What to Do If Your Car Keys Are Stolen
When you lose your car keys, it could be very frustrating. However, it's important to remain calm and not be overwhelmed.
Then, try retracing your steps. This will help you determine if your car keys are actually stolen or just misplaced. Next, call your insurance company. You may be able to submit an insurance claim depending on the situation.
Report the theft to police
The first thing you have to do when your car keys have been stolen is to report it to the police. You will receive a crime reference code that can be used to track your keys and vehicle. The police can also offer tips on how to safeguard your vehicle, for example using a wheel lock.
The next step is to try and find the keys. Check every pocket, bag and other places you might have them. Look for places that you may not normally look, like underneath the seat or your shoes. You can also use an app to locate your keys. Examples include Tile or AirTag. These apps can ring your keys or show you its last known location on a map but they only work only if the keys are within range of your phone.
If you have an older key that doesn't have any fancy chips, you can replace it at your local locksmith. If, however, you have a smart key or remote start, then you'll need to go to the dealership to purchase. In this instance it is worthwhile to check your insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of buying a new key and lock.
Car thefts that are caused by who leave their keys in their car are on the rise and it is crucial to ensure they are secure at all times. Thieves may use the relay attack to replicate the signal from the key fob of a car, then wait for a accomplice to appear with a piece of equipment that will allow the vehicle to be opened. This is a typical method of car theft in large cities, where thieves have access to sophisticated equipment. Always leave an extra set of keys somewhere else than in your vehicle. It is also not a good idea to leave your insurance documents or your license in your car since they are important tools for identity thieves. If you lose your keys, call your insurance company and the police immediately.
Contact your insurance company
If you have comprehensive insurance on your car it is essential to inform your insurance company as soon as possible about the missing keys. This will help keep you secure and stop other people from using your vehicle. Most insurance policies will reimburse you for the cost of a locksmith, or even the dealer who will make a new set of keys.
It can be extremely stressful to lose your car keys but the most important thing you want is for someone else to use keys! It's a good idea contact your local locksmith right away and ask them to make duplicate keys for you. They can also program the replacement keys so that the keys you lost be ineffective.
Reporting your keys stolen to the police as quickly as you can is always an ideal idea, particularly in the case of a smart key. The police will give you a crime reference number and give you additional tips on making sure your car is secure by installing a wheel lock. They might be able to offer suggestions on where to buy a replacement key.
It is important to check your bags and pockets carefully before contacting your insurance company. It's easy to lose the car key if it's lost or if your keys are thrown out of your bag when you try to grab something. If you've searched everywhere and still can't find them, it's probably time to call your insurance company.
The decision to submit an insurance claim following losing a car key depends on the type of key you own and the deductible you have. Most old-style mechanical keys are cheap and can be replaced by locksmiths for less than your deductible. However, modern keys are typically more expensive and should be purchased from the dealer or manufacturer. In some instances, the price of a new key can exceed your limit on deductible.
It is also important to be aware that insurance companies may conduct a credit check to determine if fraud is possible. This could lead to your claim being rejected or investigated this is why it's vital to report any keys stolen as soon as possible.
Find a new set keys
It is essential to remain calm and plan what you are going to do when you lose your car keys. There are many options to replace your set of keys. The majority options are less expensive than you think. You can also use Bluetooth key trackers to keep your keys safe and easily accessible. This option is especially helpful when you lose your car keys often. You can locate these types of devices online or in most electronics stores.
The first thing to do is determine the type of key you own. If you have a traditional or mechanical key it is easy to replace it with one purchased from a locksmith or at a hardware store. These keys do not come with any unique features, and they are only used to lock or unlock your vehicle. You may require an auto locksmith or dealer to replace the transponder key, a type of key that is more advanced and typically installed in the key fob.
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 will need the VIN number of your vehicle to get a new key. A dealership may also create an original key for your car, but it might cost more than calling locksmith.
Whatever kind of key you have it is an excellent idea to have an extra key in case of need. In this way, you'll be able to return to the road without having to wait for a locksmith to arrive. Additionally, you'll be able to avoid having to pay for a tow or phone for roadside assistance.
Examine the pockets of your clothes and other places where you may not typically look for keys, such as in your shoes if they're on or in the refrigerator when you've consumed a beer. You can also leave a spare key with someone in your family or a trusted friend. If you're looking to keep your keys in a safe place and easy to locate you might want to consider a Bluetooth tracker.
Get your car repaired
There are a variety of routes you can take when your car keys are stolen. You can file an insurance to cover the cost of your new key fob and have your locks changed if you do not have an extra. Or, you can purchase keys from a hardware store at a lower cost than it would cost to file an claim.
It is possible to visit your dealer to change the key, based on whether your vehicle has an electronic fob or a traditional key ignition. The dealer is likely to purchase a new chip and pair it with your vehicle, which can be expensive. According to Reina your roadside protection, it may be able to cover the cost of transporting your vehicle to a dealer or other service shop where a new one can be created.
You must be cautious when dealing with locksmiths, because there are scammers that will try to overcharge you for services that your car insurance or dealer already covers. Some locksmiths have also been known to use "key phishing," a technique where they fool the owner into thinking that their car's manufacturer sent them a request asking them to reset their codes. These scams are very difficult to detect however, you can avoid them by entering your code only on the app or website of the manufacturer.
Check with your home insurance provider to determine if there's any additional coverage for keys that are lost in the car. American Family, for instance provides coverage for garage door openers and keys to your home without the cost-sharing. The coverage isn't available to all insurers, but it's worth checking to see if it's available by your current insurer or if you're more info eligible to add it to your policy.