What to Do If Your Car Keys Are Stolen
It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. But, it's essential to keep calm and not panic.
Then, go back to the steps you took. This will help to determine if the keys to your car are actually stolen or just lost. Next, contact your insurance company. You may be able file an insurance claim, depending on the circumstances.
Inform the police
Reporting the theft of your car keys to police is the first step. This will provide you with an identification number which can be used to track the keys and your vehicle. The police can also provide suggestions on how to secure your vehicle, for example by using a lock on your wheel.
The next step is to find the keys. Check every pocket, bag and other possible places where they may be. Check places you might not typically look, such as under the seat or your shoes. You can also utilize an application to locate your keys such as Tile or AirTag. These apps can ring your keys or show its last known location on a map but they only work when the keys are within reach of your phone.
If you are using an older key without any fancy chips, you can easily replace it at your local locksmith. If you have an electronic or remote-controlled key, you'll need visit the dealership. It is worth checking to find out if your insurance covers the cost of replacing a lock and key.
Car thefts caused by people leaving their keys inside are on the rise, and it is vital to ensure they are secure at all times. Thieves may use a device called a relay attack to copy the signal from the car's key fob and then wait for a accomplice to arrive with another piece of equipment that will open the vehicle. This is a typical method of car theft in cities, where thieves have access to sophisticated equipment. Always leave an extra set of keys in a different location than in your vehicle. Also, you should never leave your insurance cards or license in your car since they are important tools for identity thieves. If you have lost your keys, contact your insurance provider and the police immediately.
Contact your insurance company
If you're a comprehensive vehicle insurance policy owner It is essential to notify your company immediately about the keys that are missing. This will ensure your safety, and prevent others from using your vehicle. Most policies will reimburse you for the cost of a locksmith, or even the dealer who will create a new set of keys.
It's stressful to lose your keys. The last thing you want to happen is that you are the one who uses them! Contact your local locksmith and ask them to design a duplicate key. They will also be able to program the replacement key to ensure that the stolen key is no longer working.
Reporting your keys stolen to the police as quickly as you can is always recommended, especially in the case of a smart key. The police will be able to give you a crime reference number and provide additional advice on protecting your vehicle including installing a wheel lock. They might be able to give you advice on where to buy an additional key.
It is important to check your bags and pockets thoroughly before calling your insurance company. It's easy to lose keys if you drop it down somewhere or if you reach inside your bag to grab something and you knock your keys out of it. If you've searched everywhere and aren't able to locate keys, it's time to call your insurance company.
The decision to file an insurance claim after the loss of a car key is based on the type of key you own and the deductible you have. The majority of older mechanical car keys are inexpensive and can be replaced by a locksmith for the cost of less than the insurance deductible. Modern keys, however, are more costly and require to be purchased directly from the dealer or manufacturer. In some instances the purchase of a new car key may exceed your deductible.
It is also important to be aware that insurance companies may conduct a credit check to determine if fraud is possible. This can lead to your claim being denied or scrutinized here and that's why it's crucial to report the theft of your keys as soon as possible.
Find a new set keys
It is essential to remain in a state of calm and plan what are going to do when you lose your car keys. There are many options to obtain new keys. There are many options that are less expensive than you think. You can also use Bluetooth key trackers to keep your keys secure and easily accessible. This is a great choice for those who lose their car keys frequently. These devices can be found on the internet or in a lot of electronic stores.
The first thing to do is determine the type of key you own. If you have an old traditional or mechanical key you can easily replace it by locksmith. These types of keys don't have any special features or chips and can only be used to lock and unlock the vehicle. You may need to visit an auto locksmith or dealer to replace the transponder, which is a key that is more advanced and usually installed in the key fob.
In the United States, most vehicles produced after 1990 are fitted with a chip in the key that is linked to the computer in the vehicle. This means that you'll require the VIN number for your car in order to get a new key. A dealership could make keys for your vehicle however the cost may be higher than going to a locksmith.
Regardless of what type of car key you own regardless of the type, you should always have a spare in case you lose one. This way, you will be able to quickly get back on the road without waiting for a locksmith to arrive. Additionally, you'll be in a position to not have to pay for a tow or call for roadside assistance.
It is essential to look through the pockets of your clothes before heading out and also to look in places where that you don't typically look for a key for example, in your shoes if you're wearing them or in the fridge if have been drinking some beer. You could also leave a spare key with an individual from your family or a trusted friend. If you want to keep your car keys secure and easily accessible Consider using a Bluetooth tracker.
Get your car repaired
You have a few options if your car keys are stolen. You can make an insurance claim to cover the cost of a new key fob and have your car locks replaced in the event that you don't have a spare or you can buy an alternative key from hardware stores for less than what it would cost you to file an insurance claim.
Based on the model of your car and whether it has an electronic key fob or standard turn-key ignition, it is possible that you will have to visit your dealer or auto dealership to get a replacement. The dealer will likely need to purchase a new key chip and then pair it with your vehicle, which could be quite expensive. However your roadside assistance policy may pay for towing the car to a dealership or service shop that could make an entirely new key, as per Reina.
Be cautious when dealing with locksmiths since there are scammers that will try to overcharge you for services that your car insurance or dealer already covers. Some locksmiths have also been caught using "key phishing," a technique where they fool the owner into thinking that their car manufacturer sent them a message requesting them to reset their codes. These scams can be tricky to spot, but you can watch out for them by only entering your code on the official website of your car manufacturer or app.
Check with your home insurance provider to see if there is any additional coverage available for keys that are lost in the car. American Family's home insurance for example, provides coverage for dwelling keys and garage door openers without a cost-sharing. This coverage isn't available for all insurers however it's worth a look to see if this coverage is available by your current provider or whether you might be eligible to add it to your insurance policy.