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Lost My Car Keys? Here's What to Do
You will lose your keys at some point, regardless of how well organized you are. If this happens it's crucial to be aware of what to do.
Based on the model of your car, the first call you must make is to a locksmith or a dealership. These experts can design keys for replacement for your vehicle.
1. Retract your Steps
There aren't many things more difficult than losing the keys to your car. It can ruin your entire day, cause anxiety and even lead you to receive unsavory phonecalls from strangers. The loss of your keys is something that can happen to anyone regardless of how organized you are.
The best case scenario is for them to turn up exactly where you left them (Parent Logic would argue this is the norm). However, the situation can often be more serious. If you lose your keys, it is essential to be calm and not panic. You can then retrace the steps.
Remember that many things are not lost forever and can be located in the most unlikely places. Before taking drastic measures, it is recommended to go back and look over your steps. In order to do this, it's a good idea to carry a flashlight to aid you in searching dark areas and drawers. You can also ask someone to assist you in your search for you, because a second pair of eyes can be very helpful.
2. Check the Inside
If you haven't found your car keys after retracing your steps and checking in the usual places, such as key hooks, search for them in pockets, bags and jackets that you've worn or used recently. If you've lost them in the store, talk to others who are customers or employees to determine if they saw anything out of the ordinary.
It might seem obvious to look in your pockets and bags for the missing car keys However, it's essential to do it in a thorough manner. Empty your pockets, even those on jackets and purses. Check every zippered area. It's also a good idea to comb through the recycling and trash bins in the event that your keys were to fall out of your bag and were crushed by something other.
You can also retrace your steps and look in places where the item isn't in, like the freezer or fridge. Many items get 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 tiring day and are eager to get back home, change into your comfy sweats, eat pizza, and binge-watch your favorite show. You realize that your car keys are missing.
While you're retracing your steps take a look at areas that are overly cluttered like tabletops and desks as well as the pockets of your clothing items. You can also put your keys in a busy area, such as the handle of your door or in the refrigerator.
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 outside. Otherwise, thieves might be able see you hiding your keys under your car.
You could also consider hiding your keys in a corner in the dashboard or under the seat. Be sure that you don't secure them too tight as you might accidentally smash them when you shut the car door.
4. Call the police
Sometimes, we lose things simply because we're a little distracted. You could be running a quick errand, and you've left your keys on the seat. Or maybe you need two hands to grab an empty bag of food items. It happens to all of us.
It is crucial to notify the police immediately if you lose any item. This way, you can submit a claim and help protect your vehicle from thieves. This is essential when you have lost your keys outside your home, at the store or in public.
Before you do this, be sure to go back to your steps. Recreate the scene you saw the last time you glimpsed your keys in your mind. Asking your friends and family whether they've seen your keys is a excellent idea. This will help to keep your car safe and prevent others from stealing it (which could result in additional costs such as new door locks and ignition). It is a good idea, if you have a spare car key to duplicate it in case you lose it again.
5. Contact a Locksmith
Many people forget where they placed their keys, particularly when they're stressed or distracted. Luckily, there are some actions you can take to assist.
Begin by retracing the steps you've taken and then searching for the locations in which you think they could have been left. If you're unable to find them, try searching inside the car. Many people have keys that are hanging on the keychain or inside the visor and it's worth taking a look.
Contact a locksmith to inquire whether they can locate your keys. They may be able make you a new key or even alter your locks if necessary. They also have the tools and expertise to remove bent or broken keys from locked doors.
Be prepared to provide proof of ownership whenever you call a locksmith. You can do this by using 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. Call Your Insurance Agent
It is possible to lose your car keys from time to time and it could ruin your day. It could be that you were running a quick errand and accidentally left keys on the floor or maybe you put your key down for a moment to grab something and lost track of it.
It's important to report lost key s as soon as you can to the police. This will create a paper record and prevent others from using your car without your permission. It also stops you from being penalized.
If you've reported your keys as lost to the police the homeowner's insurance might be able to cover them as they're personal property. But, it's advisable to check with your agent to ensure you're covered prior to filing a claim.
Consider investing in a Bluetooth tracking device, such as Apple AirTags or Tiles. This will eliminate the stress of having to replace your car keys and ensure that you always have your keys in reach.
7. Get a Bluetooth Key Tracker
It is possible to lose your keys at any time. You could be out for a quick errand and do not remember to put them on the seat, or you may be getting out of your car after an exhausting day at work and you can't remember where you put them.
There are ways to prevent 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 can be connected to an app on the phone. The app will flash or ring when you open it to help you locate your keys. These Bluetooth trackers have community features that allow other people to help you locate them in case your keys are not in reach.
You can also avoid losing your keys by placing them in the same spot every time you come home. It doesn't matter if you place them in a bowl on the table or hang them on a hook by the door. Making this routine a habit will help you locate your keys in the future.
8. Find a replacement key
Whether you've lost your car keys or they've been stolen the most important thing to do is to inform your insurance provider immediately. You can be certain that your claim will be taken care of if something happens to the car in the future.
If you have an ordinary (non-chip) key you can purchase a new one from any locksmith or hardware store. This is the quickest and cheapest solution.
For more modern cars with a smart key that requires an electronic fob, it might be a little more difficult. It is likely that you will need go to your local dealer and present proof of ownership to get a new key. Based on the make and model of your vehicle it could cost you upwards of $200.
To avoid this, you should keep an extra set of keys in a different place than your keys. It's also a good idea to get rid of clutter in your house or office especially in areas where you tend to lose things.