Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have evolved along with the development of automobiles. Today, most autos use electronic keys, but some still use the traditional turn-key ignition.
Losing your car keys can be stressful and frustrating. If someone discovers your car keys and then uses them for a long period of time, it could make you vulnerable to unauthorised entry.
1. Contact the police
The first thing you need to do if you suspect that your car key has been stolen is to call the police. You can make a police report, and they will let you know when someone returns your key. It is important to act quickly because if you wait you could let someone else use your car without your permission. This could lead to penalties from the municipality.
The police may also be able to give you tips about keeping your vehicle safe and secure. You will also receive an incident reference number that you can use to track the investigation. This is important in the event that you decide to make an insurance claim for the theft.
If you have an extra car key, ensure that you keep it with you. These keys can be hidden in places accessible to you, such as your purse or wallet, or in the hands of family or friends. You can also inquire with your local dealership to see whether they can reprogram your original key fob.
Double-check every place you think your car key could be. Request family members or friends to check too if possible. You can also contact local restaurants or libraries and ask if any keys have been discovered. A lot of people forget where they've put their keys, so it's essential to double-check the obvious places before exploring other locations.
Even if you've got an extra key, it is still worth calling police to report a theft. This will stop anyone from trying your car, and could assist them in finding your key. The police might provide suggestions on how to safeguard your vehicle, which includes the use of a wheel lock.
In some cases, you may be able learn from the police that your car keys have been returned to an officer station. Then, you can go to the police station and get it. The process could be more difficult if you have a modern vehicle that uses an electronic key fob.
2. Contact a locksmith
A stolen car key is a terribly frustrating and stressful experience. It doesn't matter whether it was stolen or lost, or left somewhere else. The first step is to call the police and let them know that your car keys are missing. This will allow them to keep a lookout for the key, and help you get control of your vehicle in the event that it is stolen.
Next, you'll want to call a locksmith. The type of locksmith you'll need to call will depend on the model of car you have. If your car is equipped with mechanical keys that are standard and ignition system, the locksmith will simply replace the key you have. If, however, your vehicle has a key fob, or is an older model that only uses a traditional turn-key ignition the locksmith will have to be able to access the vehicle's IMEI number (which can be found on the key or on the dashboard display). They must also be able verify that you are the owner of the vehicle through proof such as your registration or title.
In certain situations the locksmith may be able to erase the "memory of the car" and prevent the key from working again in the future. However, this will usually require you to bring the vehicle to the dealership in order to do so. In this scenario, you'll need to either have a spare key, or be prepared to pay a large amount for the service.
Check your home insurance policy to see if it covers car key theft and loss. Many policies do include this protection and can be a very useful option to cover the check here cost of replacement keys for your car and lock replacements.
Keys stolen from cars are a common occurrence. If you drive with care and take the necessary security measures, your car is less likely to be taken.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
It is crucial to report the car key theft to your insurance company. This will help you track the perpetrator, and give peace of mind. It also helps protect against identity theft. The thieves will search social media sites for detailed information about their victims. This includes the address, work place and other personal information. Reporting a missing car key immediately can prevent this.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. The specific terms and conditions of the policy can differ, so you should contact your insurance company to discuss your insurance coverage. Some companies might offer additional benefits, like free replacements or rental car insurance.
You'll have to visit your automaker or dealer to order a replacement set if your car keys are missing from the ignition. This involves removing the keys that are in use and programming the new keys to the vehicle. Based on the type of keys used, this could be costly and can cost between $200 and $500 per key.
The thieves may try to drive the car after stealing keys. This can result in costly damage, like broken windows and doors. It is also possible that the thief will be penalized for driving without a permit or for violating traffic laws. Your insurance company will cover any damage caused by the theft If you report it in time.
It's important that you verify that the keys are missing after reporting their loss. This will help you avoid making false claims and getting charged extra. Start by searching every bag, pocket and other places where you typically keep your keys. After that, look back and reflect on your day and what you could have done to cause the keys to disappear. For instance, did you put them on the table in your car after getting home from work? Or did you accidentally 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 thieves from using your stolen keys to gain access to other vehicles and commit more criminal acts.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Car theft is a massive problem. It occurs every 32 seconds and costs Americans more than $8 billion each year. Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated security features, making it difficult for thieves steal them. However, older vehicles and those that do not have keyless entry still need extra security. To guard your car from theft, consider getting a steering wheel lock or brake and tire lock. These locks are simple to install and will make it difficult for a thief to drive your car away.
If your car keys are stolen, it's important to report them immediately to the police immediately. This will assist them in tracking the perpetrator and, hopefully, recover your vehicle. The police will provide you with the number of the crime which your insurance company can use to investigate the theft.
You can also go to the dealership of your car's manufacturer and have new key fobs created. You will need to have the existing keys scanned and the new ones will need to be programmed with your vehicle's computer. This can take a few days and is costly.
You will also have to be responsible for any damage caused by the criminal as he takes off with your car. It's important to ensure that your car is in a secure parking spot and park in areas that are well-lit. Keep your keys in a safe place and never put them in the ignition.
One technique used by thieves to steal cars of the present is to read the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the OBD port typically located beneath the dashboard. The criminals are able to use this information in order to obtain the code for the key fob, and then start the vehicle. This is referred to as "relay theft." To prevent this, you can install an OBD port lock or park in a secure parking space with cameras and guards.
You can also prevent your car keys from being taken by storing keys in a secure bag. These pouches block signals that thieves make use of to amplify their signal using devices referred to as "relay transmitters." You can also buy an item known as a "relay-deactivator" which you can connect to your vehicle's OBD port to block the car key that was stolen.