Steps

1 Scour the immediate area for your keys, including couch cushions, the trash, drawers, the refrigerator, your purse, shirt and trouser pockets, coat pockets, and, if your car is unlocked, your car's ignition, seats and floorboard.

2 Use a sonic key finding device, if you have one. When you click the "find" button on one of these devices, your electronic key will react by emitting a loud sound and flashing a bright light. If your key is nearby, the sound and light will make it much easier for you to find.

3 Retrace the steps you took since you last used your car keys, continuing to search carefully and thoroughly. Check places where your keys may have been dropped after exiting the car, such as the gutter or in the bushes near your parking spot, and places you may have absentmindedly left your keys, such as your work desk. If you were at a friend's house or at a store or restaurant, give them a call to see if you left your keys with them.