Studies have shown that the average driver spends 12 days of every year in their car. This should not be surprising when you consider that a vehicle is often used when traveling to and from work, shopping, running errands, pleasure trips, and much more.
When you consider how much we use our cars, it’s easy to understand why it can be so distressing when keys get lost. After thinking about looking everywhere, you begin to realize just how stuck you are.
Have you ever lost car keys and not had a spare? Fortunately, all is not lost. There are things you can do to overcome this problem. From ways to find them again to knowing locksmith services available, this article will get you back on the road in no time.
What to Do When You Lost Your Car Key
Retrace Your Steps
Car keys—or any other type of keys—have never been known just to vanish. They must be somewhere, and they are probably someplace where you were at some time during the day. After all, you got to where you are in your car.
Try retracing your steps. Do you recall when the last time you had your keys? The chances are good that is where they are now. Look. They are probably still waiting for you.
Search Systematically
If retracing your steps didn’t turn up your keys, try searching systematically. Go one room to another, looking everywhere in each room. Don’t assume anything, and don’t overlook anything.
Even check closets and laundry hampers. Also, make sure to check the pockets of dirty clothes.
Go Outside
Did you have an armload when you went from your car to the front door? You might have dropped your keys between the vehicle and the door. Also, check the yard.
Vehicle Information
Once you are sure you have checked everywhere, it might be time to try a different approach, namely the vehicle identification number (VIN). This can be found on the vehicle’s frame, at the bottom of the dashboard on the driver’s side.
It should clearly say “VIN: (then the number). The VIN is also usually on your insurance policy. Now record the year, make, and model of your car.
Visit a Locksmith
Now it is time to visit a locksmith who can make a new key. Try not to approach the first locksmith you find. Instead, find someone who you know something about, someone who has proven themselves in the past.
It’s also important to find a locksmith who has experience making car keys in a lockout situation.
It is always tempting in these situations to go to your local hardware store to have a new key made. This is usually not a good idea, since hardware and similar business are great for duplicating keys, but not making new ones.
Never Lose Keys Again
Everything above describes things to do after your car keys go missing. If you don’t ever want that to happen again, here are a few things you can do.
First, have an extra set made. There is no excuse for having only one set of keys. Having a second set is always a good idea. Store this different set on a peg in your home or in your wallet or purse.
Second, always have a designated place to keep keys. This should be a no-brainer since it works well for many people. When arriving home from work, have a place to put the keys, and make sure they are there until you develop the habit of putting them there as soon as you get home.
Also, buy a large, colorful key ring. Regardless of the situation, if a keyring is large enough and bright enough, it should be easy to spot wherever it is. Another idea is to buy one of those clapper-type devices that connect to your keys. Lose your keys? Just clap your hands, and the device will emit a beep until you find them.
Follow all of these steps and you will never have to worry about losing your keys again.