How to Locate a Key Car Lost
Not too long ago finding (or losing) keys to your car was a simple affair. Now, things can be more complicated and costly.
It's important to report a lost key immediately regardless of whether it's an older key or a modern key fob. Here's how. It will help prevent someone from using the keys to steal your vehicle.
Retract your Steps
It can be stressful and even cause panic if you lose things that are important, like keys. There are several options to find the item and retrace your footsteps. You need to remember where you last saw the car last, so that you can begin your search. Then think about what you did from there.
If you own a GPS device, you can also make use of it to track the whereabouts of your key fob. However, this only works if your car has an electronic component and doesn't have an ordinary key.
Try to visualize your day Close your eyes and try to recall the last time you remember seeing the keys. This can help to stir up important clues about the location where they went missing.
A flashlight is a great method to locate your lost belongings. Use replacing lost car keys to search the area you suspect they may be located in. This is particularly helpful if you have dark clothing or are parked in a shaded spot. You can also ask your friends and family members to help locate your keys. They will be able to provide a fresh set of eyes and may see things you have missed.
If your coach steps are always extended, even when the step switch is turned off, attach a small bar of magnet to the door sensor of the screen that is located on the door frame. This will notify the system that the door is closed and will keep the steps in a retracted position. This method is also useful if you would like the steps to remain retracted while your coach is in storage at the dealer.
Call the Dealership
It can be frustrating to lose your keys. You might need to go through the steps and searching for them in your office, home and in other places. Eventually, you have to accept the fact that the keys to your car are gone and that you'll need to call for help. This can be done through an auto dealer or a locksmith. Based on the circumstances and the type of key, one of these two options might be better than the other.
Generally speaking, car dealerships are equipped to create replacement keys for the brands of vehicles that they sell. They also have access to more information about the vehicle than a locksmith could have, including details on how the vehicle is secured. They are the best option for certain cars, especially when your keys come with security features such as transponders. However it is crucial to remember that a dealership will likely be more expensive than locksmiths.
Certain cars have a smart key with an embedded chip. The chip is directly connected with the computer in the car. This allows drivers to open and start the car without having a traditional key. It's best to contact the dealer if you lose this key type. They'll need to verify your identity and have proof of ownership before they are able to create an original key. The dealer will also need to pair the new chip with the car's computer. This could take several days.
A good idea is to keep an extra smart key in your pocket since you may be able to enter the car using it if you can't get into the dealership right away. Contact your insurance company to find out if this type of loss will be covered under your policy. If it is, they will provide you with a new vehicle and could be able to track the location of it. They may even dispatch a tow truck to take the vehicle away and return it to you.
Contact Your Insurance Company
The loss of your car keys was not a huge issue until recently. You might have had a spare attached to your car in a small box or on your keychain and in the event that you lost the key you always had, you just bought another. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and they require more sophisticated keys that are easier to lose and much more costly to replace, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Depending on the model and model of your vehicle you might need go to a dealership or a locksmith in order to make the new key.
A locksmith will usually be the most affordable alternative. They can create an replacement key in just a few minutes. Some people prefer to contact their insurance provider to inquire if roadside assistance will cover the cost of a new key.
Unfortunately, the majority of standard auto insurance policies don't cover stolen or lost keys to cars. While some may offer add-on coverage that does however, it's not common. Roadside assistance can be another option. However, it generally only covers the cost for locking the keys in your vehicle, and doesn't cover the cost to replace the key.
You'll need to visit the dealer to purchase a replacement key for electronic fobs. replacing lost car keys requires connecting a chip to the vehicle, and you'll be required to prove ownership for example, your registration or title. This is a cost which could cost you a couple hundred dollars or more, and it may take longer than working with an experienced locksmith in your area.
Certain homeowner insurance policies offer additional coverage for keys to the house and garage door openers, however, not all car insurance companies include this option in their policies. It is worth comparing rates with your insurance 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 stolen.
Contact the Police
In the past the loss or misplacement of your car keys was not a big deal. A locksmith could cut a new car key right on the spot. The technology in cars has advanced so much that keys can be expensive to replace.
The first thing you need to do is submit a police report to the police. This will assist in tracking down the thief and also help you to prove that your keys were taken. You'll need to provide some basic information, such as the make and model of your car and your address and name. You may also need to provide proof that you own the vehicle like the V5C form with your name on it.
If you have a spare, try to locate it. Sometimes, these are kept in places that are easy to access, such as the back pocket of a jacket, or the purse you carry around when you leave home. You might ask around to find whether anyone has seen it, like your roommates or relatives. You should also look in public places like libraries and restaurants. You might find your key in these places, which collect keys that people have discovered and returned.
If you have the money you could also consider contacting an expert in automotive locks. They can modify the key without the original one, and even disable the older one to ensure that it can't 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 do this however it will be worth it if your vehicle has been stolen.
There's no way of knowing when your car keys will be lost, but it's better to prepare for the worst. Use these tips to lower your chances of becoming a victim of crime. Also keep a spare car key on you at all times. You never know when it could save your life! This article was written by Emma who is a car owner and blogger at CarsBlog.