What do I do if I've lost my car keys?

The practical first step is arranging a replacement key, either through a main dealer or an auto locksmith - you'll typically need to prove the car is yours, so have your V5C to hand.

It's also worth thinking about whether the lost key is a security risk, not just an inconvenience. If there's any chance the key ended up with someone who could identify which car it belongs to, for example if your address was on the keyring, it's worth considering having the locks or immobiliser reprogrammed so the lost key no longer works.

If you genuinely believe the keys were stolen rather than just lost, for example taken in a burglary, it's worth reporting it to the police and telling your insurer, since it can affect how a future theft claim on the car itself would be treated.