I Lost My Car Keys, What Do I Do Now?

When you lose your car keys, or are a victim of key or keyless entry fob theft, it’s difficult to not panic – it’s important that you remember car key programming as key process.

As well as having a new key made, it’s essential that you follow various steps to ensure that your old fob is no longer able to access the vehicle, or disable the immobiliser.

At Car Keys Solutions, we’re Experts in Emergency Replacement of Lost & Stolen Car Keys – here’s some advice on what to do if you ever find yourself in this situation…. call us on 0203 393 5669

For more information on our car key programming service, click here

At Car Keys Solutions, our expert team uses the latest equipment and technologies for emergency key cutting, key fob programming and roadside vehicle access, ghost 2 immobilisers, and electronic fob programming.

Talk to one of our advisers now  by calling 0203 393 5669

Lost Your Car Key? Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide on What to Do Next Losing your car keys can be inconvenient, leaving you stranded and stressed. But don’t panic! This step-by-step guide will walk you through what to do next in this frustrating situation.

First, take a deep breath and try to remain calm. It’s important to approach the situation clearly to take the necessary steps to resolve it quickly.

The first action is to retrace your steps and thoroughly search for your lost car key. Check all the usual spots: your pockets, bags, and anywhere else you might have put them. If you still can’t find them, it’s time to contact a professional auto locksmith who can assist you in getting back into your car. They have the expertise and tools to help you gain access to your vehicle and even create a new set of keys if needed.

Losing your car keys is undoubtedly stressful, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll be back on the road quickly. So, let’s dive in and discover how to handle this situation efficiently and effectively.

Section 1: Assessing the situation

Losing your car keys can happen to anyone, so assessing the situation and determining the best course of action is important. Start by asking yourself a few key questions: Do you have a spare key? Is your car parked in a safe location? Are you in a hurry, or can you afford to wait for assistance? If you don’t have a spare key, you must take immediate action to gain access to your vehicle. On the other hand, if your car is parked in a secure location and you have some time to spare, you may have more flexibility regarding your next steps.

Section 2: Contacting your leasing company car manufacturer or dealership

If your car is leased, under warranty, and you have a service plan with your dealer, it’s worth contacting them to inquire about their assistance. Some car manufacturers or leasing companies offer roadside assistance programs to help you with car key replacements or lockout services. Contact the customer service number provided by your manufacturer or check their website for more information. Alternatively, you can also contact your local car dealership and ask if they can assist you with getting a new key or unlocking your car. They may require some information to verify your ownership, so be prepared to provide them with your vehicle identification number (VIN) or any other relevant details.

Section 3: Calling a locksmith

Calling a professional auto locksmith is your best bet if you don’t have access to manufacturer assistance or prefer a quicker solution. locksmiths for cars have the necessary skills and tools to help you gain access to your car and create a new key if necessary. Make sure to choose a reputable locksmith with experience in automotive lockouts. When calling a locksmith, please provide them with all the necessary details, such as your car’s make and model, location, and any other relevant information. They will be able to give you an estimate of the cost and arrival time. Having some form of identification ready to show the locksmith to prove that you own the vehicle is a good idea.

Section 4: Checking your car insurance coverage

Your car insurance policy may cover replacing a lost key or getting you back into your locked car. Review your policy documents or contact your insurance provider to check if you have coverage for such scenarios. If you do, they will guide you on the following steps to take and any documentation they may require. Filing a claim for a lost key could affect your insurance premium, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding.

Section 5: Making a police report

If you suspect your car keys were stolen or believe they were lost in a public place, it’s advisable to make a police report. This will help create a record of the incident and may be required by your insurance company or the locksmith for verification. When making a police report, please provide them with all the relevant details, such as the time and location of the incident, a description of the keys, and any other information that might be helpful in their investigation. Remember to ask for a copy of the report for your records.

Section 6: Have your key deleted from the immobiliser system

This is very important to ensure the car’s security is not compromised. Have the lost key deleted from the car ghost immobiliser system. Doing this will prevent unauthorised access to your vehicle if someone finds your lost car key. It is equally essential to recode the vehicle locks so the blade from the missing key won’t be able to unlock the car or turn the ignition in case someone finds it.

Taking precautions to prevent future key loss and being stranded.

Losing your car keys can be a frustrating experience, but there are steps you can take to avoid it from happening again. Consider implementing the following precautions:

1. Get a keychain or lanyard: Attaching your keys to a keychain or lanyard can make them more visible and less likely to be misplaced.
2. Create a designated spot: Designate a specific place in your home where you always put your keys. This will help you develop a habit of always placing them there and minimise the chances of losing them.
3. Have a spare key: Making a spare key and keeping it safe can save you much trouble in case of future key loss.

Getting a spare key made

Once you’ve resolved your immediate car key issue, it’s a good idea to get a spare key made. Having a spare car keys can save you time and money if you are in a similar situation. Contact your car manufacturer, dealership or a reputable auto locksmith to inquire about getting a spare key. They will guide you on the process, including any required documentation and the cost involved. Conclusion and final tips Losing your car keys can be a stressful experience, but by following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate through it efficiently and effectively. Remember to remain calm and assess the situation before taking any action. Contact your car manufacturer, dealership, or a professional auto locksmith for assistance. Check your car insurance coverage and consider making a police report if necessary. Take precautions to prevent future key loss and explore alternative transportation options while you wait to regain access to your vehicle. Finally, get a spare key made to avoid future inconveniences. You’ll return to the road in no time by staying prepared and taking the necessary steps. Safe travels!