How to Find a Lost Key Car
Car keys are one of the most easy things to lose. If you don't have a spare key, this can be a major problem.
The good news is that the majority of lost keys can be replaced fairly inexpensively. However, it's best to start the search as soon as you can. Make sure you follow your steps, conduct a thorough search, and keep cool.
Retract your Steps
If you've ever lost your car keys you're aware that it can be a stressful situation. next is a common occurrence, whether you were running errands in the car and forgot them or lost them while rushing out the door. There are a few steps you can take to find your lost keys.
First take care to remain calm. Panicking won't help you locate your keys faster and will only make the situation worse. Think about the last time you held them in your hands or the last time they were seen. You can also search the area where you think you found your keys by looking on the ground, in bushes, or under mats on the floor.
You can also write down the places you went to throughout the day, in case you forget. If you don't have an eraser and a piece of paper, you can walk around the area you've been to throughout the day and examine all pockets on your bags, clothes, and other belongings.
If you have a spare key, it's time to make use of that. This will save you a lot of frustration and anxiety in the short run and save you from needing to call an auto locksmith or a dealership to request a new key.
If you don't own an extra key, it is time to call the police station in your area and ask about any keys that have been reported lost or discovered in the area. Sometimes, people give in their car keys that they lost and are waiting to be taken care of by the right person. This is a great idea, especially if you are driving an older model car that might not have a built-in tracking system like many of the modern vehicles on the market today. A professional locksmith will replace your keys quickly and efficiently providing you with peace of assurance.
Call Your Insurance Company
It's true that losing your keys can be quite annoying. It's not just an immense hassle however, it also costs you money. Many insurance companies provide a car key protection policy, which can help you save money on replacing keys that have been lost. Make sure to check your policy prior to making an insurance claim to ensure that your keys that are lost will be covered.
If you don't keep an extra spare, it might be a challenge to replace your lost car key. Fortunately, a locksmith or a car dealer can create duplicate keys for you provided they have your car's key code or VIN number. This service is usually for free in the event that you have roadside assistance.
Relax, and calm yourself down in case you're unable to locate your car keys. Being anxious will only make you more frustrated, and it won't help you find them any quicker. After you've settled down and regained calm, go through your pockets and other obvious places such as the laptop bag or purse that you were carrying. Also, you should check places you would not normally think of, like your home's flooring or inside your shoes.
Modern cars are stocked with smart keys, which emit an electronic signal when they're within the range of the vehicle's immobilizer system. They can only be replaced by a locksmith or dealership and are very expensive. If you're worried about the cost of a new key consider getting a traditional key instead. These keys don't need a fancy chip, and can be duplicated by a locksmith.
The process of filing a claim for car insurance for a lost key can be a bit complicated, and the process will take time. Furthermore, you will have to pay a deductible, which can be more expensive than the cost of replacing the key. It's not worth it to file an insurance claim when you lose your car key. However, it's still worthwhile to check your insurance company's policies and optional riders to see whether they provide insurance for keys lost by a car.
Call Your Dealership
If you own an automobile with a smart key, or one that uses a transponder to unlock your doors or start the engine, you'll need contact your dealer for an replacement. The keys emit an unique electronic code that the vehicle is able to recognize, allowing it to communicate with the chip inside to unlock doors or start the engine. You will need to present proof of ownership at the dealership to replace your lost smart key.
The biggest drawback of calling the dealership is the lengthy process. Dealerships have to be able deal with thousands of customers every day. It's likely that you'll be left off the list unless you need urgent appointments or else. The other issue is that the dealership will charge you a premium to replace your key. Your budget and preferences will determine if this is worth it.
Another option is to go to a locksmith. Local locksmiths are more efficient as they can usually talk directly to them. This can save you any unnecessary wait time and difficulties. In addition many auto locksmiths are available at all hours of the day and will go out of their way to assist you when the dealership isn't open.
The main advantage of using locksmiths is that they can make a traditional key for your vehicle on the spot. This is a great alternative to going to the dealership, especially if are in a hurry and need to get to someplace. The main disadvantage of using a locksmith that they won't be able to replace your smart key. If you're looking for the best solution, think about calling both an auto dealer and a locksmith to find out what options you have. In the end, it will depend on what you are most satisfied with in your experience with the service.
Call a locksmith
It is common for people to lose their keys to their car. They are small and light, and can fit into any pocket. However, they are easy to lose if you do not know where to search. It is crucial to act quickly if you have lost your car keys. If you have a spare, you can try it first. If not, you'll have to call a locksmith.
Even if it isn't possible to have the original, a good NYC locksmith can design a new car key. It may take a little longer than going to the dealer, but you'll probably pay less. If you do decide to visit the dealership, be sure you bring evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
Before you call a locksmith, be sure you check every place where you might have placed it. You may have put it in the cupholder or under the seat. You may have dropped it and forgotten about it.
If you can't find your keys anywhere, get in touch with your insurance company immediately. In order to avoid a rejection of your claim, inform them in writing.
Certain companies, such as AAA can be in a position to assist you in finding your lost key car for a cost. However they're only able to provide a limited amount of assistance. If you've lost a key, they can only create a replacement at the dealership.
A locksmith could be an alternative that is much less expensive to dealerships. You'll need the vehicle's model, make year, and documents proving ownership, such as the title or registration to complete the process. If your key fob has been lost, be prepared to wait for a couple of days before having it reset. The key fob transmits an electronic code that is readable by your car. If it gets lost, it will be impossible to start the car.