the scene from the last time you looked at your keys in your head. It is also an excellent idea to ask others in the vicinity if they have seen your car keys. This will help keep your vehicle secure and prevent others from using 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 an extra car key to duplicate it in the event that you lose it again.

5. Contact an expert locksmith

It's not uncommon for people to forget where they put their keys, particularly when they're busy or distracted. There are a few easy ways to assist.

Begin by retracing your steps and searching the places you think you may have left them. If you're still unable to find them, try looking inside the car. Many people have keys that are hanging from their keychains or the visor It's a good idea to take a quick look in there.

Finally, lost car keys how to replace contact an locksmith to see if they are able to assist you in finding your lost keys. They might be able to cut you a key or change the locks if required. They have the tools and know-how to remove broken or bent keys from locked doors.

Be prepared to show proof of ownership when you call a locksmith. You can use your vehicle's registration or title. Depending on your situation you may have to wait for a replacement key from the dealership which could take a few days.

6. Contact Your Insurance Agent

It is possible to lose your keys to your car at times and it can make your day miserable. You could have been on an errand that was quick and accidentally left your keys on the seat, or you could have put them down to grab something for a moment and then lost track.

Reporting a stolen or lost car Keys how to replace key to the police as quickly as you can is crucial. This creates a paper trail and will help keep other people from using your vehicle without your permission. This can also ensure that you don't get penalized.

If you've reported your keys as lost to the police and your homeowner's insurance could be able to take them in as personal property. However, it's still best to check with your agent to make sure you're covered before you file a claim.

Think about buying the purchase of a Bluetooth tracking device such as Apple AirTags or Tiles. This will help you avoid having to go through the hassle of a car keys replacement and give you peace of mind knowing your keys are always within reach.

7. Get a Bluetooth Key Tracker

You can lose your keys at any moment. You could be on a quick errand, and forget to place them on the seat. Or, you might be leaving your car after a long working day and not remember where you put keys.

There are ways to stop this from happening again. One of the best options is to use a Bluetooth key tracker. These tiny devices can be attached to a keyring or wallet and connect to an app on your smartphone. When you open the app, it will ring or flash to assist you find your keys. These Bluetooth trackers come with community features that allow other users to help you locate them if your keys aren't in range.

Another great way to avoid losing your keys is to always put them in the same spot each time you arrive home. It doesn't matter if put them in an table or hang them on a hook by the door. Making this an habit will make it easier to locate your keys in the future.

8. Find a replacement key

It is essential to inform your insurance company immediately if you lose your keys to your car, or if they are stolen. This way, you can rest assured that your claim will be dealt with in a timely manner should anything happen to the vehicle in the future.

If you have a regular key (which does not have a chip) you can purchase an replacement from any hardware store or locksmith. This is usually the quickest and least expensive option.

For modern vehicles with a smart key that needs an electronic fob, it might be a little more difficult. You will need to visit your local dealer to obtain a replacement key. Depending on the model and make of your car, this could cost upwards of $200.

To avoid this, keep an extra set of keys in a different place than your keys. It's also a good idea to declutter your office or home particularly in the areas where you are likely to lose things.