What to do when you’ve lost your car keys
What to do when you’ve lost your car keys
If you’re like most people, losing your car keys can feel like a real crisis. But don’t panic – you’re not alone. In fact, losing your car keys is one of the most common problems drivers face. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do to find them.
In this post, we’ll outline a few tips on how to track down your missing car keys and how to avoid this happening again in the future. So read on for helpful advice on how to get back behind the wheel!
Check your pockets
Before you start to lose your cool, take a quick look in your pockets – you might be surprised to find that they’re right there. More often than not, we misplace things like our keys by leaving them in our pockets. So next time you can’t find your keys, save yourself some time and trouble by checking your pockets first.
Retrace your steps
Have you ever lost something and couldn’t find it no matter how many times you retraced your steps? It’s the worst. You look everywhere and feel like you’re going crazy. But usually, the thing you’re looking for is right in front of your face. The same goes for car keys. If you’re trying to find car keys, the best thing to do is retrace your steps. Chances are, you left them somewhere along the way. So, go back to the last place you remember having them and take a look around. More often than not, you’ll find what you’re looking for.
Check your car
Before you start tearing your house apart, take a deep breath and check your car. It’s not uncommon for keys to fall between the seats, under the seat or get lost in the crevice of the armrest. Especially when you’re busy and in a rush. In older model cars, sometimes people even leave the key in the door lock or in the ignition. Don’t discount such an obvious location like this.
Lost key finder service
If you already have an electronic lost key finder service or app. Get it going and see where they are. If you’ve lost them somewhere other than your house or office, this is an invaluable resource. Of course, it can still be unhelpful if it points to your home, but you still can’t find them. The best locating devices also emit a sound.
Ask family and friends
This may seem far too obvious, but always check with family or friends to see if anyone has seen your car keys. It’s possible someone used them, or moved them in the process of cleaning, and they can point you in the right direction.
Call a locksmith
If you’ve exhausted all options, it’s time to call off the search and call a locksmith. A locksmith will come to your location and make a new key for your car. They will also be able to program the key so that it works with your car’s ignition. In addition, a locksmith can also help if you’ve locked your keys inside your car. They will be able to unlock the door without damaging the lock. So, after much fruitless searching if you still can’t find your car keys – just call a locksmith. It’s not a big deal.
Buy a new set of car keys
Depending on your make and model of car, you may be able to get a new key from the dealership. However, this can be expensive – a better option may be to go to a local locksmith. They will be able to cut you a new key quickly and at a fraction of the cost. It’s also important to remember they key is likely to require programming to connect with your cars’ engine immobilizer.
Tips to avoid this happening in the future
We are all well aware that losing your car keys can be a frustrating experience. Fortunately, there are a few easy things you can do an habits you can get into to avoid losing them in the future.
Have a designated place
Keep your keys in the same spot – preferably near the door. Start to build this routine of always placing your keys in the same place when you get home. This could be a designated spot in the house, like a key bowl, your purse or backpack. Be careful about using obvious key hooks as this is a known method for thieves to steal cars. Having a designated place doesn’t eliminate all risk of lost keys, but it’s very helpful.
Use a key finder
Consider purchasing a key finder for your car keys. A key finder can help prevent this frustrating scenario of lost keys. Simply attach the small device to your keys and then use the corresponding app to locate them if they ever go missing. You can also use the app to set up alerts so that you’ll know if you’re leaving your keys behind. There are many different brands available now, and they’re not expensive. Some emit a sound or a light, while others connect you to a map on an app. If your keys are truly lost, you can remotely activate a loud sound on the key finder so that you can easily find them.
Have a spare set
Finally, prevent this from happening by getting a spare set of car keys made. That way, if you ever do lose your primary set of keys, you’ll have a spare to fall back on. You can either keep the spare set at home or with a friend or family member who lives nearby. That way, if you’re ever in a bind, you’ll be able to get your hands on a set of keys without having to worry about replacement costs. This is also helpful in an emergency, for example you lock yourself out of the car. A locksmith will have the tools and skills necessary to create duplicate keys quickly and easily. In most cases, all you need to do is provide the locksmith with your car’s make and model, and they will be able to cut you a new key in no time. Keyless entry remotes use a rolling code that changes with each use, so it is not possible to copy the remote. However, the locksmith can program a new remote for you if you have lost your old one. This service is generally very affordable and it’s possible to duplicate car keys for a wide variety of car types.
