Why We Love Key Car Lost (And You Should Too!)
How to Locate a Key Car Lost
It wasn't so long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys was a common thing to do. Today, the process can be quite costly and complex.
Whether it's a traditional key or an advanced car key fob, it's essential to notify the loss as quickly as you can. Here's how. It will help prevent someone from using the keys to steal your car.
Retract your Steps
It can be stressful and create panic if you misplace things that are important, like keys. There are a few ways to locate the item and retrace your footsteps. The first thing to remember is where you last seen the car that was key, so you know where to begin your search. Then, think about the next steps you took from there.
You can also track your key fob by using an GPS device. But, this is only applicable if your car has an electronic component and doesn't have a traditional key.
Close your eyes and think about the day you had in the present, and then try to remember the last time you saw the keys. This can help you discover important clues to where they are.
Another great way to retrace your steps is using a flashlight to search the area you suspect they could be. This is especially useful if you have dark clothing or are parking in a shaded location. You can also seek the help of your friends and family members to help find your keys. They can offer a fresh pair of eyes to spot things you missed.
If your coach steps always extend, even when the step switch is turned off, attach a small magnet to the door sensor of the screen situated on the door frame. This will inform the system that the door is shut and keep the steps retracting. This method is also useful for those who want the steps to stay at a retracted position when your coach is in storage at the dealer.
Contact the Dealership
If you've lost your keys it can be a very stressful experience. It can be a long time to retrace your steps and searching your office, house, and other places where you may have lost keys. At some point, you'll have to accept that your car keys are gone and you'll need to call for help. You can do this by calling an auto dealer or locksmith. Depending on your situation and the type of key you have either of these options could be more suitable than the other.
Generally speaking, car dealerships are equipped to make replacement keys for the brands of vehicles that they sell. They can provide more information about the car than a locksmith and can provide more details regarding the vehicle's security. They are the best option for certain vehicles, especially when your keys come with security features such as transponders. It is important to remember that a dealership can be more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
Some cars come with a smart key with an embedded chip. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/replace-lost-car-keys-near-me/ can communicate directly with the computer of the car. This can allow drivers to open and start the car without using a traditional key. If you lose this type of key, it's recommended to contact the dealership to request an alternative. Before they can make a new key, they'll need proof of ownership and identity to verify. The dealer will also need to pair the new chip with the car's computer. This can take several days.
A good idea is to have an extra smart key in your purse, as you might be able to get into the car using it when you're unable to go to the dealership right away. Check with your insurance provider to determine if this kind of loss can be covered under your policy. If so it is, they'll provide you with a replacement and may even be able to track the location of your vehicle. They could even dispatch a tow truck to take the vehicle away and return it to you.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Losing your car keys was not a major problem until recently. You may have kept a spare connected to your car in a small box or kept it on your keychain and when you lost the one you always had, you simply bought another. Richard Reina is the training director at CARiD. He claims that cars are more advanced today and require more sophisticated keys that are more difficult to lose and more costly to replace. You might need to visit a dealer or a locksmith depending on the year, make and model of your car.
Locksmiths are usually the most affordable alternative. They can make an replacement key within a matter of minutes. Some people decide to contact their insurance company to find out whether roadside assistance can cover the cost of a new key.
Unfortunately, most auto insurance policies do not cover lost or stolen keys to cars. It's rare to find an add-on policy that covers lost or stolen car keys. Roadside assistance is another option. However, it generally only covers the cost for locking the keys inside your vehicle. It does not cover the cost to replace the key.
For electronic fobs, you'll have to visit a dealer to have a new key created. This process involves affixing the new chip with your vehicle, and you'll need to show evidence of ownership, such as your car registration or title. This is an added expense which could cost you a couple hundred dollars or more, and it may take longer than working with a locksmith in your neighborhood.
Certain homeowner insurance policies offer additional coverage for keys to the house and garage door openers however, not all car insurance companies offer this feature in their policies. It's worth comparing rates with your provider for this type of coverage. Regardless of what you choose to do, it's important to inform your insurance company that the keys are lost to verify their records and inform you in case the vehicle is ever reported as stolen.
Contact the Police
Not long ago the loss or misplacement of your car keys wasn't an issue. Locksmiths could cut a new key on the spot. The technology in cars has advanced to the point that keys can be expensive to replace.
It is recommended to first make a police report. This will assist in tracking the perpetrator and help you to prove that your keys were stolen. You will need to provide basic information like your car's model and model, your name and your address. You may also need to provide proof that you own the vehicle like the V5C form with your name on it.
Find a spare, if you have one. Sometimes, they are stored in easy-to-access places like the back pocket of a jacket or the purse you carry around when you leave home. You may want to inquire about anyone who has seen your spare, for instance your roommates or family members. You should also check in public places, such as libraries and restaurants. You might find your key in these locations, which collect keys that people have found and returned.
If you are able to afford it you may also try contacting a specialist automotive lock. They can modify the key without the original one, and even disable the old one to ensure that it can't be used by anyone else to steal your vehicle. It may be necessary to remove a part of the ignition in order to accomplish this. However, it's worth it if had your vehicle stolen.
There's no way to know when your car keys might be lost, but it's better to prepare for the worst. Follow these guidelines to reduce the chance of becoming a victim of crime. Also keep a spare vehicle key with you at all times. You never know when it will save your life! Emma is a blogger and car owner at CarsBlog, contributed this article.