Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have changed with the advancement of automobiles. Today, most autos use electronic key fobs, and a few still use the old-fashioned turn-key ignition.
Losing keys can be a source of frustration and stressful. If someone steals your car keys and uses them for a period of time, it could leave you vulnerable to unauthorized entry.
1. Call the Police
Notifying the police is the first step you should do if you suspect that your car key has been taken. You can create an investigation report and they will let you know when the key is returned. You must report it promptly because if you put off, someone could use your vehicle without permission. This could result in fines from the city.
You can also receive tips from the police about how to keep your vehicle safe. They will also give you an identification number for crime that you can use to follow your case. This is important should you decide to submit an insurance claim to cover the theft.
If you have a spare car key ensure that you keep it on hand. The keys can be tucked away in places that are easy to reach like your purse or wallet or in the hands of family or friends. You can also check with the local dealership to determine if it can reprogram your original key fob.
Double-check all the places you believe your car key could be. If possible, ask your friends or family members to check as well. You can also call local libraries or restaurants to inquire if any keys have been discovered. It's common for people to forget where they left their keys. Therefore, it's crucial to verify the obvious places first before moving on to less obvious locations.
Even if you have a spare key, it's important to contact the police to report the theft. This will stop any person from trying to steal your car and might even help them find your key. The police might also be able to offer you advice on protecting your car, such as using a wheel lock.
In some instances you might find out from the police the keys to your car have been returned to the police station. Then, you can go to the police station to get it. If you have an electronic key fob on your vehicle, the process could be more complicated.
2. Call an expert locksmith
A stolen car key is a terribly painful and stressful experience. If it was stolen or discarded in another location, forgotten or taken by someone looking for an opportunity to take your car, it could be devastating. The first step is to call the police and let them know that your car keys are missing. This will allow them to keep a lookout for keys, and also help you regain control of your vehicle in the event that it is stolen.
The next step is to contact an experienced locksmith. The type of locksmith that you need to call depends on the type of car you have. If your car comes with a mechanical key and ignition the locksmith will replace the key you have. However, if your car is equipped with a key fob or is an older model that only utilizes a traditional turn-key system, the locksmith will need to have access to your vehicle's IMEI number (which is located on the key or on the dashboard display). The locksmith also needs to verify your ownership of the car by presenting proof such as a registration certificate or title.
In some instances the locksmith may be able to erase the "memory of the car" and block the key from working again in the future. This is usually a requirement to bring your vehicle to the dealer. In this instance you'll need to have a spare key, or be willing to pay a substantial amount for the service.
In the end, it's an excellent idea to review your insurance policy for home insurance to see if they cover the loss or theft of keys to your car. This coverage is provided in a variety of policies and can be a great way to cover the cost of replacement keys and lock changes.
Car keys stolen from cars are a common occurrence. If you drive with care and take the appropriate precautions, your car is less likely to be taken.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
It is crucial to report the car key theft to your insurance company. This will help to track down the thief and give you peace of mind. This will also help protect you against identity theft. Thieves will often search social media for detailed details about their victims, including address, work place and other personal information. Notifying a car key that was stolen as soon as you notice it missing can stop this from happening.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. However, exact conditions and terms vary so it's advisable to contact your provider to discuss the specifics of your coverage. 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 automaker to get a new set made. This involves removing the old keys and programming new ones for the vehicle. This can be costly and cost between $200 and $500 per key, depending on the type of key.
The thieves might try to drive the car after taking the keys. This can lead to expensive damages, including broken windows and doors. The thief may also be fined for driving without a permit or violate traffic laws. If you report the loss of your keys at an early stage, your insurance company will cover any damages resulting from this crime.
If you've reported the loss of your car keys, it's important to verify that they are missing. This will help you avoid making a false claim and being charged a fee. Start by searching every bag, pocket and other place where you normally keep your keys. Then, take a walk through your day and think about what you could have done that might have led to them being lost. For instance, did you, put them on the table in your car after you returned from work? Did you accidentally drop them when you reached into your purse to get your phone?
It's a good idea notify the police if discover your keys. This will stop the thief from using 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. Every 32 seconds it costs Americans more than $8 billion annually. Thankfully, modern cars come with advanced security features that make it very difficult for thieves to steal them. However, older vehicles and those without keyless entry still need extra security. To protect your car from theft, think about purchasing a steering wheel lock or brake and tire lock. These locks are simple to install and make it difficult to drive away your car.
It is crucial to report the theft of your car keys to police immediately. This will allow them to find the person responsible and possibly recover your vehicle. The police will provide you with the number of the crime which your insurance company can read more use to investigate the theft.
You can also visit the dealership for your vehicle's manufacturer and have a new set of keys made. You will have to scan your current keys and program the new ones using the car's computer. This procedure could take a few days, and can cost you money.
In addition to the cost of the new key, you will need to pay for towing as well as any damage caused by the theft when he steals your car. Keep your car in an area that is well-lit and located in a safe parking area. Keep your keys in a secure place and do not put them in the ignition.
The OBD port is located usually under the dashboard. This is one method that thieves steal modern cars. The thieves could use this information to get the code for the key fob, and then start the vehicle. This is called "relay theft." You can avoid it by installing an OBD portlock or parking in a secure location with cameras and security.
You can also try to stop your car keys from being taken by storing them in a secure pouch. These pouches block the signal that thieves are able to amplify using equipment referred to "relay transmitters." You could also purchase the device referred to as a "relay-deactivator" which you can connect to your vehicle's OBD port in order to block a stolen car key.