Where there’s a will, there’s a way
Losing your car keys is certainly not the end of the world. Try our simple steps to locate your car keys and make sure you don’t lose them again in the future. And if all else fails, an affordable locksmith is always on call to help get you back into your car and on your way. Don’t stress, we’ve got you covered, and good luck!
FAQs
Are key finders safe to use?
Key finders are devices that can help you locate lost keys. They typically work by emitting a loud sound or flashing a bright light when you press a button on the device. Key finders can be particularly useful for finding keys that have been misplaced in a large area, such as a park or beach. However, some people worry that key finders may not be safe to use, as they could potentially attract thieves to your location. Additionally, if the key finder is not properly secured to your key ring, it could be possible for someone to detach the device and use it to locate your keys.
While key finders are generally considered safe to use, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the device you’re using is compatible with your car’s keyless entry system. Second, be sure to keep the transmitter and receiver out of reach of children and pets. Finally, if you’re using a key finder with a GPS system, be aware that your location could be tracked.
Overall, key finders can be a helpful tool for finding lost keys, but it is important to exercise caution when using them.
Can a locksmith duplicate a key without the original?
Any competent locksmith should be able to duplicate a key without the need for the original. However, it is worth bearing in mind that keys for luxury model cars or more intricate keys may be more difficult to copy. In such cases, it may be necessary to take the lock to a specialist locksmith who has the experience and equipment to deal with more complex keys. Nonetheless, as long as you find a reputable and experienced locksmith, you should have no problem getting a duplicate key made without the original.
How do I know what type of car key I have?
There are two main types of car keys – transponder car keys and traditional car keys. Transponder car keys have a chip that sends a signal to the car’s ignition, while traditional car keys do not. You can usually tell which type of key you have by looking at it. Transponder car keys are typically larger and heavier than traditional keys, and they often have a plastic head with a small antenna. Essentially, if your key has a button on it that unlocks your doors, then it is likely a transponder key. If your key does not have this button, then it is probably a traditional key.
If you’re not sure which type of key you have, you can always ask your local dealership or locksmith. They will be able to help you identify the key and determine if it needs to be replaced.
How do I find the make and model number of my car?
If you request a car key replacement from an automotive professional you’ll be asked for the make and model number of your car.
Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to find this information. The first place to check is your car’s registration papers. The make and model of your car should be listed on the document. If you can’t find your registration papers, or if you’re not sure if the information on them is correct, you can also look for the make and model of your car on the VIN (vehicle identification number) plate. This plate is usually located on the dashboard, near the windshield. If you still can’t find the make and model of your car, you can always consult a dealer or automotive locksmith.
What does it cost to make a new car key?
If you lose your car keys, the cost of replacement will depend on a few factors. First, the type of key you have will affect the price. Standard metal keys can generally be replaced for around $50, while transponder keys may cost closer to $200. Additionally, the make and model of your car will also play a role in the price. Some cars require special equipment in order to cut new keys, which could increase the cost.
Finally, if you have a keyless entry system, you’ll need to have the system reprogrammed in order to use a new key, which could add an additional cost. Ultimately, the best way to get an accurate estimate of replacement key cost is to consult a professional locksmith or dealer.
I have electronic car keys, is that a problem?
Key fobs can malfunction in many ways. Many people believe that it is more difficult to replace electronic car keys, key fobs or smart keys than it is to replace traditional keys. However, this is not necessarily the case. In fact, the process of replacing electronic keys is often simpler and faster than replacing traditional keys. One reason for this is that electronic keys can be easily programmed by a locksmith or dealer. Additionally, many dealerships and locksmiths now keep replacement electronic keys in stock, so they can be quickly and easily replaced if lost or stolen.
However, you’ll need to find a locksmith or dealer who can program a new key for your car. This can be tricky, as not all locksmiths are qualified to work with electronic keys. Once you’ve found a qualified locksmith or dealer, be aware that replacements for these types of high security keys are significantly more expensive. In some cases, the fee can be as high as $500.
As a result, it is not necessarily true that getting electronic car keys replaced is more difficult than getting traditional keys replaced. But it can certainly be more expensive.
