What to Do When Your Car Keys Go Missing

September 22, 2023

You are about to get in your car and be on your way. But you cannot find your keys. After many minutes of a fruitless search, you realize that you have lost it. Do not panic. Stay calm. Here are the steps to take in the event of a lost car key.

1. Declare the loss of your car keys

The first thing to do if you have  lost your car keys : report it. For that:

  • Go immediately to a police station,
  • make a loss declaration,
  • collect your loss certificate before leaving the police station

This is simple and important. The attestation can be of great help to you to prove your innocence if your car is stolen without a break-in.

If you think there’s a possible theft of your keys, report the theft. This is essential for your insurer in the event of an accident.

2. Call your insurance if you need assistance

Are you stuck in the parking lot of a shopping center without your car key? Depending on your auto insurance contract and your insurer, you can benefit from breakdown assistance. You benefit from assistance even if you are very close to your home in the event of the  loss of your vehicle keys .

In any case and whatever your insurer, do not hesitate to contact them for the terms and conditions of coverage in the event of the need for towing, for example.

You can also call a locksmith to come get you out of that sticky situation quickly. An emergency locksmith close to your location will come to you and get you back into your car. Then, you’ll attend to the key later when your car is parked at a safer location.

3. Have your car keys redone

The easiest way to get a new key if you don’t have a duplicate is to go to a dealership. You must provide your vehicle registration certificate on-site. The amount requested varies depending on the type of your key. For example, a standard key without electronics will cost you less than a new-generation transponder key.

Do you have a duplicate key? Note that it is possible to obtain a reproduction from a locksmith specializing in the automobile. The presentation of the registration card is compulsory in this situation.

Did you know? 
Depending on your contract, your car insurance may intervene to tow you to your home or your dealer in the event of the loss of your car keys. However, the production of new keys is generally not covered by the insurer.

In Summary

When you notice the loss of car keys, you should:

Being left without a car key is a constraint and a source of concern. To avoid any worry: prepare in advance. Entrust your duplicate to someone trustworthy. And if you do not have a duplicate, have your key reproduced and entrust it to a loved one.

Call Us Any Time!

Call Now
The Rise of NFC-Based Car Keys: What You Need to Know
By Youmna Rehman August 28, 2025
Discover everything about NFC-based car keys, how they work, their benefits, potential security risks, and expert tips to keep your vehicle safe in the era of smart automotive technology.
How to Protect Your Car Keys From Relay Theft
By Youmna Rehman August 28, 2025
Learn how to protect your car keys from relay theft in 2025. Discover proven tips, Faraday pouches, keyless entry security hacks, and tools to safeguard your vehicle
By Youmna Rehman August 26, 2025
Are digital locks safer than traditional deadbolts in 2025? Discover the pros, cons, and latest security trends. Compare advanced smart lock features with classic deadbolt reliability to choose the best option for your home.
By Youmna Rehman August 26, 2025
Wondering if smart locks can be integrated with home security cameras? 🏠🔐 Learn how they work together, the benefits, compatibility tips, setup steps, potential risks, and when to call a professional locksmith for seamless smart home security.
How AI Is Changing the Future of Locksmithing
By Youmna Rehman August 24, 2025
Unlock smooth mornings with underarm laser hair removal! Discover how it works, benefits, lasting results, and whether it’s worth it for you.
Moving Into a New Apartment? Here's Your Complete Lock Checklist
By Youmna Rehman August 24, 2025
Moving into a new apartment? Learn why changing or rekeying your locks should be your first priority. Keep your home secure with simple, proactive steps.
When to Call a Locksmith vs. DIY Lock Repair
By Youmna Rehman August 20, 2025
"Not sure whether to fix a lock yourself or call a locksmith? Learn when DIY lock repair is safe, when it can backfire, and when professional help is the smartest choice."
Seasonal Lock Maintenance: How to Prep Locks for Winter
By Youmna Rehman August 20, 2025
Prepare your locks for winter with these expert seasonal maintenance tips. Learn how to prevent freezing, rust, and damage to keep your home secure all season long
More Posts