How to Recover a Lost Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a stressful experience. But, it is important to keep your cool and remember that losing your keys does not need to be a big deal.
Modern key fobs are more sophisticated than traditional keys, which opened doors and turned on the ignition. It is important to know what to do if you lose your key so that you don't have to pay a costly fee to replace it.
Retract your Steps
A lost car key could be a nightmare for anyone who drives. Fortunately, there are many ways to retrieve your keys.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. This simple technique can be very useful in finding lost keys. You might have dropped them in a hurry and forgotten about them. You can retrace your steps to recall where you were the last time you were able to see them. It's also a good idea to check any places you've been to recently even if they're not places you normally store your keys. It's entirely possible that your keys got tossed out of a bag or pocket and are buried somewhere you wouldn't expect.
Another way to locate your lost keys is by using a tracker. The device is small, and it is attached to the keys. Then, you can use an application to locate them. This is only possible if your keys are equipped with an electronic component, like a remote key fob.
If you don't have a tracking device or aren't able to locate your keys, the next step is to contact a local automotive locksmith. They can assist you in creating a new key, and reprogram it for the anti-theft system in your vehicle. However the process is generally expensive and can cost a few hundred dollars.
You might need to have your vehicle towed to a dealer in order to retrieve keys that were lost. It's a good idea to keep a spare set of keys in your car, and to take preventative steps to ensure that you don't lose your keys in the first place.
If g28carkeys.co.uk lose your keys the most important thing is to stay calm. When you can't locate your keys, it's easy to panic. However, if you begin screaming at yourself, it will make it much more difficult to find them. If you're still not able to locate your keys within some time, it may be time to call a locksmith or go to the dealership. No matter what you decide to do, make sure to inform your insurance company so that they will be able to assist in the event of damage to your vehicle in the future.
Be aware of your hiding spots
It's important that you choose an area where people aren't aware of your spare key. Otherwise, you're making yourself an easy target for thieves. A flower pot or plant box is the usual place where many people keep their spare keys, however this can be a big mistake. If a burglar discovers keys, he could also find valuables, such as your wallet.
Another common hiding spot is behind the door, but it can be difficult to access in the event that you're locked out. Special locks that resemble normal locks and attach to the door's interior are available, but they can be costly. You can conceal the key in grass or under a mat. Some people also use fake rocks that look normal, but conceal a compartment for the key.
The key is usually kept in the car however this is a risky option. Thieves are aware of this technique and could be able to access the gas cap from outside. If you're concerned about this, get a magnetic key holder to attach to the underside your vehicle. It looks like an actual license plate, but it's designed to conceal the spare key.
You can also conceal the key in your garage, particularly if it is detached. A key that is tucked into a corner on the side of your garage door will stay away from view and reach unless you have an access ladder.
Vinyl siding also makes for an ideal hiding spot since there are sometimes slight splits that you can slip the key into. Just make sure to tie a piece of fishing line to the key, and then slide it into the wall until only a tiny bit is showing. This will stop the key from sliding in case you accidentally hit it while looking for it.
You can also nail the spare key at the top of the tree's branch if you have many trees on your property. If you reside in an area that has a lot of trees, this is a great option. A majority of people won't think about looking here to find your keys.
Try turning off the car
Not long ago when you lost your car keys wasn't a big issue. You could contact a locksmith to help you out and it was usually just $20 or so. Today, cars are more and more advanced in technology, making them more expensive to replace.
A specific computer chip is required to turn on an engine in a new vehicle. It communicates with the ECU. The car will not start without this chip. It's essential to have the correct key.
You may be able start your car with an older traditional style key. If this does not work, you might need to contact a locksmith to create a new one or contact your dealership for assistance.
You can also start the car with a spare key. This is a good option for the majority of new manual vehicles, since they have spare keys. This option is more risky and will depend on the vehicle, but it could work.
This technique also requires technical knowledge and a toolbox. It also involves removing parts of the engine and isn't advisable for anyone. It's best to leave it to a professional to take care of this type of work, especially since you'll be bypassing some of the safety features in the vehicle.
A backup car key is always an ideal option in the event you lose the original. You can get a traditional key, however a smart key or transponder is also available. These keys are more expensive and require a visit to the dealer in order to purchase an updated one.
Walk Back Through Your Day
Everyone has experienced this: you lose your car keys. It's among the most frustrating things you can do since it instantly ruins your day. You'll be late for work, and your chores aren't going to be completed. You might even be required to replace your key fob when you rent the vehicle. But, it doesn't have to be this way. Follow these easy tips to prevent losing your keys and ruining your day.
Don't panic first. Relaxing will allow you to relax and focus your thoughts. You can also record your location so that you can revisit to find where you left your keys.
If you're unable to remember where you placed them, walk back to your day. If you lost them while you were running errands, go back to each stop and reflect on the things you were doing. Did you set them down on the counter? You may have knocked them loose while grabbing something from your bag. Make sure you remember exactly the location you observed them.
After you've gone back through your day, check everywhere else. You may have put them in the pocket of the jacket you wore or inside bags you brought with you. Look in places that you wouldn't normally think to look, such as the pockets of clothes worn by other people or under the couch cushion.
If you are unable to locate your car keys, you can call someone to help. Ask your friends if they have seen keys, or better yet call an locksmith. You do not want to end up paying for a new key, or worse, having your car stolen. An expert can help get your keys quickly and efficiently. It's also an excellent idea to have an extra car key therefore, make sure you keep it in a secure place.