You’re about to leave the house and you realize you’ve not found your car keys, but they’re nowhere in your typical location.
You’ve spent 20 minutes looking and it starts to hit you that you’ve lost the keys to your car. What next? We’re here to assist you.
I’m unable to locate my keys to the car! What can I do?
First , take care not to worry. Stress and anxiety only cloud your mind and make it less likely to spot them, even if they’re right within your reach.
We’re not experts in giving you directions on where to look for something however some areas to look for are:
Pant and trouser pockets do not forget to put them you put in your laundry bin!
In your bag for your weekend bag/handbag/gym bag, or in the bag you pulled out the other night
“dumping grounds” are locations where clutter accumulates
Kitchen counters
Tables for bedside and dining
The back of the sofa
The four most common kinds of keys for cars.
Mechanical keys
Keys like these represent the most fundamental of keys and are typically found on older vehicles. They’re made from metal and are available in the form of a switchblade with an opening button that lets you pop open the lock.
Since the key is made out of metal, it’s very easy to duplicate it.
Key fob for remote with integrated keys
The key can be multi-functional. There are two ways on how to use it : either using the fob key, or using the mechanical keys.
Remote fob with keyless remote
Remote car keys are equipped with buttons on the fob that allow for opening and locking your car from a an in-between distance. They’re typically battery operated, and usually require you to plug it in the ignition in order to start the vehicle.
Transponder keys
The keys could have an electronic chip that transmits an array of codes to your vehicle. It isn’t necessary to insert keys in the ignition and will be able to start your car at any time it is within distance.
Something to be aware of is that keys are more likely to be accessible to keyless vehicle theft.
The replacement of the keys is more difficult, as the new key must be programmed to correspond with the car you own.
If you’ve lost the old keys, the locksmith requires the VIN number of your vehicle (VIN) to make the new key programable. This can be found just in front of the steering wheel in the lower left-hand side of your dashboard.
What can I do to get spare car keys if I lose my car keys and don’t have another set?
If you’ve looked all over the place, but you’re still not finding your keys, there are several car key replacement alternatives.
Purchase a car key replacement for your car from the dealer
A new set of keys for your car from a dealer is pretty simple. But it’s not the most expensive and lengthy alternative.
Contact an expert locksmith
The cheapest option is probably an auto locksmith who will reprogram a car key without having to purchase the original. Find out the prices of locksmiths in your area and try to locate one that is suitable for your budget.
If they have a blank car key that matches the car you’re driving it is possible to receive your replacement key faster than an auto dealer.
A lot of auto locksmiths provide the mobile service, which means they will travel to your location. They ought to be able to cut your spare key as well as reprogram the remote fob for your car keys.
They must also erase the key that was originally programmed, rendering it ineffective if it falls into the incorrect hands. Keys and locks that are damaged are often repaired.
Car breakdown assistance
You may also contact your breakdown assistance. But, you might be faced with a long waiting time or discover that they do not have the appropriate car key cutting tools.
It’s likely to be faster rather than calling an auto locksmith from the beginning.
Garage
A garage near you is the your first stop However, it’s a matter of luck if they’re equipped with the appropriate equipment. There could be a charge for the use of all diagnostic programs.
What information do I require to purchase a new key?
Typically, you will require:
A document of ID is a valid ID, and could include an ID card for driving
The model and make of your car.
The VIN number of your car’s vehicle identification (VIN)
Your V5C logbook that proves you own the vehicle.
What should I do if i’ve locked my keys inside my car?
If you’re not a fan of the idea of stealing your car then you can phone your breakdown company when you have breakdown coverage.
Depending on the amount of people they have to see it could be some waiting until they are able to reach you. You should try to unlock the car and retrieve the keys. If they aren’t able to then they’ll likely call locksmiths, however you might have to pay for it yourself.
Do I have to claim on my auto insurance for new keys?
Some insurance companies for cars may provide cover for keys that are lost or stolen in their policies. Others may have keys for cars as an extra option.
Review your policy’s documentation to determine what’s included. If you’re unable to locate the documents, don’t fret. It is likely that you can replace the missing insurance documents promptly.
There might be limitations regarding the coverage offered. For instance, there could be an overpayment to be paid or coverage may be only available on specific types of policies.
Contact your insurance company to find out what the options are.
How can you protect yourself from keys to your car being lost
Get a key finder
If you don’t want get your keys back You can make use of fobs for key finding. If you are unable to locate your keys, you can use connecting the app enable the fob. It will be able to whistle to tell you where your keys are.
Cut an extra car key
If you have the original key, it could be worthwhile to cut the spare car key. The key cutter at your local store might specialize in keys for cars and it’s worth checking them out first.
The price you will pay for a spare will depend on how sophisticated you’d like to make it.
If you are looking for a basic key that does not have a remote It should be affordable. If you’re looking for the exact copy of your key that comes with every bell and whistle it could be more costly.
It is a good idea to consider your options before making a final decision.