What to Do If You Lose Your Car Keys

It can be quite frustrating to lose your car keys. In the shuffle of school pick-ups, shopping trips to the grocery store and other chores, things sometimes get misplaced.

The most important thing to remember is not to get in a state of panic. Finding the key is usually retracing your steps.

1. Retract your steps

It's no fact that keys are among the most commonly misplaced items. Whether you're running an errand and get distracted while getting out of your vehicle, or you're at home trying to prepare for the day and forget your keys in a hurry, it can happen to anyone. There are a few steps you can take before calling a locksmith in case you've lost your keys.

The first step is to retrace your steps. This can be a challenge when you're in a panic however, it's crucial to remember exactly where you last saw your keys and the places that you went after that. It might also be helpful to note down your steps so that you can look them up later on.

If you have searched in the most obvious places but cannot find your keys, you may have to look in other places. Examine your purses and pockets, as well as the home. Keep in mind that your keys are probably somewhere nearby - just not in the location you'd expect. It could also be helpful to locate your keys near any other items they are typically associated with, such as the laptop or purse.

If you've tried all these options but you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to call for an emergency locksmith that is available 24 hours a day. Before you call a locksmith, make sure you follow these suggestions to stop your keys from disappearing again.

2. Find a spare key

It's not uncommon for nearby car keys to disappear from pockets of coats and couch cushions, or just by themselves. It was once simple to replace keys that were lost at any hardware or locksmith store. However, with the advancements in key fob technology, it's become much more difficult to find the replacement keys for keys lost.

It's recommended to keep a spare key in your car. A spare key can save you from calling a tow truck, and will help you get your vehicle back if you happen to losing your key a lot easier. It's best to keep the spare key somewhere else than your keychain to ensure it isn't as easy to lose. If you don't have a spare key, you should consider having one made to minimize the chances of losing your keys.

Depending on the type of vehicle you own, you can have a traditional key created by a locksmith, or a dealership. It is important to know that the dealer might need to program the key for your particular vehicle.

Many modern vehicles come with keyless entry systems that let you unlock your car using remote controls. This is also referred to as a "fob." If you lose your fob the only way to get your car started from scratch is to go to the locksmith or dealer and let them connect a new fob to your vehicle. To avoid this from happening, make it a habit to put your keys in the same spot every time you get home. You can place your keys in a bowl or hook on the front porch, or in the entry table.

3. Empty Your Pockets

The loss of your car keys is a terrible feeling. Whether you dropped them in the rush to get out of the house or your little ones hid them in the couch for a game of hide-andseek and then lost your keys to your car can make you feel frantic and overwhelmed.

The act of blaming yourself won't solve the problem and may cause it to get worse. Try to remain calm and use the steps below to find your keys as fast as you can.

Begin by reminiscing about your day and remembering the last place you were when you last saw them. Go through all your bags and pockets in case you remember they were in your wallet. You can also go through the steps you followed to see whether they were found else. Finally, you can always examine your vehicle to determine if they've been left there, but you'll need to thoroughly search the interior and exterior nearby of your vehicle.

If you have searched everywhere and still haven't found your car keys, then it's time to conduct more sophisticated searches. This includes searching the fridge and freezer to find your keys. You will need to open and shut each appliance and look inside for small items.

Another excellent method to avoid losing your car keys is to connect them to a lanyard that is long or a chain. This will make it easier to locate keys because they're more noticeable and longer. You can also make your keys stand out by using a bright colour.

4. Call the police

The first step to take after losing your keys is to contact the police. Notifying the police of your keys missing from your car immediately is crucial so that you do not need to worry about someone using your car or even entering your home. The early reporting of your loss will also help you in terms of insurance coverage since the majority of policies cover locksmith expenses and even replacement keys from dealerships.

They will be able let you know if they've discovered your keys or if they've been stolen when you call them. They will also give you some advice on how to avoid the theft of your keys. If your keys haven't yet been found, they'll likely request you to give details of the time you lost them and what you were doing prior that incident.

Examine your bags, pockets and other places you usually carry the key. After you've done that then go back through your day and try to remember where you lost the keys. You may have dropped them on a table, or in your bag while reaching for something.

If you have a transponder key that works electronically, it must be connected to your car, which can only be done at the dealership. This can cost several hundreds of dollars, based on the brand and model. You can also contact GEICO for assistance in an emergency that is available 24/7 via the GEICO app. This service will save you money and time by delivering a mobile locksmith to you.

5. Call a Locksmith

When you're on the run and put your car keys in the trunk for a moment and they'll disappear. This scenario is common, since keys are the most misplaced item in the United States1. It's not possible to prevent this from happening all the time. But you can take steps to reduce your chances of losing them.

Having a spare key can aid, but it won't guarantee that you will not lose the original. A tracking device on your keychain will help you find your keys should they disappear. A tracking device will send an alert to your smartphone when it detects an indication from your key that has been lost and makes it easier to locate.

If you cannot find your car keys, call locksmiths who will come and replace them. The locksmith will be able make a new key for you, provided that you have proof that you are the owner, such as your vehicle's title or registration.

Keys that are traditional are the most simple to replace. If you own a remote key fob or smart key, you will have to call your dealer to have one made. You can also purchase replacement keys online. However, make sure you check if the key can be programmed to the specific vehicle you own.

The loss of your car keys can be a stressful event however it does not have to be. You can retrieve your keys by following these tips. Be sure to remain calm, and don't panic! Be aware that you aren't alone. Everyone loses their keys at some time.