What to Do If Your Car Keys Are Stolen
If you lose your car keys, it can be very frustrating. However, it's important to be calm and not panic.
First, retrace the steps you took. This will help determine if your car keys have been stolen or lost. Next, call your insurance company. You may be able to make an insurance claim based on the circumstances.
Inform the police about the theft
Reporting the theft of your car keys to the police is the first step. You will receive a crime reference code that can be used to track your keys and your vehicle. The police might also be able to offer advice about protecting your vehicle, for instance the use of the wheel lock.
The next step is to locate the keys. Examine every bag, pocket and other places you might have them. Also, make sure to examine places where you would not normally look, like under the seat or in your shoes. You can also make use of an app to locate your keys, such as Tile or AirTag. These apps can ring your keys or show its last known location on a map however, they only work only if the keys are within reach of your phone.
If you have a traditional car key (think older keys without any fancy chips) then you can easily obtain a replacement from your local locksmith. If you own a remote or smart key, you'll need visit the dealership. It is worth checking to see if your insurance covers the cost of replacing a lock and key.
Car thefts triggered by people who leave their keys in their car are increasing, and it is essential to keep them safe at all times. The thieves could employ the device, known as relay attack, which copies the signal from the key fob of the car. They then wait for a third party to arrive with a piece of equipment to open the car. This is a common way of stealing cars in large cities where the thieves can access sophisticated equipment. It is recommended to always keep an extra set of keys somewhere other than inside your car. Never leave your insurance or license in your car, since they are valuable tools to identity thieves. If you lose your keys, you should contact your insurance company and the police immediately.
Contact your insurance company
If you have comprehensive insurance on your car It is crucial to inform your company immediately about the keys missing. This will ensure your safety and stop other people from using your vehicle. Most policies will pay for the cost of a car dealer or locksmith to make new keys.
It's stressful to lose your keys. The last thing you want to happen is that someone else uses them! It's a good idea contact your local locksmith immediately and request a duplicate key for you. They'll also be able to program the replacement key so that the lost pair no longer works.
Notifying your keys that you lost to the police as quickly as you can is always recommended, especially in the case of a smart key. The police can give you an identification number for the crime and offer further advice on how to keep your vehicle safe, such as installing wheel locks. They might also offer advice on where to buy an additional key.
It is important to check your pockets and bags thoroughly before contacting your insurance company. It's possible to lose a car key if it's dropped or if the keys are thrown out of your bag when you reach in to take something. If you've looked everywhere but still can't find them, it's probably time to contact your insurance company.
The decision to file an insurance claim after losing a car keys depends on the kind of check here key you have and the amount of your deductible. The majority of mechanical car keys are inexpensive and can be replaced by a locksmith for the cost of less than the insurance deductible. The latest keys, however are more costly and require to be ordered directly from the dealer or manufacturer. In some instances the purchase of a new car key could cost more than your maximum deductible.
It's also worth noting that if you have significant debt, an insurance company might run a credit check to see if there is an opportunity for fraud. This could result in your claim being rejected or scrutinized, which is why it's vital to report your keys stolen immediately.
Purchase a new set of keys
If you have lost your car keys, it is essential to stay calm and think through what you can do next. There are several options to replace your set of keys, and most options are cheaper than you might expect. You can also utilize a Bluetooth key tracker to keep your car keys secure and easy to find. This option is especially helpful in the event that you lose your car keys frequently. These devices can be found online or in most electronics stores.
The first step is to determine the kind of key you have. If you have an old traditional or mechanical key, it can be replaced easily by a locksmith. These keys do not have special features or chips, and can only be used to unlock and lock the vehicle. If you have transponder keys, which are an advanced version of key that is usually found inside the key fob or key chain, you might have to go to an auto locksmith or dealer to purchase a replacement.
In the United States, most vehicles manufactured after 1990 are equipped with a chip within the key that is connected to the computer of the vehicle. You'll require the VIN number of your car to get an additional key. A dealership can also make keys for your car, but it could cost more than calling a locksmith.
No matter what kind of car key you've got regardless of the type, you should always have a spare key in case you lose one. You will be able get back on the roads without having to wait around for a locksmith. Additionally, you will be able to avoid paying for tows and calling roadside assistance.
It is important to examine the pockets of your clothes before you leave and also to look in places where you would not typically look for keys for example, in your shoes if you're wearing them, or in the fridge if you have been drinking some beer. You can also leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member, and you could even consider using a Bluetooth key tracker to keep your keys in the car safe and easily accessible.
Get your car repaired
There are a variety of alternatives if your car keys get stolen. You can file an insurance to pay for your new key fob and have your locks changed if don't have an extra. Or, you can purchase keys from a hardware store for a fraction of the price it would cost to file an insurance claim.
Depending on the type of car and whether it has an electronic key fob or a standard turn-key ignition, you may have to visit your auto dealer or dealer to obtain a replacement. The dealer will likely have to purchase a new key chip and connect it to your vehicle, which can be expensive. However your roadside assistance policy may pay for towing the car to a dealership or other service shop that can make an entirely new key, as per Reina.
Locksmiths are scammers who will overcharge for services that are already covered by your car insurance. Some people have also been caught using "key phishing," a technique where they fool the owner into thinking that their car manufacturer sent them a message asking for them to reset their codes. These scams can be very difficult to identify however, you can keep an eye for them by entering your code through the car manufacturer's website or application.
While you're at it you should check with your home insurance company to see if they have any additional insurance for lost car keys. American Family, for instance offers protection for garage door openers as well as keys for your dwelling without a minimum deductible. This coverage isn't available from all insurance companies. It's worth to determine if the current provider provides it or if you are able to add it to your existing policy.