What to Do If Your Car Keys Are Stolen
It can be very frustrating to lose your car keys. But, it's crucial to be calm and not get stressed.
Then, go back to the steps you've taken. This will help you determine if your car keys have been stolen or simply lost. The next step is to contact your insurance company. You may be able to make an insurance claim depending on the situation.
Report the theft to the police
The report of the theft of your car keys to the police is the first step. This will give you an identity number which can be used to trace the keys and your vehicle. The police can also provide tips on how to safeguard your vehicle, for example by using a lock on your wheel.
The next step is to try and find the keys. Make sure you check every bag, pocket, and other places that you could have keys. Check places you might not typically look, such as under the seat or inside your shoes. You can also use an app to locate your keys. Examples include Tile or AirTag. These apps can ring the keys or show its last known location however only if your keys are within the range of your phone's.
If you have an older key that doesn't have any fancy chips, you can easily replace it at the local locksmith. If you have a remote start or smart key, you'll need visit the dealership. It is important to see if your insurance covers the cost of replacing a lock and key.
Car thefts caused by people leaving their keys inside are increasing, and it is essential to keep them safe at all times. The thieves can use a device called relay attack which copies the signal from the key fob of the car. They then wait for a accomplice to arrive with a piece of equipment to open the vehicle. This is a common way of stealing cars in large cities where thieves are able to access sophisticated equipment. Always keep a spare key somewhere outside of your car. Don't leave your insurance or license in your vehicle, as they are valuable tools to identity thieves. If you lose your keys, call your insurance company and the police immediately.
Contact your insurance company
If you have comprehensive insurance on your car it is essential to inform your insurance company as soon as possible about the keys missing. This will keep you safe and stop other people from using your vehicle. Most policies will reimburse the cost of a dealer or locksmith to make new keys.
It's a stressful experience to lose your keys. The last thing you want to happen is that someone else uses them! Contact your local locksmith and ask them to create a duplicate key. They'll also be capable of programming the new key to ensure that the stolen key no longer functions.
Reporting your keys stolen to the police as quickly as you can is a good idea, especially when they are a smart key. Police can provide you with a crime number and provide further guidance on how to keep your vehicle safe, such as installing wheel locks. They might be able to offer information on where to purchase a replacement key.
You should examine your pockets and bags thoroughly before contacting your insurance company. It's easy to lose keys if you place it somewhere else or you reach in your bag to grab something and take your keys from it. If you've searched for a while and you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to call your insurance provider.
The decision to make an insurance claim for the loss of a car key will depend on the type of key and your deductible amount. The majority of mechanical keys aren't expensive and can be replaced by a locksmith for the cost of less than the insurance deductible. However, modern keys are usually more expensive and must be ordered from the dealer or manufacturer. In some instances, the price of a new key may exceed your limit on deductible.
You should also be aware that insurance companies may conduct a credit check to determine if fraud is possible. This can result in your claim being rejected, or even investigated. Therefore, it is crucial to notify your keys as quickly as you discover them.
Find a new set keys
When you lose your car keys, it's essential to stay calm and think about what you're going to do. There are many ways to obtain new keys. The majority of options are less expensive than you think. You can also make use of a Bluetooth key tracker to keep your car keys secure and easily accessible. This is particularly helpful when you lose your car keys often. You can find these types of devices online or at most electronics stores.
The first step is to identify the kind of key you have. If you have an old mechanical or traditional key, you can replace it easily by locksmith. These keys are not equipped with any extra features, and they can only be used to lock or unlock the vehicle. You may have to visit an auto locksmith or dealer to replace the transponder, which is a key that is more advanced and typically installed in the key fob.
In the United States, most vehicles made after 1990 are equipped with a chip within the key that connects to the vehicle's computers. You will need the VIN number of your vehicle to obtain a new key. A dealership can also make a new key for your car, but it could cost more than going to a locksmith.
Whatever kind of key you have it is a good idea to have an extra key in case of need. This way, you will be able to quickly get back on the road without having to wait for a locksmith to arrive. Additionally, you will be able to avoid paying for tows and call roadside assistance.
Examine your pockets and other places where you may not usually search for keys, such as 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 someone in your family or a trusted friend. If you're looking to keep your car keys safe and easily accessible Consider using a Bluetooth tracker.
Get your car repaired
There are several options when your car keys are stolen. You can make an insurance claim to cover the cost of a new key fob, and then have your car locks replaced if you do not have a spare or you can purchase an alternative key from a hardware store for much less than what it might cost to file an insurance claim.
It is possible to visit your dealer to change the key, based on whether your vehicle has an electronic fob or a traditional key ignition. Dealers may have to purchase the key chip and then pair it to your vehicle. This could be costly. According to Reina the roadside insurance could cover the cost of towing your car to a dealer or service shop where a new key will be made.
Locksmiths are scammers who charge too much for services that are already covered by your auto insurance. There are also those who have been caught using "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 are hard to spot, but you can stay clear of them by entering your code only via the official website or app of the manufacturer.
Check with your home insurance provider to find out if there's any additional insurance coverage available for lost car keys. American Family's home insurance, as check here an example, provides coverage for dwelling keys and garage door openers, without requiring a cost-sharing. This coverage isn't available for all insurance companies, but it's worth checking to see if it's offered by your current provider or if you're capable of adding it to your insurance policy.