lost my car key My Car Keys? Here's What to Do

You'll lose your keys at some point, regardless of how to replace a lost car key well organized you are. In the event of this happening, it's important to know what to do.

Based on the model of your car the first phone call you need to make is a locksmith or a dealership. They can design keys for replacement for your vehicle.

1. Retract your steps

There are few things more difficult than losing your car keys. It can ruin your entire day, create anxiety and even trigger unsavory phonecalls 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. (Parent Logic says this is always the case). In reality it is possible for the situation to be much more serious. If you lose your keys, it is essential to remain calm and follow the steps.

Be aware that a lot of things are not lost forever and can be located in the most unlikely places. Before taking drastic measures, it's recommended to go back and look over your steps. To accomplish this it's recommended to bring a flashlight to help you search in dark areas and drawers. You could also ask someone to assist you for items, as a second pair of eyes can be extremely helpful.

2. Check the Inside

If you haven't found your car keys after retracing your steps and checking in common places like key hooks, look for them in pockets, bags and jackets that you've worn or wore recently. If you lost your keys in a shop and you are unsure of where to find them, ask other customers or employees if they have noticed something out of the ordinary.

Checking your pockets and bags for keys missing may seem like common sense however, you must take the time to do it with care. Clean your pockets, including the ones on purses and jackets. Check every zippered area. It's also recommended to go through the trash and recycle bins in the event that your keys fell out of your bag and were crushed by something other.

You can also trace your steps and look in places where the item isn't in, like the fridge or freezer. Many items get lost when we look for something but we forget about it. then forget about it.

3. Check the Outside

You've had a tough day and just want to get back home, change into your cozy sweats, eat pizza, and watch your favorite TV show. You realize that your car keys are missing.

While you're retracing your steps, check overly cluttered spaces like tabletops and desks as well as the pockets of your clothes. You may also leave your keys in a crowded area, such as in the door handle or refrigerator.

Under the car is another popular hiding spot. However, if you do this make sure you are able to open the gas cap from outside your car because thieves could easily spot you crouching under your vehicle to hide your keys there.

You could also consider hiding your keys in a nook in the dashboard or under the seat. Make sure you don't put them there too tight as you might accidentally crush them as you close the car door.

4. Contact the police

It is easy to lose things when we're distracted. You could be on the run for a few minutes and put your keys in the seat, or you might just need two free hands to grab a bag full of food items. Whatever the reason it happens to everyone.

It is essential to notify the police immediately if you lose anything. This way, you can file a report and help protect your vehicle from thieves. This step is especially important if your keys are lost outside your home or at the store or at a location that is public.

Before you start ensure that you retrace your steps. Try to be your own Sherlock Holmes and recreate the scene in your mind from when you last observed them. Asking your friends and family whether they've seen your keys is another good idea. This will keep your car safe and deter others from using it. (This could lead to additional expenses such as new ignition locks and door locks). It is a good idea if you have an extra car key to duplicate it in the event that you lose it again.

5. Call a Locksmith

It's normal for people to lose track of where they have put their keys, especially when they're distracted or in a hurry. There are a few simple tips you can use to assist.

Start by retracing the steps you've already taken and searching in the places you believe they may be. If you're still struggling to find them, try looking inside the car. It's not uncommon for people to leave their keys under the visor or on the keychain.

Lastly, call an locksmith to find out if they can assist you in finding your keys that have disappeared. They might be able to make you a new key or even change the locks on your home if needed. They also have the tools and expertise to remove broken or bent keys from locked doors.

If you do call locksmiths, be prepared to provide proof of ownership for your vehicle. This includes your vehicle's registration or title. Depending on your situation, you may need to wait for a new key from the dealership, which can take several days.

6. Contact Your Insurance Agent

There are occasions when you're unable to locate your car keys, and it can put a massive impact on your day. You could have been on an errand that was quick and misplaced your keys on the seat, or you might have put them down to get something to grab for a second and then lost track.

It's important to report a lost key as soon as possible to the police. This will create a paper trail and can keep people from using your vehicle without your permission. It also prevents you from being penalized.

The homeowner's insurance policy could cover your keys if you have reported them as lost to local police. They are considered personal property. But, it's advisable to check with your agent to confirm that you're covered before filing an insurance claim.

Consider investing in 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 key replacement and provide peace of mind knowing your keys are always within reach.

7. Get a Bluetooth Key Tracker

Sometimes, you'll lose your keys at the time you least would. You could be on an errand and you forget to put them on the seat. Or, you might be getting out of your vehicle after a long workday and not remember where you placed them.

There are ways to prevent this from happening again. The best method for doing this 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. The app will flash or ring when you open it, to help you locate your keys. A majority of these Bluetooth trackers also have community functions so that others can assist you to find them if they are lost.

Another excellent way to avoid losing your keys is to place them in the same spot each time you arrive home. It doesn't matter whether you put them in a bowl on the table or hang them on an iron by the door. Making this an habit will help you locate your keys in the future.

8. Get a Replacement Key

It is essential to inform your insurance company immediately if you lose your keys to your car or if they're stolen. You can be certain that your claim will be handled properly if anything happens to the car in the future.

If you own a standard key (which does not contain chips) you can simply get an replacement from any locksmith or hardware store. This is the quickest and most affordable solution.

For more modern cars with a smart key that needs an electronic fob, it may be a little more difficult. You will need go to your local dealer to purchase a new key. This could cost you up to $200, based on the model and make of your car.

To avoid this, make sure you have a spare key and keep it somewhere else than your keys. It's also an excellent idea to clean your house or office particularly in the areas where you are likely to lose things.