Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have changed due to the advances in automobiles. Nowadays, the majority of automobiles have electronic key fobs, and a few still use the traditional turn-key ignition.
Losing your keys can be frustrating and stressful. It can also leave your vehicle vulnerable to unauthorized access if someone finds it and then uses it for a long time.
1. Call the police
The first thing you should do if your car keys is stolen is to notify the police. They can assist you with the creation of an investigation and will inform you when they locate your key or is willing to surrender it. It is recommended to take action immediately since if you delay, someone else might use your vehicle without permission. This can result in fines from the city.
The police may also be able to offer you tips about keeping your car safe and secure. You will also receive a crime reference code which can be used to track the case. This is important if you decide to submit an insurance claim to cover the theft.
If you have a spare car key ensure that you have it with you. The keys can be tucked away in places that are easy to access like your wallet or purse, or in the hands of family or friends. It's also worth checking with your local dealership for cars to determine if they are able to reprogram your key fob that came with the car and give you an alternative.
Double-check any possible locations in which you may have lost your car keys. Request family members or friends to check too if possible. You could also contact local restaurants or libraries to see if they've found any keys that were lost. It's common for people to forget where they left their keys. Therefore, it is important to check the obvious locations prior to moving on to less obvious locations.
Even if you have spare keys, it's still worth calling the police to inform them of the theft. This will deter anyone from attempting to steal your car and may help them locate your key before they do. The police might also offer tips on how to secure your vehicle, such as the use of a wheel lock.
In some cases the police may be able to inform you that your car's key has been turned in at the police station. You can then pick up your car key at the police station. If you have an electronic key fob on your vehicle, the process can be more complicated.
2. Contact a locksmith
A car key that was stolen can be an incredibly frustrating and stressful experience. Whether it was lost, left somewhere else and forgotten or taken by someone looking for a way to steal your car, it can be a devastating experience. Contact the police to inform them know that your car keys have gone missing. This will allow them to keep an eye out for the key, and help you regain control of your vehicle in the event that it is stolen.
The next step is to call a professional locksmith. The type of locksmith that you'll need to contact is contingent on the model of car you own. If your car is equipped with a mechanical key and ignition the locksmith will replace your current key. However, if your vehicle has a key fob, or is an older model that only utilizes a traditional turn-key system the locksmith will have to have access to your vehicle's IMEI number (which is located on the back of the key or the dashboard display). They will also need to be able verify that you are the owner of the vehicle through proof like your registration or title.
In some cases, the locksmith may be able to erase the "memory of the car" and block the key from working in the future. However, this would typically require you to bring your vehicle to the dealership to be able to do this. You'll either need a spare or be willing to pay a significant amount of money for this service.
In the end, stolen keys it's a good idea to check your insurance policy for home insurance to determine if they cover car keys being stolen or lost. This coverage is included in many policies, and is an excellent way to cover the cost of replacement keys and lock replacements.
Keys stolen from cars are not uncommon. If you are a diligent driver and take the right precautions there is a lower chance that your car will be stolen.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
It is crucial to report the key theft to your insurance company. This will help you track down the thief and provide peace of mind. It also protects you from identity theft. The criminals will look through social media sites for detailed information about their victims. This includes address, workplace, and other personal details. Notifying a car key that was stolen immediately you notice it missing can stop this from happening.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. The specific terms and conditions of the policy can differ so it is recommended to contact your insurance provider to discuss your insurance coverage. Some companies offer extra benefits like rental insurance for cars or free replacements.
If the keys to your car are not in the ignition, you'll need to visit your dealer or automaker to get a brand new set made. This involves removing the keys that are in use and programming the new ones to the vehicle. This could be costly and can cost between $200 and $500 per key, based on the type.
Some thieves may try to drive your vehicle after they've taken your keys. This could cause costly damage such as broken windows and doors. The thief may be penalized for driving without a permit or violate traffic laws. If you report the theft of your keys at a young stage the insurance company will pay for any damages resulting from this crime.
It's important that you verify that the keys are missing after reporting their loss. This will stop you from making a false claim and being charged an additional fee. Start by searching every bag, pocket and other place where that you usually keep your keys. Then, go back and reflect on your day and what you may have done that caused the keys to disappear. For instance, did you put them on the table in your car when you got home from work? Did you accidentally drop them when you went to your purse to retrieve your phone?
It's a good idea notify the police if find your keys. This will stop the thief from using your stolen keys to gain access to other vehicles and commit more crimes.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Theft of vehicles is a major problem. It occurs every 32 seconds and costs Americans more than $8 billion every year. Modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features, making it difficult for thieves to steal them. However, older cars and those without keyless entry require additional security. Think about a steering lock or tire lock with brakes to safeguard your vehicle from theft. These locks are simple to install and make it impossible to drive away your car.
If your car keys have been stolen, it's important to report it immediately to police immediately. This will enable them to locate the culprit and possibly recover your vehicle. The police will also provide you with a the crime reference number which can be used by your insurance company to investigate the theft.
You can also go to the dealership of your car's manufacturer to have new key fobs created. You'll have to scan your keys and program the new ones using the computer in your vehicle. This process could take a few days and can be costly.
In addition to the cost of the new key, you will need to pay for towing and any damage caused by the theft when he steals your car. Keep your car in a location that is well-lit and in a safe parking area. Keep your keys in a safe location and don't leave them in the ignition.
One method that thieves use to steal modern vehicles is by reading the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the OBD port which is typically located beneath the dashboard. The thieves can use this information to get the code for the key fob, and begin the vehicle. This is referred to as "relay theft." To stop this from happening, you should install an OBD port lock or park in a secure parking area with cameras and security.
You can also try to keep your keys from being taken by storing them in a screened pouch. The pouches will block the signal thieves can amplify with devices referred to as "relay transmitters." You can also purchase a device called a "relay deactivator" that you can plug into your car's OBD port to deactivate the key that was stolen.