Quick Answer
- Call your rental car company first
- Find your Rental Agreement paper
- Tell them your key type (smart key or normal key)
- Ask how to get the spare key
- Ask if towing is needed
- Check the total cost
Estimated cost: 20,000–100,000 yen (depending on the vehicle and key type)
NOC (Non-Operation Charge) may apply depending on the rental company.
🚨 If a child, older person, or pet is inside the car, focus on safety first.
1. First Step: Contact Your Rental Car Company
Conclusion: Call your rental car company right away.
Reason: Only the rental company can decide what to do with the key.
Detail: You cannot call a locksmith by yourself. The rental company must decide the next steps.
📄 Super Important: Find Your Rental Agreement
Your Rental Agreement paper includes:
- Company phone number
- Car license plate
- Contract number
- Emergency contact
Take a photo of the paper with your phone.
Paper can get wet or lost easily.
You can usually find it in:
- The glove box
- Your bag
- Your wallet
📍 Tip: Take a Screenshot of Your Location
Rental companies always ask: “Where are you now?”
Open Google Maps and take a screenshot of your location.
⚠️ Important
Do not leave the vehicle unattended in an unsafe location.
Tell the rental company if the car is blocking traffic or parked illegally.
What to Tell the Rental Company
- Your name
- Car model (Aqua, Fit, Note, etc.)
- License plate number
- Key type (smart key or normal key)
- Your current location (Google Maps screenshot)
2. The Response Depends on Your Key Type
🔑 A. Smart Key (Most Cars)
Conclusion: Smart keys usually need a spare key or towing.
Reason: Smart keys have electronic parts and cannot be made on the spot.
Detail:
- Staff may bring the spare key to you
- Or you may pick it up at the office
- If the car cannot move, towing may be needed
Cost:
Travel fee: 3,000–10,000 yen
New smart key: 20,000–50,000 yen
Smart keys are more expensive because they have electronic parts.
Insurance:
Some credit card or travel insurance plans may cover key loss.
Coverage depends on your contract.
In Japan, you usually pay first and claim later with receipts.
🔑 B. Normal Key (Older Cars)
Conclusion: Normal keys may be made on-site.
Reason: They do not require electronic programming.
Detail:
- A locksmith may make a new key
- But Okinawa has few locksmiths, so it may take time
Cost:
Key making: 10,000–20,000 yen
Travel fee: 3,000–10,000 yen
3. What to Do Depending on the Location
🏖️ At the Beach
- Sand makes keys hard to find
- Check the beach office
- Check showers and lockers
- Keys dropped in the ocean are usually lost
See also:
What to Do If You Lose Something at the Beach or in the Ocean in Okinawa
🛒 At a Supermarket or Shopping Mall
- Go to the service counter
- Check baskets, restrooms, and the parking area
- Items are kept for a few days, then sent to the police
See also:
What to Do If You Lose Something at a Supermarket or Shopping Mall in Okinawa
🏨 At Your Hotel
- Ask the front desk
- Check your room, lobby, and restaurant
- Cleaning staff often find lost keys
More Guides in the Lost Item Series
Lost your key at the beach?
🏖️ What to Do If You Lose Something at the Beach or in the Ocean in Okinawa
Lost it while shopping?
🛒 What to Do If You Lose Something at a Supermarket or Shopping Mall in Okinawa
Think you may have left it at your hotel?
🏨 What to Do If You Lose Something at Your Hotel in Okinawa
Need help with other lost items?
📖 Okinawa Travel: What to Do When You Lose Something (Comprehensive Guide)
We hope your trip gets back on track quickly and you can enjoy the rest of your time in Okinawa.
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