Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have evolved with the advancement of automobiles. Today, most cars use electronic keys, but certain models still use the traditional turn-key ignition.
Losing your keys can be frustrating and stressful. It also leaves your vehicle vulnerable to unauthorized access if a person finds it and uses it for a period of time.
1. Call the police
Contacting the police is the first step you need to do if you suspect that your car key has been taken. They can assist you with the creation of reports and let you know when they locate your key or if someone turns it in. You should do this promptly because if you put off you could allow someone to use your vehicle without authorization. This could lead to fines from the city.
The police may also be able to give you some tips on how to keep your car safe and secure. They will also provide you with the crime reference number you can use to follow your case. This is essential if would like to submit a claim to your insurance company to cover the theft.
If you have a spare car key make sure that you have it with you. Sometimes, keys are kept in accessible places, such as your wallet or purse, or they might be with family members or friends members. You can also contact your local dealership to see whether they can reprogram your original key fob.
Check for any possible places where you might have lost your car key. If possible, ask friends or family members to check too. You can also contact local libraries or restaurants and inquire if keys have been discovered. It is common for people to forget where they placed their keys. Therefore, it is important to check the obvious places first before proceeding to less obvious ones.
Even if you have an extra key, it is still important to contact the police to report an incident of theft. This will stop anyone from attempting to steal your car, and could assist them in finding your key. The police may also offer suggestions on how to safeguard your vehicle, which includes using a lock for your wheel.
In certain cases the police might be able to inform you that your car key has been turned in at a police station. You can then go to the police station to take it back. The process could be more difficult if you have modern vehicles that have an electronic key fob.
2. Call a locksmith
A stolen car key is an incredibly stressful and frustrating experience. It doesn't matter whether it was stolen or lost, it's just a matter of finding it in another location. Call the police to let them know your keys to your car have disappeared. This will help them keep a lookout for the key, and assist you get control of your car if it is stolen.
The next step is to contact an experienced locksmith. The type of locksmith you need to call depends on the kind of car you own. If your car is equipped with a standard, mechanical key and ignition system, then the locksmith will simply replace the key you have. If your vehicle is older and uses a traditional turn key ignition, or if it has a keyfob, the locksmith must have the IMEI number of your vehicle (which is usually displayed on the dashboard or in the key display). They will also need to be able verify that you are the owner of the vehicle using evidence like your registration or title.
In certain situations the locksmith might be able to erase the "memory of the car" and block the key from working again in the future. This will usually require you to bring your vehicle to the dealer. In this case you'll have to have a spare key, or be willing to pay a substantial amount for the service.
In the end, it's recommended to look over your insurance policy for home insurance to see if they cover car key loss and theft. Many policies do include this protection, and it can be a useful way to cover the costs of replacing car keys and lock changes.
Stolen keys to cars are not common. If you drive carefully and take the proper security measures, your car is less likely to be taken.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Reporting the theft of your car keys to your insurance provider is important. This will assist you in tracking the culprit and give you peace of mind. It also helps protect against identity theft. The thieves will search social media sites for detailed details about their victims. This includes address, workplace, and other personal details. Reporting a stolen car key as soon as you discover it missing could prevent this from happening.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. However, exact conditions and terms may differ so it's advisable to call your provider and discuss the details of your policy. Some companies might offer additional benefits, such as free replacements or rental car insurance.
If the keys to your car are not in the ignition, you'll need to visit your dealer or the automaker to have a new set made. This will mean deleting the old keys and programming new keys for your vehicle. Based on the type of keys used, this can be expensive and can cost between $200 and $500 per key.
Some thieves may attempt to drive your vehicle after they've taken your keys. This can lead to expensive damages, including broken windows and doors. It is also likely that the thief will be penalized for driving without a license or ignoring traffic laws. Your insurance company will cover any damages resulting from the theft If you report it in time.
It is crucial to confirm the keys are indeed missing after reporting their loss. This will prevent you from making a false claim and being charged extra. Start by searching your bag, pocket and other place where that you usually keep your keys. Then, take a walk through your day to think about what you did that could have resulted in them being lost. For instance, did you place them on the table in your car after coming home from work? Did you accidentally drop them when you reached into your purse to grab your phone?
It is a good idea to notify the police if discover your keys. This will stop the thief using the keys stolen to gain access to other vehicles and commit further criminal acts.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Car theft is a huge problem. It occurs every 32 seconds and costs Americans more than $8 billion every year. Thankfully, modern vehicles have advanced security features that make it difficult for thieves to steal them. Older cars and those with keyless entry need additional protection. Consider installing a steering lock, or tire and brake locks to protect your car against theft. These locks are simple to install and will make it difficult for thieves to drive your car away.
It is crucial to report the theft of your car keys to the police immediately. This will assist them in tracking down the thief and possibly recover your car. The police will provide you with the number of the crime which your insurance company can use to investigate the theft.
You can also visit the dealership for your car's manufacturer and have a new set of keys made. It is necessary to have your existing keys scanned, and the new ones will have to be programmed using check here your vehicle's computer. This can take a few days and will be expensive.
In addition to the cost of the new key, you will be required to pay for towing as well as any damage caused by the thief who stole your car. Make sure that your car is in a location which is well-lit, and in a safe parking area. Keep your keys in a secure place and do not put them in the ignition.
One method that thieves use to steal modern cars is to read the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the OBD port typically located under the dashboard. The criminals are able to use this information in order to unlock the code on the key fob, and start the car. This is referred to as "relay theft." You can avoid it by installing an OBD portlock or parking in a secure area with security cameras and guards.
You can also prevent your car keys from being stolen by storing them in a screened bag. These pouches will block the signal that thieves can amplify with devices referred to as "relay transmitters." You can purchase a gadget called a "relay deactivator" that can be plugged into your car's OBD port to block a stolen key.