How to Locate replacing a lost car key wasn't so long ago that misplacing keys to your car was a simple task to perform. Now, things can be much more complicated and expensive.
Whether it's a traditional key or a more sophisticated car key fob, it's essential to report the loss as soon as possible. Here's how. It can stop someone from using the keys to steal your vehicle.
Retract Your Steps
It can be stressful and cause panic if you lose an item of importance, such as keys. However, there are ways to trace your steps and locate the object. You need to remember where you last saw the car last so that you can begin your search. Next, consider the next place you went after that.
If you own an GPS device, you can also make use of it to track the whereabouts of your key fob. But, this is only applicable if your car has an electronic component and doesn't have a traditional key.
Close your eyes and visualize the day you had trying to recall the last time you were able to see the keys. This can help uncover important clues about where you lost them.
Another method to retrace your steps is using a flashlight to search the area you believe they may be. This is particularly useful when your clothes are dark or you are parked in a shaded area. You may also ask the help of your friends and family members to help find your keys. They can provide a new pair of eyes to be able to spot things you missed.
If your coach's steps are always extended, even when the step switch has been turned off, attach an iron bar to the door sensor of the screen located on the door frame. This will notify the system that the screen door sensor is closed, and the steps will be retracted. This solution also works well for those who would like the steps to remain retracted when your coach is storage at the dealer.
Contact the Dealership
It can be a hassle to lose your keys. You could be forced to retrace your steps and looking for them in your office, home and many other places. It is likely that keys to your car are missing, and you'll need to contact someone for help. This can be done through either a locksmith or dealer. Depending on the situation and the type of key you have one of these options could be better than the other.
Generally speaking dealerships have the capacity to create replacement keys for the brand of vehicles they sell. They also have access to more details about the vehicle than a locksmith could have, including details on how the vehicle is secured. This makes them the best option for certain kinds of cars, especially if your keys are transponder-equipped or have other security features. It is essential to keep in mind that a dealership will be more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
Certain vehicles have a specific key called a smart key with an internal chip that communicates with the car's computer. This allows drivers to unlock and start their car without using the traditional key. If you lose this type of key, it's best to contact the dealer to get an alternative. They'll require proof of your identity and provide proof of ownership before they can produce the new key. The dealer will also have to connect the new chip with the car's system, which can take a couple of days.
It's a good idea keep an extra smart-key in your pocket. You might be able use it to get into your car even when you're not able to get to the dealership in time. Another option is to ask your insurance company if this type of loss is covered under your policy. If so, they can offer you a brand new vehicle and could be able to track the location of it. They can even provide a tow truck bring the vehicle back and return it to you.
Contact Your Insurance Company
The loss of car keys was not a big issue until recently. You may have kept a spare connected to your car in a little box or on your keychain, and if you lost the one you always had, you just went out and bought a new. But now, automobiles are more advanced and require more sophisticated keys that are more difficult to lose and much more expensive to replace, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. You may need to visit a dealer or locksmith depending on the year, make and model of your vehicle.
Generally locksmiths are the most affordable option for most people, and they are able to make a replacement key for you in just a few minutes. However, some prefer to contact their vehicle insurance company to find out if they have roadside assistance that can cover the cost of obtaining a new key.
Most automobile insurance policies do not cover lost or stolen keys. It's not common to find an add-on policy that covers stolen or lost keys to cars. Roadside assistance is a different option, but this usually only covers costs the event that you lock your keys in your vehicle, and does not cover the cost of replacing the key itself.
For electronic fobs, you'll have to head to the dealership to have a replacement key created. This involves pairing a chip with your car, so you'll require proof of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is an added expense that could cost you a couple hundred dollars or more, and it may take longer than working with a locksmith in your neighborhood.
Some homeowners' insurance policies cover garage door openers and dwelling keys, however, few car insurance companies offer this type of coverage. It's worth comparing rates with your provider if you have this coverage. It is essential to inform your insurance company you have lost the keys so they can check their records. They will then inform you if your vehicle is reported stolen.
Contact the Police
A few years ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car wasn't an issue. A locksmith could cut a new car key right on the spot. Now, cars are much more technologically advanced and keys can be quite expensive to replace.
You should first make a police report. This will enable them to find the person responsible, and it will also make it easier for your to prove that you keys were stolen. You'll have to provide basic information, including the model and make of your vehicle as well as your address and name. You may also have to provide proof that you own the vehicle like the V5C form with your name on it.
If you have a spare, you should try to find it. Sometimes, these are kept in accessible places, such as the back pocket of a jacket or the purse you carry to leave the house. You might want to ask to see if anyone has seen your spare, like your roommates or family members. Also, make sure to check public places like libraries and restaurants. You may find your keys in these locations, which are a repository of keys that people have found and returned.
You may also want to consult a professional auto locksmith, if you can afford it. They can reprogram the key without the original, and even disable the old one so that it cannot be used by someone else to steal your car. They may have to dismantle part of the ignition system to accomplish this but it's worth it if your car was stolen.
There's no way of knowing the exact time your car keys will be lost, but it's better to prepare for the worst. Follow these steps to lower the chance of being a victim. Also, be sure to keep a spare key handy at all times. You never know when a spare key could save your life. Emma is a blogger and car owner at CarsBlog, contributed this article.