What to Do When You Lose Your Car Keys?

Losing or misplacing your car keys is a situation that many people encounter. In the past, it may not have been a significant problem since spare keys were often easily accessible. However, with the advancement of car key technology, replacing lost keys has become more complex and costly. So, if you find yourself asking, “What should I do if I lose my car keys?” here are some steps to follow without unnecessary drama.

What Happens When You Lose Your Car Keys

Losing your car keys can be a stressful experience with several consequences. It restricts access to your vehicle, potentially leading to vehicle theft and causing inconvenience and frustration. To resolve the situation, prompt action is necessary. Retracing your steps, contacting a professional automotive locksmith, informing your insurance provider, and considering spare keys are essential steps to regain access to your car and mitigate the associated challenges.

What To Do When You Lose Your Car Keys

Losing your car keys without a spare can be more challenging, but it’s not an impossible situation. Here are some steps you can take to resolve the issue:

  • Examine Everything Carefully:

    Start by thoroughly searching all possible locations where you might have misplaced your keys. It’s common to overlook places like the dining room or bedroom.

  • Inform Your Insurance Provider:

    Notify your insurance company in writing about the lost key. This step is crucial because a lost key increases the risk of your vehicle being stolen. By informing your insurance company, you ensure that any potential vehicle theft claims won’t be denied later.

  • Use Spare Keys:

    When your key is lost, spare keys come in handy. Finding yourself locked out of your car can be a stressful experience, especially when you are away from home. Remember to reach out to the appropriate professionals, and take preventive measures to minimise the likelihood of future lockouts.

  • Contact a Professional Locksmith:

    If you can’t find your car keys, the next step is to call a professional locksmith. Locksmiths are trained and equipped to handle various types of locks, including car locks. They can assist you in gaining access to your vehicle and creating a new key.

  • Don’t Use Unauthorised Keys:

    Using unauthorised keys may result in a warranty breach by the car manufacturer. Locally made keys may temporarily open the lock, but they should not be used because they can also be used to steal the vehicle. If not used properly, these unauthorised keys can cause damage to your car’s lock.

  • File FIR:

    In many cases, people ignore the need to notify the police and file an F.I.R. in the event of a lost key. It’s crucial to report the incident to the police immediately and file an FIR stating the time and location of the incident. Share this report with your insurance company for processing any vehicle theft claims.

Find Your Car Key Type

Different types of car keys require different considerations. Determining the type of car key you’ve lost is essential to understand the appropriate replacement process. Here are the common types:

  • Keyless Entry Remote:

    Keyless entry remotes are also known as key fobs. These key fobs are sometimes used in conjunction with transponder keys. However, in recent years, newer car models have transitioned to keyless entry remotes. These types of keys are constantly communicating with your vehicle, making them much more accessible to you.

  • Smart Key

    Smart keys are highly advanced and offer keyless entry and ignition capabilities. They use radio frequency identification (RFID) or Bluetooth technology to communicate with your car. If you lose a smart key, it’s recommended to contact your car manufacturer or an authorised dealer to get a replacement.

  • Transponder Key:

    Transponder keys enhance the pairing process between your car and the key. When the correct key is pressed, the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) recognises it and starts the engine, allowing you to drive away. These keys improve communication between devices, making cars much more secure than they have ever been. Although the use of these keys improves security, they make it difficult to find a solution for a lost car key.

  • Traditional Car Keys:

    Traditional car keys are relatively simple to replace or duplicate. They are commonly found in older vehicles unless retrofitted with modern technology. While they may not offer high security, they are easier to replace if lost, as no pairing with the car’s electronics is required.

Seek Professional Assistance

If you find yourself asking “what can I do if I lost my car keys,” professional locksmith services can help. When selecting a locksmith a Melbourne, it’s crucial to choose a reputable and reliable service provider. Unique Locksmith is a trusted name in the industry, known for expertise and professionalism. We specialise in car door lock and ignition system repair, key replacement, unlocking locked cars, and extracting broken keys.

At Unique Locksmith, our expert locksmiths are available 24/7 to handle emergencies and provide prompt responses. With competitive and transparent pricing, we ensure no hidden fees surprise you. Conveniently, we come to your location fully equipped to assist you. Contact Unique Locksmith at any time by calling on 0466 111 100 or emailing at info@uniquelocksmith.com.au.

FAQs

The cost of getting a new set of car keys can vary depending on factors such as the type of key, the make and model of your vehicle, and the locksmith service you choose. It’s best to contact Unique Locksmith or a trusted locksmith in your area for an accurate quote.

Professional locksmiths have the expertise to create new car keys even if you don’t have the original key. They use specialised tools and techniques to decode the lock and create a new key from scratch. Contact a reputable locksmith in your area to get a new car key made without the original.

Lost car keys are typically not covered by standard auto insurance. However, if you have a comprehensive policy that covers theft as well as other events such as fire or vandalism, there may be exceptions. However, most standard car insurance policies do not cover lost or stolen car keys.

In most modern vehicles, there’s no need to replace the locks when you lose your keys. A skilled car locksmith can reconfigure the existing locks or program out the lost keys, saving you the hassle and expense of replacing the locks.