What to Do If Your Car Keys Are Stolen
If you lose your car keys, it can be very frustrating. But, it's essential to remain calm and not get stressed.
Then, try retracing your steps. This will help to determine if your car keys are actually stolen or just lost. Next, call your insurance company. You may be eligible to file a claim based on the circumstances.
Inform the police about the theft
Reporting the theft of your car keys to the police is the first step. You will receive a crime reference code that can be used to identify your keys and track your vehicle. The police might also be able to provide suggestions on how to protect your vehicle, including using an ignition lock for your wheel.
The next step is to try and locate the keys. Make sure you check every bag, pocket and other places that you could have them. Also, make sure to check places you would not typically look, such as underneath the seat or in your shoes. You can also use an application to locate your keys, such as Tile or AirTag. These apps can ring your keys or show its last known location but only if the keys are within the range of your phone's.
If you own a traditional car key (think older keys without any fancy chips) then you can find a replacement at the local locksmith. However, if you have an electronic key or remote start, then you'll need to go to the dealership to purchase. It is a good idea to see if your insurance covers the cost of replacing a lock and key.
The number of car thefts that happen because people leave their keys in their car is increasing. It is crucial to ensure your keys are safe all the time. The thieves can use the device, known as a relay attack that copies the signal from the keyfob on the car's. They then wait for a accomplice to arrive with an equipment to open the vehicle. This is a typical method of stealing cars in large cities where thieves are able to access sophisticated equipment. Always leave a spare set of keys somewhere else than inside your car. You should also never leave your insurance documents or license in your car, as these are essential tools for identity thieves. If you lose your keys, call your insurance provider and the police immediately.
Contact your insurance company
If you're a comprehensive vehicle insurance policy owner it is crucial to inform your company immediately about the keys that are missing. This will help ensure your safety and also stop others from using your car. Most policies will reimburse the cost of a car locksmith or dealer to create new keys.
While it is very stressful to lose your car keys and car keys, the most important thing you want is for someone else to use the keys! It is a good idea to contact your local locksmith as soon as you can and request an identical key for you. They can also program the keys to ensure that the key you stole will not work anymore.
Reporting the theft of your keys to the police as soon as you can is always an ideal idea, particularly when they are a smart key. Police can provide you with a crime number and provide further advice on how to keep your car safe, such as installing wheel locks. They may be able to give you information on where to purchase an additional key.
Before you contact your insurance company it is important to ensure that you've thoroughly inspected your bags and pockets for the keys. It's easy to lose a key if you put it somewhere else or you reach in your bag to grab something only to you knock your keys out of it. If you've tried everything and you're still unable to find them, it's probably time to call your insurance company.
The decision on whether to file an insurance claim after losing a car keys depends on the type of key you own and the amount of your deductible. Most old-style mechanical keys are not expensive and can be repaired at locksmiths for less than your deductible. However, modern keys are usually more expensive and must be ordered from the manufacturer or dealership. In some cases the purchase of a new car key may exceed your deductible.
It's also important to note that if you're in serious debt an insurance company may run a credit check to determine if there's the possibility of fraud. This could result in your claim being denied or even being investigated. It is therefore crucial to report your keys as soon as you discover them.
Find a new set keys
It is important to stay calm and plan what you will do next when you lose your car key. There are many ways to obtain a new set of keys, and the majority options are less expensive than you might expect. You can also utilize a Bluetooth key tracker to keep your car keys secure and easily accessible. This is a great option in case you lose your car keys frequently. These devices are available online or in most electronics stores.
The first step is to determine the type of key you have. If you have an older traditional or mechanical key you can easily replace it by a locksmith. These keys do not contain any special features or chips, and are only used to lock and unlock the vehicle. If you own transponder keys, which are one of the more advanced types of key that is usually found inside the key fob or key chain, you may need to go to an auto locksmith or the dealer to purchase a replacement.
The majority of cars in the United States that are manufactured after 1990 include a chip in their keys that connects to the computer of the vehicle. This means that you'll require the VIN number for your vehicle to get a new key. A dealership could make keys for your vehicle however, the cost could be higher than going to locksmith.
Regardless of what type of car key you own, you should always have a spare in case you lose one. This way, you will be able to immediately get back on the road without having to wait for a locksmith's arrival. You will also be able to avoid paying for tows and calling roadside assistance.
Check your pockets and other places you might not normally search for keys, like in your shoes if they are on or in the refrigerator in the event that you've had a drink. You can 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 easy to locate you might want to consider a Bluetooth tracker.
Get your car repaired
There are a variety of options if your car keys are stolen. You can file an insurance claim to pay for your new key fob, and also have your locks changed if don't have an extra. Or you can get keys from a hardware shop for a fraction of the price it would cost to file an claim.
You may have to visit your dealer to change the key, depending on whether your vehicle is equipped with an electronic fob or a conventional key ignition. Dealers may have to order an electronic key chip and link it to your vehicle. This can be costly. However your roadside assistance insurance may pay for towing your vehicle to a dealer or service shop that can create the new key, car stolen keys inside insurance as per Reina.
Locksmiths are scammers who will overcharge for services that are already covered by your auto insurance. Some locksmiths have also been known to use "key phishing," a technique where they fool the owner into thinking that their car manufacturer has sent them a message asking for them to reset their code. These scams can be very difficult to identify, but you can look for them by entering your code through the website of the manufacturer or app.
Check with your home insurer to see if there is any additional coverage available for lost car keys. American Family, for instance offers protection for garage door openers as well as dwelling keys without a cost-sharing. This coverage isn't available for all insurance companies, but it's worth checking to see if it's offered at your current provider or whether you might be eligible to add it to your insurance policy.