How to Locate a Key Car Lost
In the past, misplacing (or losing) your car keys was a common occurrence. Today, the process can be much more costly and complicated.
It's crucial to report a lost key as soon as you can regardless of whether it's a vintage key or a modern key fob. Here's how. This will prevent anyone from stealing your car keys.
Retract your Steps
It can be stressful and cause panic when you lose things that are important, like keys. There are several options to find the item and follow your steps. The first thing to do is remember the last time you seen the car that was key, so you know where to begin your search. Next, consider the next place you went after that.
If you own a GPS device it is possible to make use of it to determine the whereabouts of your key fob. However, this only works in the event that your vehicle has an electronic component and does not have a traditional key.
Try to imagine your day, close your eyes and try to remember the last time you remember seeing the keys. This can help you identify important clues about where they are.
Another method to retrace your steps is to use a flashlight to look around the area in which you suspect they could be. This is particularly useful when your clothes are dark or you are parked in an area with shade. You can also seek the help of your friends and family members to help you locate your keys. They can give you a fresh pair of eyes and could discover things you not noticed.
If you're having difficulty with your coach steps staying 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 method is also helpful in the event that you want to keep the steps retracted when your vehicle is being stored at an agent.
Contact More Information and facts can be frustrating to lose your keys. You might need to go through the steps and looking for them in your office, home and in other places. You'll have 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 your particular situation and the kind of key you have one of these options could be more suitable than the other.
Generally speaking dealerships have the capacity to design keys that can be used to replace the brand of vehicles that they sell. They also have access to more details about the vehicle than a locksmith could, such as details about the way in which the vehicle is secured. They are the best option for certain vehicles, especially those keys that have security features like a transponder. It is important to remember that a dealership can be more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
Some cars come with an electronic smart key with a chip in it. This chip communicates directly with the computer in the car. This allows drivers to unlock and start the car without a traditional key. It's best to contact the dealership if you lose this key type. They'll have to verify your identity and have proof of ownership before they are able to make an original key. The dealer will also need to pair the new chip to the car's computer. This can take several days.
It's a good idea to keep an extra smart-key pocket. You might be able to use it to get into your vehicle in the event that you're unable to reach the dealership immediately. Another alternative is to inquire with your insurance company if this type of loss is covered under your policy. If so, they'll be able to provide you with an alternate and might be able track the location of your car. They can dispatch a tow truck in to recover your vehicle and return it.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a huge issue. You might have had a spare attached to your car in a small box or on your keychain and if you lost the one you always had, you simply went out and bought a new. Richard Reina is the training director at CARiD. He says that cars are more sophisticated today and require more sophisticated keys, which are more difficult to lose and more costly to replace. You may have to visit a dealer or a locksmith depending on the year, model and model of your car.
A locksmith will usually be the cheaper alternative. They can make a replacement key in just a few minutes. Some people, however, prefer to contact their car insurance company to find out whether they offer roadside assistance that can cover the cost of obtaining the new key.
Unfortunately, the majority of auto insurance policies do not cover stolen or lost car keys. While some may have add-on coverage that does however, it's not common. Roadside assistance can be another option. However, it usually only covers the costs for locking the keys in your vehicle and does not include the cost of replacing the key.
You'll need to go to the dealer to get a replacement key for electronic fobs. This process involves pairing a new chip with the vehicle, which means you'll have to provide proof of ownership, like your registration number or title. This is a cost that could potentially run you a few hundred dollars or more, and could take longer than working with a local locksmith.
Certain homeowner's insurance policies provide coverage for garage door openers and keys, however, few car insurance companies offer this option. It's worth comparing rates with your provider for this type of coverage. Regardless of what you choose to do, it's essential that you inform your insurer that the keys are lost, so that they can check their records and notify you in the event that the vehicle is ever reported as stolen.
Contact the Police
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to your car or loosing them was not a big issue. You could simply visit a locksmith and get a new key cut right there. The technology used in automobiles has advanced so much that keys can be costly to replace.
The first thing you need to do is to make a report to the police. This will assist them in tracking the culprit and make it easier for you to prove that your keys were taken. You'll need to provide basic information, such as the make and model of your vehicle, as well as your name and address. You may be required to show proof of ownership, for example a V5C form that has your name on it.
If you have a spare, you should try to find it. Sometimes, they are kept in places accessible to the public, such as the back pocket of a jacket or in the purse you use when you leave home. It is possible to ask around for anyone who has seen your spare, such as your roommates or family members. Also, you should look into public spaces like libraries and restaurants. These areas usually collect keys that have been found and then returned, and you might be lucky enough to find yours among them.
If you are able to afford it, you might also contact a specialist automotive lock. They are able to reprogram keys without the original and can even disable the original one so that no-one else has the ability to steal your vehicle. They may need to remove part of the ignition system in order to do this but it's worth it if your vehicle has been taken.
It's difficult to know when your car keys might be lost. However, it's better to prepare for the worst. Use these tips to minimize your chances of being a victim. Also, be sure to keep an extra key in your pocket at all times. You never know when it will save your life! Emma is a blogger and car owner at CarsBlog, contributed this article.