How to Recover a Lost Car Key
Losing your car key can be a very stressful experience. But, it is important to remain calm and remember that losing your keys does not need to be a big deal.
Modern key fobs are also smarter than traditional keys that only opened doors and switched on the ignition. It is important to be aware of what to do if you lose your keys so that you don't have to shell out a large amount for replacement.
Retract your steps
A lost car key could be a nightmare for anyone who drives. Fortunately, there are many ways you can recover your keys.
The first thing you need to do is to retrace your steps. This simple trick can be very useful in locating keys that have been lost. You might have dropped them in a hurry and forgotten about them. Retracing your steps will help you remember where you were when you last saw them. It's also a good idea to check any places you've been to recently even if they're not places where you typically store your keys. It's possible that your keys have fallen out of a bag or pocket and are hidden somewhere you wouldn't expect.
Another great way to find keys that are lost is using a tracker. The device is small, and it is attached to the keys. Then you can make use of an app to locate them. This is only possible if your keys are equipped with an electronic component, such as remote key fobs.
If you don't have a tracker or aren't able to locate your keys, the next course of action is to call a local automotive locksmith. They can assist you in creating an entirely new key and then reprogram it to the anti-theft system in your vehicle. However this service is usually expensive and could cost a few hundred dollars.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you might have to get towed to the dealer to get your keys replaced. It's a good idea to keep a spare set keys in your car, and to take preventative measures to ensure you don't lose your keys in the first instance.
If you lose your keys The most important thing is to stay calm. When you can't find your keys, it's easy to panic. But if you start screaming at yourself, it will make it much more difficult to find them. If you've not found your keys within some time, it might be time to call a locksmith or head to the dealership. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to inform your insurance company that you're insured so they can assist if something happens to your vehicle in the future.
Check Your Hiding Spots
If you are planning to keep your spare keys hidden, it's important to choose an area that isn't easily visible for people passing by. If you don't, you're creating an easy target for thieves. Many people store their extra keys in plants or in a flower pot however this is a mistake. If a burglar gets your keys, they may also discover your wallet and other valuables.
Another common hiding spot is behind the door, but it can be difficult to gain access to when you're locked out. Locks that resemble normal locks and fit to the door's interior are available, but they can be quite expensive. A less expensive option is to hide the key in a door mat, or in the grass. Some people also make fake rocks that appear ordinary but have a hidden compartment for the key.
It is not unusual to store keys in the car. However, this could be risky. Thieves are aware of this tactic and could be able to open the gas cap by removing it from the outside. If you're concerned about this, purchase an magnetic key holder to be able to attach to the underside of your vehicle. It resembles the frame of a license plate, but is designed to hold the spare key in a concealed, hidden location.
Garages are another great location to hide the key, particularly if you have a detached garage. If you do not have a ladder, a key placed in a small space in the side of your garage is out of view.
Vinyl siding can also be an ideal place to hide since there are often tiny gaps where you can slide the key. Make sure you tie a piece of clear fishing line to the key, and then slide it into the wall until only a tiny bit is showing. This will prevent the key from slipping out in case you accidentally hit it while looking for it.
If you have lots of trees on your property, you may also try nailing your spare key to the top of a branch. If you live in an area with lots of trees this is a great alternative. Most people won't even think to look here for your keys.
Try turning the car on
Not long ago the loss of your car keys was no big problem. You could contact an locksmith to help out and it was usually only $20 or so. However, today, cars are getting more and more technologically advanced, which could make them more expensive to replace if you do lose one.
To start the engine in a modern car there is a computer chip that communicates with the vehicle's ECU. The car will not start without this chip. This is why it's important to make sure you have the proper key for your vehicle.
You may be able start your car using an older, traditional style key. If this isn't working, it could be time to call an locksmith or your auto dealership to have a new key made.
You can also try to start the car with an extra key. Many new manual vehicles have spare keys, so this may be your best bet. This option is more risky and will depend on the car, but it might be successful.
This technique requires some technical expertise and tools. click the following post involves removing an engine component and isn't advisable for all. It is better to have a professional handle the task of this kind of work as you'll bypass a lot of the safety features in the car.
It's always an excellent idea to have a spare car key in case you lose one. You can purchase an old-fashioned key, but the smart key or transponder is also available. They are more expensive to replace and require a trip to the dealer for a new key that's connected electronically to your vehicle.
Walk Back Through Your Day
It's been seen by everyone The car keys. It's the most annoying thing you can do because it can cause you to lose your day. You're going be late for work, and your errands won't get done. You may even be required to replace the key fob in case you rent a vehicle. It doesn't have to be this way. Follow these simple steps to prevent losing your keys and ruining your day.
First of all, don't panic. Breathing deeply can help you calm down and focus your thoughts. You can also note your location so that you can go back to find out where you left your keys.
If you aren't able to remember where you put them down, start by retracing your day. If you lost them while you were out running errands, return to each stop and think about what you were doing. Did you place them on the counter? You might have knocked them loose after you took something from your bag. Try to remember exactly the last time you saw them.
You should also look elsewhere. You might have tucked them away in a pocket of your jacket or a bag you carried with you. Be sure to check places you'd never think of, such as pockets in other people's clothing or beneath a sofa cushion.
If you can't find your car keys, contact someone to help. Ask your friends if they have seen them, or better yet contact a locksmith. The one thing you do not want to do is paying for a replacement key, or more traumatically, having your car stolen. An expert can help you return your keys quickly and efficiently. It's also an excellent idea to keep a spare car key, therefore, make sure you keep it in a safe place.