How to Find a Lost Key Car

One of the easiest things to misplace is the car key. If you don't have a spare key, this can be a major problem.

The good news is that the majority of keys that are lost can be repaired fairly cheaply. However, it is best to start the search right away. Follow your steps, do a thorough search and be at a steady pace.

Retract Your Steps

You know how stressful it is to lose your keys to your car. Whether you were running for errands and forgot keys in the car, or you just misplaced them in the chaos of getting out of the car, it happens to the best of us. Luckily, there are a few steps you can follow to help find your lost key.

First, stay calm. Stressing yourself out won't help you locate your keys quicker and can only make the situation worse. Remember the last time you held them in your hands or the last time they were seen. It's also recommended to look around the area in which you think you've found your keys, looking for them on the ground or in bushes, or even under mats for floors.

Another alternative is to note down every place you've been during the day in case memory doesn't come through for you. If you don't have a pen and paper it's a good idea to walk around your home or the places you visited during the day, and check all pockets of your clothes, bags and other items once more.

If you have a spare key, this is the best time to make use of it. This will save you lots of frustration and anxiety in the short run and also save you from having to call an locksmith or your dealer for an additional key.

If you do not have a spare, now is the time to call your local police station and ask whether they have keys that were lost or found that you may have turned in from the nearby region. Some people are willing to surrender their keys that they lost and are waiting to be picked by the right person. This is especially true if your vehicle is older and does not have an integrated tracking system like some of the more modern models. A professional locksmith will quickly and easily replace the key you lost and give you peace of mind.

Call Your Insurance Company

You must admit that losing keys can be a hassle. It's not just a nuisance and costs you money. Most insurance providers offer a car key protection policy, which can help you save money on replacing your lost keys. However, prior to filing an insurance claim, make sure you verify whether your keys are covered under your policy.

It may be difficult to obtain a replacement for your lost car keys if you don't have an extra. Luckily, a locksmith or a car dealer can create a duplicate for you provided they have your car's key code or VIN number. This service is usually for free when you have roadside assistance.

The best thing to do when you're trying to locate your car keys is to take a deep breath and calm down. The stress of panicking will only make you more frustrated and won't aid in finding the keys any faster. Once you've calmed down, begin looking through your pockets and other obvious places, such as the laptop bag or purse you were carrying. It's also an excellent idea to look in places you would never think to check, such as the floor of your home or the inside of your shoes.

Smart keys are available in most modern cars. They emit an electronic signal when they come within range of the immobilizer system. They can be replaced by a dealership or a certified locksmith however, they can be expensive. If you're worried about the price of a new key consider getting a traditional key instead. These keys don't need a fancy chip, and can be duplicated by locksmiths.

Making a claim on your car insurance for a lost key could be a bit complicated, and the process will take time. In addition, you'll have to pay a deductible which can be more expensive than the cost of an alternative key. This is why it's not always a good idea to file a claim for a lost car key. However, it's worth checking your car insurance provider's policies as well as optional riders to see whether they provide insurance for keys lost by a car.

Call Your Dealership

You'll need to call your dealer to order an additional smart key or transponder if you have one. The keys emit an electronic code that can be recognized by the vehicle, allowing the vehicle to communicate with the chip to unlock your doors or start your engine. If your smart key has been lost, you'll need to provide proof of ownership to a dealership employee to have it replaced.

The biggest drawback to calling the dealership is that it's a long procedure. Dealerships need to be able to work with thousands of customers every day, and you'll most likely fall down the priority list unless you have an appointment or nearby a pressing need. Dealerships also charge you a fee for replacing your key. Your budget and preferences will determine whether this is worth it.

Another option is to visit the locksmith. Local locksmiths are more efficient since you can usually speak directly to them. This will save you from unnecessary waiting for hours and difficulties. A lot of auto locksmiths will be available during off hours to assist you even when the dealership is closed.

The main reason to choose a locksmith is that they can create a standard car key on the spot. This can be a fantastic alternative to visiting the dealership, especially when you're in a hurry to get somewhere. The biggest drawback of using a locksmith that they won't be able replace your smart key. If you're seeking the best solution to make a call, you should contact both a dealer and locksmith. The decision will ultimately come down to your needs in terms of service.

Contact an expert locksmith

Many people lose their keys to their car. They are light, small and fit in nearly every pocket, but they are also difficult to locate if you don't know where to search for them. It is crucial to act quickly if you have lost your car key. If you have a spare key, try it first. Otherwise, you'll need call an locksmith.

Even if you do not have the original key, an experienced NYC locksmith can make you an alternative car key. It may take longer than visiting the dealer, but you'll pay less. If you do visit the dealership, be sure you bring proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

Before calling a locksmith, make sure that you thoroughly check every spot where you could have placed it. For instance, you may have put it under the seat or into the cupholder. It is also possible that you dropped it on the ground somewhere and forgot about it.

Contact your insurance company right away in the event that you are unable to locate your keys. Inform them of the situation in writing in order to ensure there is no chance your claim will be rejected later on.

Some companies, like AAA are able to help you find your lost auto key replacement key car for a cost. However they can only offer a limited amount. If you lose your smart key the dealer can only create another one for you.

Locksmiths can be an alternative that is much less expensive to a dealership. Make sure you have the information necessary to do the job like the make, model and year of your vehicle, and evidence that you are the owner of the vehicle, like an official title or registration. If your key fob has been lost and you are unable to find it, you must wait several days for it to be changed. The key fob generates an electronic code that is readable by your vehicle. If it is lost and is not found, it will be difficult to start the car.