What to do if…
you lose your vehicle keys while you are out and you are stranded

What to do now

1. Make yourself safe first.
   If the vehicle is stopped where other drivers may not see it, turn on hazard lights if you can. Move away from travel lanes if it is safe to do so. A business, lobby, well-lit public area, barrier, shoulder, or other protected spot is better than standing near traffic.

2. Use 911 only for immediate danger.
   Call 911 if the vehicle is blocking traffic, you are stranded in the travel portion of a road, you cannot get to a safe place, a child or vulnerable person is locked inside, or you feel threatened.

3. Get your exact location ready.
   Open your maps app, drop a pin, and copy the address or intersection. Also note the parking lot name, gas station, mile marker, direction of travel, nearby exit, or any visible landmark.

4. Do one focused search, then stop.
   Check your pockets, bag lining, recent counter, restroom, ground nearby, and under or beside the vehicle only if it is safe. If you use a Bluetooth tracker, open the tracker app now. Keep this short so you do not drift into unsafe places or drain your phone.

5. Call the fastest legitimate help you already have.
   Try your insurance roadside assistance, AAA if you are a member, an automaker app or connected service you already set up, or another roadside benefit you already know you have. Say whether the keys are locked inside, fully missing, possibly stolen, or the vehicle says the key is not detected.

6. Check whether remote unlock is available.
   If your vehicle has an automaker app or connected service already active, check whether it can unlock the vehicle or request roadside help. Do not spend a long time setting up new accounts while you are unsafe or your phone battery is low.

7. If you need a locksmith, slow the decision down.
   Ask for the company name, total estimated cost, what could change the price, arrival window, and whether they can handle your key type, such as transponder, push-button start, or keyless fob. A legitimate provider may ask for identification or proof that you are entitled to access the vehicle.

8. Choose the simplest safe route back to mobility.

   • Keys locked inside: roadside lockout service may be enough.
   • Keys lost entirely: a mobile automotive locksmith may be able to cut or program a replacement.
   • Vehicle needs dealer-only help: you may need a tow to a dealer or trusted repair shop.
   • No quick fix nearby: arrange a tow to a safer location and get yourself somewhere safe while the key issue is handled.

9. If theft is possible, treat it as a security issue.
   Move to safety. Use 911 only if there is an immediate threat; otherwise contact local police through a non-emergency route if you want to report it. Ask the locksmith or dealer whether the missing key can be disabled or removed from the vehicle’s system.

10. Tell one trusted person what is happening.
    Text your location, vehicle description, who you called, and the estimated arrival time. If someone is coming to help, share the company name or driver details when you have them.