What to Do If Your Car Keys Are Stolen
It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. It's crucial to keep calm and not panic.
First, retrace the steps you've taken. This will help to determine if your car keys were stolen or lost. Call your insurance company. You might be able to submit an insurance claim depending on the circumstances.
Report the theft to the police
The first thing you need to do if your car keys are stolen is to report it to the police. You will receive a crime reference code that can be used to identify your keys and track your vehicle. The police may also offer tips on protecting your vehicle, such as using the wheel lock.
The next step is to try and find the keys. Make sure you check every pocket, bag, and other places you might have them. Look for places that you may not typically look, such as under the seat or in your shoes. You can also utilize an app to locate your keys such as Tile or AirTag. These apps can ring your keys or display its last known location however only if your keys are within your phone's range.
If you have a conventional car key (think older keys that do not have fancy chips) then you can obtain a replacement from your local locksmith. If you have an electronic or remote-controlled key, you'll need visit the dealership. In this instance, it is worth checking your insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of a new key and lock.
The number of car thefts that happen because people leave their keys in the vehicle is increasing. It is crucial to ensure your keys are safe throughout the day. Thieves can use a device known as a relay attack to replicate the signal of the car's key fob and then wait for a accomplice to arrive with another piece of equipment that will open the vehicle. This is a typical method of taking cars from large cities where the thieves can access sophisticated equipment. Always keep a spare key other than inside your vehicle. It is also not a good idea to leave your insurance card or your license in your car, as these are important tools for identity thieves. If you do lose your keys, be sure to call your insurer and the police as fast as possible.
Contact your insurance company
If you have comprehensive car insurance it is essential to inform your insurance company as soon as possible about the lost keys. This will help ensure your safety and also stop other people from using your vehicle. Most insurance policies will cover the cost of a car dealer or locksmith to make new keys.
It's a stressful experience to lose your keys. The last thing you want to occur is that you are the one who uses keys! It's a good idea to contact your local locksmith as soon as you can and ask them to make an identical key for you. They can also program the replacement keys so that the key you stole will not work anymore.
It is always recommended to report your keys stolen as soon as possible to the police, especially if it was an electronic key or a standard key ignition that is turned on. Police can provide you with a crime number and give you additional advice on how to keep your car safe, such as installing wheel locks. They might also offer advice on where to buy an additional key.
Before contacting your insurer before contacting your insurer, make sure that you've thoroughly inspected your pockets and bags for website the keys. It's easy to lose keys if you drop it down somewhere or if you reach into your bag to grab something and take your keys from it. If you've searched everywhere and you're still unable to find keys, it's time to contact your insurance company.
The decision of whether to make an insurance claim after losing a car key depends on the type of key you have and the amount of your deductible. The majority of older mechanical keys aren't expensive and can be replaced by a locksmith at a cost less than the insurance deductible. However, newer keys are generally more expensive and should be purchased from the dealer or manufacturer. In some instances the cost of a new key may exceed your deductible.
It is also important to be aware that insurance companies might run a credit check to determine if fraud is possible. This could lead to your claim being denied or even being investigated. It is therefore crucial to immediately report your keys as soon when you notice them.
Purchase a new set of keys
It is crucial to remain in a state of calm and plan what will do next when you lose your car key. There are many options to obtain new keys. There are many options that are less expensive than you think. You can also make use of Bluetooth key trackers to ensure that your keys are safe and easily accessible. This is a great solution for those who lose their car keys often. These devices are available online or in most electronics stores.
The first step is to determine what kind of key you own. If you have a conventional or mechanical key it is easy to change it out with one from an locksmith or a hardware store. The keys aren't equipped with any special features, and can only be used to lock or unlock your vehicle. If you own transponder keys, which are a more advanced type of key, which is usually found inside the key fob or chain, you might need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer to obtain an alternative.
The majority of vehicles in the United States that are manufactured after 1990 include a chip in the keys that is connected to the computer in the vehicle. You will require the VIN number of your vehicle to get a new key. A dealership can make keys for your car, but the cost may be higher than visiting a locksmith.
Whatever kind of key you have it is an excellent idea to have an extra key in case of need. In this way, you'll be able to get back on the road without waiting for a locksmith to arrive. In addition, you will be able to avoid having to pay for towing or call for roadside assistance.
It is essential to look through the pockets of all your clothes before you leave and to check places you wouldn't normally look for a key for example, in your shoes if you're wearing them, or in the fridge if you have had a drink. You could also leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member, and you can even consider using a Bluetooth key tracker to keep your car keys safe and easy to locate.
Get your car repaired
There are several ways to go about it if keys to your car are stolen. You could make an insurance claim to cover the cost of a new key fob and have your car's locks changed when you don't have a spare, or you can buy the new key from hardware stores for less than it would cost to file an insurance claim.
Depending on the type of vehicle and whether it comes with an electronic key fob or standard turn-key ignition, it is possible that you will have to visit your dealer or auto dealership to purchase an alternative. Dealers may have to purchase the key chip and then pair it with your vehicle. This can be costly. According to Reina, your roadside coverage could cover the cost of transporting your vehicle to a dealer or service shop where a new key can be made.
You must be cautious when dealing with locksmiths, as there are scam artists who try to charge you for services that your car insurance or dealership already covers. Some locksmiths have also been known to use "key phishing," a technique where they trick the owner into thinking that their car's manufacturer sent them a request asking the reset of their code. These scams are difficult to detect, but you can avoid them by entering your code only on the official website or app of the car manufacturer.
While you're there, you should check with your home insurance company to see if they have any additional insurance for lost car keys. American Family's home insurance for instance, covers keys to your garage and for dwelling openers without charging a minimum deductible. This coverage isn't available from all insurers. It's worth checking if your current provider has it, or if it's possible to add it to your existing policy.