Lost keys can leave you stranded and panicky. However, becoming upset or angry won't help your situation. Before you contact an emergency locksmith, take a deep breath and consider your next moves. The information below may help you find a way out of the situation.

What to Do if You've Lost Your Car Keys

Check Your Car

Not surprisingly, the place most people discover their lost keys is inside their car. Is it in the ignition or lying on the passenger seat? If it is, you should be able to see it through one of the windows even if the vehicle is locked. Do you have a spare? Even if the spare does not include controls to unlock the vehicle remotely or automatically, you can use it to unlock the door and retrieve your primary key. Although many modern vehicles do not feature exposed keyholes in the door, most still have one hidden behind a decorative panel somewhere on the door.

Consider Telematics

Is your vehicle equipped with a telematics system like OnStar®, mBrace®, or BlueLink®? If it is, you're in luck. You can typically ask them to unlock and start your car via phone call or smartphone app. This will at least let you access the car and give you immediate transportation, although it's not a long-term solution.

Replace the Transponder

Many modern vehicles—particularly those with a push-button ignition—won't start without a transponder key present. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the transponder by contacting a local dealership. This may cost hundreds of dollars, but you can often find an experienced locksmith who can handle the job for less.

 

To avoid the need for an emergency locksmith service, it's important to have a spare car key made in advance. To avoid problems, carry it with you or mount it under your car in a magnetic case. However, if you've lost keys and need immediate assistance, contact AAL Lock & Key, a mobile auto locksmith in Concord, NC. They've been serving customers in and around Cabarrus County since 1995 and have the experience and expertise to duplicate even smart keys. Visit their Facebook page to connect with them online or call (704) 458-7097 to request service.