What to Do If You Lose Your Car Keys

It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. Things could get lost in the chaos of school pick-ups, grocery shopping trips and other chores.

The most important thing to remember is not to panic. Finding the key typically requires going back to your steps.

1. Retract your Steps

It's no secret that keys are among of the most frequently used objects that get lost. It could happen to anyone, whether you're on an errand, distracted when you get out of your car, or at home, hurrying to get ready for work and forgetting your keys. There are some steps you can take before calling a locksmith if you've lost your keys.

You'll need to retrace every step. It isn't easy to recall where you were when you last saw your keys, and also where you went afterward. You may find it useful to write down the steps you did so that you can find them later.

If you have searched in the most obvious places but cannot find your keys, you might need to look in different places. Be sure to check any pockets or bags that you've worn throughout the day, and also your house. Remember that your keys will likely be somewhere close by - they're just not in a visible spot. It can also be helpful to search for your keys near any other items they're typically connected to, such as laptops or purses.

If you've tried all these options but you are still unable to locate your keys, then it's time to call for an emergency locksmith who is available 24 hours per day. But before you do, try some of these tips to avoid your keys disappearing in the future:

2. Find a spare key

Car keys have an amazing ability to disappear inside pockets of coats, under couch cushions, or just disappear completely. In the past it wasn't a big problem since it was easy to get a new key at any hardware store or locksmith. With the introduction of key fob technology, it is now much more difficult to replace keys that have been lost.

It is advisable to keep an extra car key in hand. You will not have to call a tow truck and will be able to return your vehicle if you lose your key. It is recommended to keep the spare key somewhere else than your keychain so that it's not as easy to lose. If you don't have an extra key, think about making one to decrease the chance of losing your keys.

It is possible to get a traditional car key made by a locksmith or an auto dealer, based on the model of your car. It is important to remember that the dealer will need to program your key to match your vehicle.

Many modern cars come equipped with a keyless entry system that allows you to unlock the car with a remote control device. If you lose your fob, the only way to get it back is to visit the dealer or locksmith to have them match the replacement fob with your vehicle. Make it a habit of placing your keys in the same spot every time you arrive home. If it's on the entry table or the bowl on your front porch or even a hook by the door, it can aid in remembering where they are and where they will be in the future.

3. Empty Your Pockets

It's a horrible feeling to lose your car keys. If you dropped keys in the rush to leave the house, or your little ones hid them in the couch for a game of hide-and-seek and then lost your keys to your car can make you feel anxious and overwhelmed.

Fortunately, panicking won't help you find your keys. It could cause more problems. Keep calm and follow the steps listed below to locate your keys as fast as you can.

Start by going back through your day and recollecting where you last saw them. If you remember that they were in your pocket, make sure to search all of your pockets and bags thoroughly. You can also go through the steps you took to see whether they were located anywhere else. You can also look over your car, but you'll need to thoroughly search both the exterior and interior.

If you've tried everything and still can't locate your car keys then it's time to begin more advanced searches. This includes searching the fridge and freezer for your keys. You'll need to open and close both of these appliances, and check inside, since you never know where tiny objects might be hiding.

Another excellent method to avoid losing your car keys is to connect them to a long lanyard or chain. This will make it easier to locate keys because they're more noticeable and longer. You can also make your keys stand out using a bright color.


4. Call the Police

It's obvious that the first thing you should do when you lose your car keys is call the police. It is crucial to report your lost keys to your car as soon you lose them to ensure you don't have problems with someone using your vehicle or entering your home. Notifying your loss in time can also be beneficial in terms of insurance coverage as most policies cover locksmith costs and even replacement keys from dealerships.

They'll let you know if they've discovered your keys or if they've been stolen when you call them. They'll also offer some advice on how to avoid the theft of your keys. If they can't locate your keys, they will likely be asking you for information about when you lost them, and where you were prior to that.

If lost my car keys have an old-fashioned metal key that doesn't operate electronically The first thing to do is to check your bags, pockets, and anywhere else you normally carry them. After you've done that then go back through your day and try to recall where you lost the keys. It's possible you put them down on a counter, or searched your bag to get something and then the keys fell out.

If you have a transponder key that works electronically, it must be paired with the car and this can only be done at a dealership. It can cost a couple hundred dollars or more, based on the model and brand of your car. You can also contact emergency roadside service from GEICO, always available through the GEICO mobile app. This service can save you money and time by sending the locksmith via mobile to you.

5. Contact a locksmith

When you're running errands and put your car keys in the trunk for just a second and they'll be gone. This is all too common, since keys are the most misplaced item among Americans1. You can't prevent this from happening constantly. You can, however, take steps to reduce the chance of losing them.

A spare key can help, but it doesn't guarantee that you will not lose the original. A keychain with a tracking device will assist you in finding your keys in the event that they get lost. A tracking device will notify your smartphone when it detects the signal from your lost keys, making it easier to find.

If you're unable to find your car keys, you should call locksmiths to come out and replace them. If you are able to provide proof of ownership, for example the registration or title of your vehicle A locksmith will be able create a key for you.

The traditional keys are the most straightforward to replace. If you own an electronic remote key fob or smart key, you will need to contact your dealer to have one made. You can also buy replacement keys on the internet. But, ensure you verify that the key can be programmed for the specific vehicle you own.

The loss of your car keys can be a stressful event However, it does not have to be. By following the tips given above, you can retrieve your keys and get back on the road. Be sure to remain cool and calm. Don't get scared! Keep in mind that you're not alone. Everyone has lost their keys at one point in time.