Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have changed with the advancement of automobiles. Today, most cars use electronic key fobs, but some have the old fashioned turn-key ignition.
Losing your car keys can be a stressful and stressful. It also leaves your vehicle vulnerable to unauthorized access if someone discovers it and then uses it for a while.
1. Call the police
Notifying the police is the first thing you need to do if you suspect that your car keys have been stolen. They can help you create an investigation and will let you know if they find your car key or gives it back. It is important to do this right away because if you put off you could let someone else use your vehicle without your permission. This can result in penalties from the city.
You could also receive tips from the police about how to keep your vehicle secure. You'll also get a crime reference code that can be used to track the investigation. This will be important if you decide to make an insurance claim for the theft.
Make sure that you have your spare car keys in your bag. Sometimes, these keys are hidden in easy-to-access places, such as your wallet or purse or they may be with family members or friends members. You can also check with the local dealership to determine whether it is able to reprogram your factory key fob.
Check all the places you think your car key could be. Ask family members or friends to verify the information if they are able. You can also contact local libraries or restaurants to ask if any keys have been found. It is normal for people to forget where they left their keys. Therefore, it is important to check the obvious places first before moving on to more obscure ones.
Even if you have a spare, it's not a bad idea to call the police to inform them of the theft. This will deter anyone from trying your car and may assist them in finding your key. The police might also offer suggestions on how to safeguard your vehicle, which includes the use of a wheel lock.
In some instances the police may be able to inform you that your car's key has been returned to a police station. You can then go to the police station to get it. If you have electronic keys in your vehicle, the process could be more complicated.
2. Contact for a locksmith
Car keys stolen are a frustrating and stressful event. It doesn't matter if it was stolen, lost, or left in another location. The first step is to call the police and let them know that your car keys are missing. This will let them keep an eye on the key and help you gain possession of your car in the event that it is stolen.
The next step is to call an locksmith. The type of locksmith that you need to call depends on the type of car you own. If your vehicle is equipped with a mechanical key and ignition, 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 utilizes a traditional turn-key system, the locksmith will need to access the vehicle's IMEI number (which can be found on the key or the dashboard display). The locksmith will also have to verify that you own the vehicle by providing proof such as a registration or title.
In some cases the locksmith might be able to erase the "memory of the car" and stop the key from working again in the future. This usually requires you to bring your car to the dealer. In this instance you'll need to have a spare key, or be prepared to pay a significant amount for the service.
Review your home insurance policy to see if it covers car key theft and loss. Many policies provide this type of coverage and could be a great way to cover the costs of your replacement car keys and lock changes.
Keys stolen from cars are not uncommon. If you drive with care and take the proper precautions, your car is less likely to be taken.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
It is crucial to report the key theft to your insurance company. This will assist you in tracking the culprit and give you peace of mind. It also helps protect against identity theft. Thieves will often browse social media to find detailed details about their victims including address, workplace and other personal details. Reporting a stolen car key as soon as you discover it is missing can prevent this from happening.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. However, exact terms and conditions vary so it's advisable to contact your insurance provider and discuss the details of your insurance. Certain companies may provide additional benefits, such as free replacements or coverage for rental cars.
If your car keys aren't in the ignition, you will have to visit your dealer or the automaker to have a new set made. This involves removing the existing keys and reprogramming the new keys to the vehicle. Based on the type of keys used, it could be costly and could cost you $200-$500 per key.
A few thieves might try to drive your vehicle after they've taken your keys. This can lead to expensive damage, such as broken windows and doors. The person who stole the keys could also be fined when they drive without a license or violate traffic laws. Your insurance company will pay for any damages caused by the theft If you report it in time.
It's important that you confirm the keys are indeed missing after reporting their loss. This will prevent you from creating more info a false report and incurring additional costs. Start by searching every bag, pocket and other places where that you usually keep your keys. Then, take a walk through your day to think about what you could have done that could have caused them to be lost. For instance, did it happen that you place them on the table in your car after coming home from work? Did you drop them accidentally when you reached into your purse to grab your phone?
If you find your car keys, it's a good idea to contact the police. This will prevent 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 happens every 32 seconds and costs Americans more than $8 billion every year. Modern vehicles are equipped with the latest security features, making it difficult for thieves to steal them. Older cars and those with keyless entry need additional protection. Consider installing a steering lock, or tire lock with brakes to guard your car from theft. These locks are easy to install and make it difficult for thieves to steal your vehicle away.
It's important that you inform the police about the theft of your car keys to the police immediately. This will allow them to find the person responsible, and hopefully recover your vehicle. The police will also provide you with an identification number that can be used by your insurance company to investigate the theft.
You can also visit the dealership of your vehicle's maker and create new key fobs. You will need to have the existing keys scanned, and the new ones will have to be programmed with your vehicle's computer. This process can take several days and can be costly.
In addition to the cost of the new key, you will be required to pay for towing costs and any damage caused by the theft who stole your car. It is important to ensure that your car is in a secure parking area and park in areas that are well-lit. Also, keep your keys in a secure place and don't leave keys in the ignition.
The OBD port is typically located under the dashboard. This is a way that thieves steal modern vehicles. The criminals can use this information to unlock the code on the key fob, and start the vehicle. This is referred to as "relay theft." You can prevent it by installing an OBD portlock or parking in a secure area with cameras and guards.
You can also avoid having your car keys from being taken by storing them in a screened bag. These pouches block signals that thieves make use of to amplify their signal using equipment called "relay transmitters." You could also purchase the device referred to as a "relay-deactivator" that you can plug into your vehicle's OBD port in order to deactivate the stolen car key.