Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have changed due to the advances in automobiles. Today, most cars use electronic keys, but some still have the traditional turn-key ignition.
Losing your car keys can be a stressful and difficult. If someone finds your keys to your car and uses them for a long period of time, it can make you vulnerable to unauthorised entry.
1. Call the police
The first thing you should do if you suspect that your car key has been stolen is to call the police. They can assist you with the creation of reports and notify you whether they have found your key or if someone gives it back. You should do this immediately, as if you wait, someone could use your vehicle without permission. This could lead to penalties from the city.
You could also receive tips from the police about how to keep your car safe. You'll also get an identification code for crime that you can use to trace the case. This is important should you decide to make an insurance claim for the theft.
Always keep your spare car keys on hand. Sometimes, keys are kept in easily accessible places, such as your wallet or purse or they might be with friends or family members. It's also worth talking to your local car dealership to determine if they are able to reprogram the key fob that came with the car and give you a new one.
Check all the places you think your car key might be. If possible, ask friends or family members to check too. You can also call local libraries or restaurants to see if they have found any keys that were lost. It's common for people to forget where they left their keys. Therefore, it's crucial to verify the obvious areas prior to moving on to less obvious ones.
Even if you've got an extra key, it is still important to contact the police to report an incident of theft. This will deter anyone from attempting to steal your car and could assist them in locating your key before they do. The police may also be able to give you advice about protecting your car, such as having a lock on your wheel.
In some instances you might find out from the police your car keys have been returned to the police station. Then, you can go to the police station and get it. If you have electronic keys on your vehicle, the process may be more complex.
2. Contact a locksmith
A car key stolen can be an incredibly painful and stressful experience. If it was stolen or left in a different location and neglected, or taken by someone looking for a way to steal your car, it can be a devastating experience. The first step is to contact the police and let them know that your keys to your car are missing. This will enable them to keep an eye out for keys, and also help you get control of your vehicle if it is stolen.
The next step is to contact an experienced locksmith. The type of locksmith you'll require will depend on the type of vehicle you own. If your car is equipped with mechanical keys that are standard and ignition system, the locksmith will simply replace your existing key. If your car is older and has traditional turn key ignition, or it has a keyfob the locksmith needs to have the IMEI number of your vehicle (which can be found on the key or dashboard display). The locksmith will also need to verify that you own the car by presenting evidence like a registration or title.
In some instances the locksmith might be able to erase the "memory of the car" and prevent the key from working again in the future. However, this will typically require you to bring your vehicle to the dealership for the purpose of doing so. You'll need a spare or be willing to pay a significant amount of money for this service.
Lastly, it is recommended to look over your insurance policy for home insurance to see if they cover car key loss and theft. A lot of policies include this protection, and it can be a very useful method to cover the cost of replacement keys for your car and lock changes.
Stolen keys to cars are not uncommon. If you are a diligent driver and take the appropriate precautions there is a lower chance that your car will be stolen.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
It is crucial to report the key theft to your insurance company. This will help you track the perpetrator, and give peace of mind. It also protects you from identity theft. Thieves often browse social media to find detailed information about their victims, including address, work place and other personal information. Notifying a car key that was stolen immediately you notice it is missing can prevent this from happening.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. However, exact conditions and terms vary so it's advisable to contact your provider and discuss the details of your insurance. Certain companies offer additional benefits, such as rental insurance for cars or free replacements.
If the keys to your car are not in the ignition, you will need to visit your dealer or the automaker to have a new set made. This will require deleting the old keys and programming new ones for the vehicle. Depending on the type of keys you have, it could be costly and can cost between $200 and $500 per key.
The thieves may try to drive the car after taking keys. This can lead to expensive damage, such as damaged doors and windows. The burglar could also be fined for driving without a license or in violation of traffic laws. If you report the theft of your keys at an early stage your insurance company will pay for any damages caused by this crime.
It's important that you verify that the keys are missing after submitting the loss report. This will help you avoid creating a false report and getting hit with extra charges. Start by searching your purses, pockets and other places where you keep your keys. Then, go back and think about your day and what you might have done to cause the keys to disappear. For instance, did it happen that you put them on the table in your car after getting home from work? Or did you accidentally check here drop them while you reached in your purse to take out your phone?
It is a good idea to call the police if you discover your keys. This will stop the thief from using your stolen keys to access other vehicles and to commit further crimes.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Car theft is a massive issue. Every 32 seconds, it costs Americans more than $8 billion per year. Modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features, making it difficult to steal them. However, older cars or those with no keyless entry still need extra protection. To safeguard your vehicle from theft, consider getting a steering wheel lock or tire lock and brake lock. These devices are easy to install and make it impossible for a thief to drive your vehicle away.
It is imperative to report the theft of your car keys to police immediately. This will enable them to locate the culprit and possibly recover your vehicle. The police will provide you with a a crime number which your insurance company can use to investigate the theft.
You can also visit the dealership of your vehicle's manufacturer to have new key fobs created. You'll need to scan your keys and then program your new ones on the vehicle's computer. This process may take several days, and will cost you money.
In addition to the cost of a new key, you'll be required to pay for towing and any damages caused by the thief who stole your car. Make sure your car is in a location that is well-lit and in a secure parking lot. Also, keep your keys in a secure place and don't leave them in the ignition.
One method that thieves use to steal cars of the present is by reading the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the OBD port, which is usually located under the dashboard. They can then use this information to find the code on your key fob and use it to start the vehicle. This is referred to as "relay theft." You can prevent it by installing an OBD portlock or parking in a secure location with security cameras and security.
You can also try to stop your car keys from being stolen by keeping them in a screened pouch. These pouches stop the signal that thieves can amplify with equipment called "relay transmitters." You can also purchase a device called"relay deactivator. "relay deactivator" that can be plugged into your car's OBD port to deactivate keys that have been stolen.