Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have changed with the advancement in automobiles. Most autos today use electronic keys, but some have the traditional turn-key ignition.
Losing your keys to your car can be stressful and difficult. It could also make your vehicle vulnerable to unauthorized access if someone discovers it and then uses it for a period of time.
1. Contact the police
The first thing to do if you suspect that your car key has been stolen is to call the police. They can help you create reports and let you know whether they have found your key or turns it in. You must report it immediately because if you delay you could allow someone to use your vehicle without permission. This can lead to penalties from the municipality.
The police might also be able to give you some tips on how to keep your vehicle secure and safe. They will also provide you with a crime reference number that you can use to follow your case. This is important if you would like to make a claim with your insurance company in the event of theft.
If you have a spare car key, ensure that you keep it with you. These keys can be hidden in places accessible to you like your wallet or purse, or in the hands of family or friends. It is also worth contacting the local dealership for your car to determine if they are able to reprogram your original factory key fob and give you an alternative.
Double-check any possible locations where you might have lost your car keys. Ask friends or family members to verify the information if they are able. You can also call local restaurants or libraries and inquire if keys have been discovered. Many times, people forget where they've put their keys, making it important to double-check the obvious places before you start exploring other locations.
Even if you have an extra key, it's important to notify the police of a theft. This will stop any person from trying to steal your car and may assist them in finding your key. The police may also be able to offer you advice on protecting your car, such as using a wheel lock.
In some instances, the police might be able to inform you that your car key has been returned to a police station. You can then retrieve your car key at the police station. If you have electronic keys on your vehicle, the process may be more difficult.
2. Contact a locksmith
A car key that was stolen is a terribly frustrating and stressful experience. It doesn't matter if it was stolen or lost, it's just a matter of finding it in a different location. The first step is to contact the police and let them know that your keys to your car are missing. This will allow them to keep a lookout for keys, and also help you get back control of your car if it is stolen.
The next step is to contact a professional locksmith. The type of locksmith you'll require will depend on the kind of vehicle you own. If your vehicle is equipped with an ignition and key that is mechanical, the locksmith can simply replace your current key. However, if your car is equipped with a key fob or is an older model that only uses a traditional turn-key ignition the locksmith will need to access the vehicle's IMEI number (which can be found on the back of the key or the dashboard display). The locksmith also needs to verify your ownership of the car by presenting evidence like a registration or title.
In some cases 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 typically require you to bring the car to the dealer for the purpose of doing so. In this scenario, you'll need to either have a spare key, or be prepared to pay a significant amount for the service.
In the end, it's an excellent idea to review your home insurance policy to determine if it covers car key loss and theft. Many policies provide this type of coverage and can be a useful method to cover the cost of your replacement car keys and lock replacements.
Car keys stolen from cars are not uncommon. If you're a responsible driver and take all the necessary precautions, there is a much lower chance that your car is stolen.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
It is crucial to report the car key theft to your insurance company. This will assist you in tracking down the thief, and give peace of mind. It also helps protect you from identity theft. The thieves will search social media sites for specific information about their victims. This includes the address, work place as well as other personal details. Reporting missing car keys immediately can stop this from happening.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. However, the exact terms and conditions vary, so it's best to call your provider to discuss the specifics of your insurance. Some companies might offer additional benefits, like free replacements or coverage for rental cars.
If the keys to your car are not in the ignition, you will have to go to your dealer or the automaker to get a brand new set made. This involves removing the keys you have and reprogramming the new ones to the vehicle. This can be costly and ranges from $200 to $500 per key, depending on the type.
The thieves might try to drive the car after taking the keys. This can lead to expensive damage, such as damaged doors and windows. It's also likely that the person who stole your keys could be punished for driving without a permit or ignoring traffic laws. Your insurance company will take care of any damages caused by the theft if you report it early.
If you've reported the loss of your car keys, it's crucial to confirm that they are missing. This will ensure that you don't end up making a false claim and racking up additional costs. Begin by looking through every bag, pocket and other places where you normally keep your keys. After that, look back and reflect on your day and what you may have done that caused them to disappear. For example, did you put them on the table in your car after getting home from work? Did you accidentally drop them when you reached into your purse to get your phone?
If you find your car keys, it's a good idea to contact the police. This will stop the thief from being able to use your keys stolen to gain access to other vehicles and to commit further crimes.
4. Schedule an Inspection
The theft of vehicles is a huge problem. It occurs every 32 seconds and costs Americans over $8 billion a year. Fortunately, modern cars have advanced security features that make it very difficult for thieves to take them. Older vehicles and those with keyless entry need additional security. Think about a steering lock or brake and tire locks to safeguard your vehicle from theft. These locks are simple to install and make it difficult to take your car away.
It is imperative to inform the police about the theft of your car keys to police immediately. This will enable them to find the person responsible and hopefully return your vehicle. The police will provide you with a the number of the crime that your insurance company will use to investigate the theft.
You can also visit the dealership for your car's manufacturer and have a new set of keys made. You will need to have the existing keys scanned, and the new ones will have to be programmed using your vehicle's computer. This process can take several days and is costly.
You'll also have to be responsible for any damage caused by the thief who takes off with your car. It's important to keep your car in a secure parking spot and park in well-lit areas. Keep your keys in a secure location and don't leave keys in the ignition.
One method used by thieves to steal modern cars is to read the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the OBD port, which is usually located under the dashboard. The thieves can use this information to obtain the code for the key fob, and then start the car. This is known as "relay theft." You can read more avoid it by installing an OBD portlock or parking in a secure space with security cameras and security.
You can also keep your keys from being stolen by keeping keys in a pouch that is screened. The pouches will stop the signal that thieves can amplify with equipment referred to "relay transmitters." You can also purchase a device dubbed a "relay deactivator" that you can plug into your car's OBD port to deactivate keys that have been stolen.