How to Locate a Key Car Lost
A few years ago, losing (or losing) keys to your car was a simple affair. Today, the process can be much more expensive and complicated.
It is crucial to report a lost key immediately, whether it's an older key or a newer fob. Here's how. This will stop anyone from stealing your car keys.
Retract Your Steps
If you lose something that is important such as your keys or your wallet, it can be very stressful and even panic-inducing. However, there are methods to trace your steps to find the object. You need to remember where you last saw the car in the last time so that you can start your search. Then think about what you did from there.
If you own an GPS device it is possible to use it to track the whereabouts of your key fob. This is only applicable if you are using an electronic key and not a traditional one.
Try to visualize 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 great way to retrace your steps is using a flashlight to scour the area where you suspect they could be. This is particularly helpful when your clothes are dark or you're parking in an area with shade. You can also seek the help of friends and family members to help locate your keys. They will be able to give you a fresh pair of eyes and could be able to see things you've not noticed.
If you're having issues with your coach's steps remaining extended (even when the step switch is OFF) then you should purchase a small bar magnet and attach it to the screen door sensor on the door frame. This will signal to the system that the sensor on the screen is closed, and the steps will be retractable. This is also a good option when you want the steps to stay retracted when your coach is storage at a dealer.
Call the Dealership
If you've lost your keys it can be a very difficult experience. You could spend hours retracing your steps, searching your office, house, and other places where you might have left them. Eventually, you have to accept the fact that your car keys are gone and you'll have to call for help. This can be done either through an auto dealer or a locksmith. Depending on your situation and the type of key you own one of these options may be better than the other.
Generally speaking, car dealerships are equipped to create keys that can be used to replace the brand of vehicles they sell. They also have access to more details about the vehicle than a locksmith could provide, such as information about how the vehicle is secured. They are the best choice for certain cars, especially when your keys come with security features, such as transponders. However it is important to keep in mind that a dealership will likely be more expensive than locksmiths.
Certain cars come with a smart key that has an embedded chip. The chip is directly connected with the computer inside the car. This can allow drivers to open and start the car without a traditional key. If you lose this type of key, you'll need to call the dealership for the replacement. Before they can create a new key, they'll need proof of ownership and your identity to verify. The dealer will also need to pair the new chip to the car's computer. This could take several days.
It's a good idea to keep a spare smart-key in your pocket. You might be able to use it to get into your vehicle even if you are unable to make it to the dealership right away. Contact your insurance company to find out if this type of loss will be covered under your policy. If so, they can offer you a brand new car and may be able locate the vehicle. They can send a tow-truck for your vehicle to be recovered and return it.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a huge issue. You might have kept a spare key attached to your car in a small box or kept it on your keychain, and when you lost the one you always had, you just went and got another. Richard Reina is the training director at CARiD. He says that cars are more advanced today and require more sophisticated keys, which are harder to lose and more expensive to replace. Based on the make and model, as well as the year of your car you may need go to a dealership or a locksmith to make a new key.
In general locksmiths are the cheaper option for most people, and they can make a replacement key for you within a few minutes. Some people choose to call their insurance company to inquire whether roadside assistance is covered by the cost of a replacement key.
The majority of standard automobile insurance policies do not cover lost or stolen keys. It's not common to find an additional policy that covers stolen or lost keys to cars. Roadside assistance can be another option. However, it usually only covers the cost if you lock the keys to your vehicle and does not include the cost of replacing the key.
You'll need to go to the dealer to obtain an electronic replacement key fobs. This involves connecting a chip to the car, so you will require proof of ownership like your registration or title. This is an additional cost that could cost you a few hundred dollars or more, and it may take longer than working with a local locksmith.
Some homeowners' insurance policies cover garage door openers and dwelling keys, but only a few insurance companies offer this option. It is worth comparing rates with your provider if you have this type of coverage. It's important to inform your insurance company you have lost the keys so they can check their records. They will inform you if your vehicle is reported stolen.
Contact the Police
Not long ago losing or misplacing your car keys was not an issue. A locksmith could cut a new car key right on the spot. Now, cars are much more technologically advanced, and keys can be expensive to replace.
It is recommended to first file a police report. This will help them track down the thief and also help you to prove that your keys were stolen. You will need to provide basic information like your car's model and model along with your name and address. You may also be required to provide proof that you own the vehicle for example, the V5C form with your name on it.
If you have a spare, you should try to find it. Sometimes these are stored in places accessible to the public like the back pocket of a jacket or the purse used when you leave home. You may want to inquire around for anyone who has seen your spare, like your roommates or family members. Also, key lost should check out public spaces, like restaurants and libraries. You might find your key in these locations, which collect keys that people have discovered and returned.
You may also want to speak with a professional automotive locksmith, if you are able to afford it. They can usually reprogram a key without the original and can even disable the old one so that no-one else has the ability to steal your car. It is possible to remove a component of the ignition to accomplish this. However, it's worth it if you've had your car stolen.
It's impossible to know when your car keys might be lost. But it's best to be prepared for the most likely. Follow these tips to minimize your chance of becoming a crime victim. Also, keep a spare car key in your car at all times. You never know when it might save your life! This article was contributed by Emma Car owner and blogger at CarsBlog.