5 Tools Everyone Within The Key Car Lost Industry Should Be Using
How to Locate a Key Car Lost
In the past, finding (or losing) keys to your car was a simple affair. Today, things can become much more complicated and expensive.
It doesn't matter if it's a standard key or a more advanced car key fob, it's important to notify the lost item as quickly as you can. Here's how. This will stop anyone from stealing your car keys.
Retract your Steps
It can be stressful and cause panic when you lose something important like your keys. There are, however, ways to retrace your steps and locate the object. The first thing to do is remember the last time you saw the key car and where to start your search. Then, think about where you went from there.
If you have a GPS device it is possible to use it to track the whereabouts of your key fob. This is only possible when your car is equipped with an electronic component and does not have a traditional key.
Close your eyes and imagine the time you spent there, and then try to remember the last time that you were able to see the keys. This can help to uncover important clues about the location where they went missing.
Another way to trace your steps is using a flashlight to scour the area where you suspect they could be. This is especially helpful when you're wearing dark clothes or are parked in a shaded area. You can also seek the help of friends and family members to help find your keys. They can offer a fresh perspective that could be able to spot things you missed.
If you're having trouble with your coach steps staying extended (even when the step switch is off), get a small bar magnet and attach it to the door sensor of the screen on the door frame. This will tell the system that the door is closed and will keep the steps in a retracted position. This is also a good option in the event that you want to keep the steps retracted while your vehicle is being stored at the dealer.
Contact the Dealership
It can be very frustrating to lose your keys. You could be forced to retrace your steps and searching for keys in your home, office and in other places. Eventually, you have to accept the fact that your car keys are gone and you'll have to contact help. You can do this by calling an auto dealer or locksmith. Depending on the circumstance and type of key, one of these options may be better than the other.
In general, car dealerships have the ability to make replacement keys for the vehicles they sell. They also have access to more information about the vehicle than a locksmith might provide, such as information about the way in which the vehicle is secured. They are the best choice for certain vehicles, particularly those keys that have security features such as a transponder. However, it is important to keep in mind that a dealership will likely be more expensive than a locksmith.
Some cars have a special key called a smart key with an internal chip that communicates with the car's computer. This lets drivers unlock and start their car without the use of the traditional key. If you lose this kind of key, it's recommended to contact the dealership to request the replacement. They'll require proof of your identity and have proof of ownership before they are able to create an original key. The dealer will also have to pair the new chip to the car's computer, which can take a few days.
It is a good idea to have an extra smart key in your pocket, as you might be able to access the car using it if you can't get into the dealership right away. Another alternative is to inquire with your insurance company if this type of loss is covered under your policy. If so it is, they'll offer you an alternative and could be able to track the location of your vehicle. They can send a tow-truck for your vehicle to be recovered and return it.
Contact Your Insurance Company
The loss of your keys to your car was not a huge problem until recently. If you lost your keys you might have an extra key on your keychain or in a small bag that was attached to your car. Richard Reina is the training director at CARiD. He says that modern cars today and require more sophisticated keys that are more difficult to lose and more costly to replace. Depending on the model and model, as well as the year of your car you might need to visit a dealership or a locksmith to make the new key.
In general, a locksmith is the most affordable option for a majority of people, and they can create a replacement key for you in only a few minutes. Some people prefer to contact their insurance provider to see whether roadside assistance is covered by the cost of a replacement key.
Most standard auto insurance policies do not cover keys that are stolen or lost. It is rare to find an additional policy that covers stolen or lost keys to cars. Roadside assistance is another option, but this usually only covers costs for the event that you lock your keys in your vehicle and doesn't cover the cost of replacing the key itself.
For electronic fobs, you'll have to head to the dealership to get a replacement key made. This involves pairing the new chip with your vehicle, which means you'll have to show evidence of ownership, such as your vehicle's registration or title. This could cost you several hundred dollars and could take longer than contacting the local locksmith.
Certain homeowner's insurance policies cover garage door openers and keys, but few car insurance companies offer this option. If you do have this option, it's worth checking with your provider and comparing prices to find the best deal. It's important to inform your insurance company you've lost your keys so that they can verify their records. They will notify you if the vehicle is reported as stolen.
Contact the Police
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing your car keys or losing them was not a big issue. You could go to a locksmith and get a new key cut on the spot. Nowadays, cars are more technologically advanced, and keys can be costly to replace.
First, you should start by filing a police complaint. This will help them find the person responsible, and it will also help you to prove that you keys were stolen. You'll have to provide basic information, including the model and make of your vehicle as well as your address and name. You may also be required to provide proof that you own the car, such as the V5C form with your name on it.
If you have a spare, you should try to find it. Sometimes, these are kept in places that are easy to access like the back pocket of a jacket or the purse you carry around when you leave the house. You might ask around to find if anyone has seen it, such as roommates or family. Also, you should check out public spaces, like libraries and restaurants. These areas often collect keys that have been discovered and turned in and returned, and you may be lucky enough to locate yours among them.
You might also want to contact a specialist automotive locksmith, if you can afford it. They can reprogram the key without the original key, and even disable the old 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 car has been taken.
It's impossible to predict when your car keys might be lost. However, it's important to prepare for the most likely. Use these tips to minimize your chance of being a victim. Also ensure lost key in car have an extra key in your pocket at all times. You never know when it will save your life! Emma, blogger and owner of a car at CarsBlog contributed to this article.