How to Locate a Key Car Lost
In the past, losing (or losing) your car keys was a common occurrence. Today, the process can be quite costly and complex.
Whether it's a traditional key or a more advanced car key fob, it's essential to notify the loss as quickly as you can. Here's how. This will stop anyone from getting your car keys.
Retract Your Steps
It can be stressful and create panic if you misplace an item of importance, such as keys. Fortunately, there are some methods to trace your steps to find the object. The first thing to remember is the last time you saw the key car to know where to begin your search. Then think about what you did from there.
If you have an GPS device you can also make use of it to track the whereabouts of your key fob. This only works if you are using an electronic key and not a traditional key.
Try to imagine your day close your eyes and try to recall the last time you recall seeing the keys. This can help to stir up important clues about where you lost them.
A flashlight is a great method to locate your lost items. Use it to look for the area you suspect they might be located in. This is especially helpful when your clothes are dark or you're parking in a shaded area. You can also ask friends and family members to help locate your keys. They can provide a new perspective that could find things you didn't.
If you're having trouble getting your coach steps to stay extended (even when the step switch is OFF) take a small bar magnet and attach it to the screen door sensor on the door frame. This will signal to the system that the screen door sensor is closed, and the steps will be reduced. This solution also works well if you want the steps to remain retracted when your coach is in storage at a dealer.
Call the Dealership
It can be a hassle to lose your keys. It can be a long time to retrace your steps, searching your office, house or other places you might have left them. You'll need to accept that your car keys are missing and you will need to call someone to assist you. This can be done through an auto dealer or a locksmith. Based on the circumstances and type of key, one of these choices may be superior to the other.
In general, car dealers can create replacement keys for the cars they sell. They also have access to more information about the vehicle than a locksmith would, such as details about the way in which the vehicle is secured. They are the best option for certain vehicles, particularly when your keys come with security features such as transponders. However, it is important to remember that a dealership is likely to be more expensive than locksmiths.
Certain vehicles have a specific key, referred to as a smart key that has an internal chip that communicates with the car's computer. This allows drivers to unlock and start the car without using a traditional key. It's best to contact the dealer in the event that you lose this key type. They'll have to verify your identity and provide proof of ownership before they can create the new key. The dealer will also have to pair the new chip to the car's computer, which can take a few days.
It's a good idea to keep an extra smart-key pocket. You might be able make use of it to enter your vehicle in the event that you're unable to reach the dealership immediately. Another good option is to inquire with your insurance company if this kind of loss is covered under your policy. If so, they can provide you with a replacement vehicle and trace the location of it. They could even provide a tow truck take the vehicle away and return it to you.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Not too long ago when you lost your car keys, it wasn't a big deal. You may have kept a spare connected to your car in a small box or kept it on the keychain, and if you lost the one you always had, you simply went out and bought a new. But now, cars are more advanced and require more sophisticated keys that are more difficult to lose and more costly to replace, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. You might need to visit a dealer or a locksmith based on the year, model and model of your vehicle.
A locksmith will usually be the cheapest alternative. They can make keys replacements in just a few minutes. However, some prefer to contact their car insurance company and see whether they offer roadside assistance that can cover the cost of obtaining a new key.
The majority of standard auto insurance policies don't cover keys stolen or lost. It is rare to find an add-on policy that covers stolen or lost keys to cars. Roadside assistance is a second option, but it typically only covers costs if you lock your keys in your vehicle, and does not cover the cost of replacing the key itself.
You'll have to visit the dealer to purchase a replacement key for electronic fobs. This involves pairing a chip with the car, so you'll be required to prove ownership like your registration or title. This could cost you several hundred dollars, and may take longer than hiring the local locksmith.
Certain homeowner's insurance policies cover garage door openers as well as dwelling keys, but few car insurance companies offer this option. It's worth comparing rates with your provider if you have this coverage. Regardless of what you choose to do, it's important that you inform your insurer that the keys are lost so that they can verify their records and inform you in the event that the vehicle is ever reported as stolen.
Contact the Police
It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to your car or loosing them was not a big issue. Locksmiths could cut a new key right on the spot. Today, cars are more technologically advanced, and keys can be expensive to replace.
The first thing you must do is to file a report with the police. This will assist in tracking the perpetrator and help you to prove that your keys were taken. You'll need to provide basic information such as your car's make and model as well as your name and address. You may also need to show proof of ownership, for example a V5C form that has your name on it.
If you have a spare, try to locate it. Sometimes, they are kept in places that are easy to access, such as the back pocket of a jacket, or the purse you use when you leave home. You can ask around to determine whether anyone has seen it, like your roommates or family members. You should also look in public spaces, like libraries and restaurants. You may find your keys in these locations, which keep keys that have been discovered and returned.
If you can afford it you may also try contacting a specialist automotive lock. They can modify the key without the original key, and can even disable the older one so that it cannot be used by any other person to steal your car. It is possible that they will need to take down part of the ignition system to accomplish this however it will be worth it if your car has been taken.
It's impossible to know when your car keys might be lost. However, it's better to prepare for the worst. Use these tips to lower your chance of becoming a victim. Also keep a spare vehicle key with you at all times. lost car key know when it might save your life! Emma, blogger and owner of a car at CarsBlog contributed to this article.