Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have evolved due to the advances in automobiles. Today, most cars use electronic key fobs, but certain models still use the turn-key ignition of the past.
Losing your keys to your car can be stressful and stressful. It can also leave your vehicle vulnerable to unauthorized access if someone discovers it and uses it for a while.
1. Call the police
Contacting 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 reports and let you know whether they have found your car key or gives it back. It is important to take action immediately because if you put off you could let someone else use your car without permission. This could lead to penalties from the municipality.
The police might also be able to offer you tips about keeping your vehicle secure and safe. They can also provide you with an identification number for crime that you can use to track your case. This is crucial in the event that you decide to submit an insurance claim to cover the theft.
Always keep your spare car keys on hand. Keys can be hidden in places that are easy to reach, such as your purse or wallet, or with family or friends. You can also check with your local dealership to see if it can reprogram your factory key fob.
Double-check all the places you believe your car key could be. If you can, ask friends or family members to check too. You can also call local libraries or restaurants to find out if they've found any keys that were lost. Many times, people forget where they put their keys, so it's important to double-check the obvious places before searching for less obvious ones.
Even even if you have a spare, it's still a good idea to contact the police to report the theft. This will stop anyone from trying to steal your car, and could aid in finding your key prior to them doing. The police might also offer advice on how to protect your car, including using a lock for your wheel.
In some instances you may to learn from the police that your car keys were returned to an officer station. Then, you can retrieve your car keys at the police station. If you have electronic keys on your vehicle, the process may be more complex.
2. Call a Locksmith
A car key stolen is an extremely stressful and frustrating event. If it was stolen, left somewhere else and neglected, or taken by someone who was just looking for a way 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 an eye out for the key, and help you get control of your car if it is stolen.
The next step is to call a professional locksmith. The type of locksmith you'll need to call will depend on the kind of car you have. If your car is equipped with mechanical keys that are standard and ignition system, the locksmith will simply replace your current key. If your car is older and uses an old-fashioned turn key ignition, or if it has a keyfob, the locksmith should have the IMEI number of your vehicle (which can be found on the dashboard or in the key display). They must also be able to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle by having proof such as your registration or title.
In some cases the locksmith might be able to erase the "memory of the car" and stop the key from working in the future. This is usually a requirement to bring your vehicle to the dealer. You'll either require a spare or willing to pay a lot of money for this service.
It is also a good idea to check your insurance policy for home insurance to see if they cover the loss or theft of keys to your car. This coverage is included in many policies, and is an excellent way to pay the cost of replacement keys and lock replacements.
Car keys stolen from cars are not uncommon. If you are a diligent driver and take the appropriate precautions there is a less chance that your vehicle will be taken.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
It's important 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 will also protect you from identity theft. The thieves will search social media sites for detailed information about their victims. This includes the address, work place as well as other personal details. Reporting missing car keys immediately can help prevent this.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. However, the exact conditions and terms may differ, so it's best to call your provider and discuss the details of your coverage. Certain companies provide additional benefits like rental insurance for cars or free replacements.
You'll need go to your automaker or dealer to order a replacement set if your keys for your car are missing from the ignition. This will involve deleting the keys that are in use and programming the new ones to the vehicle. Depending on the type of keys, this can be expensive and can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 per key.
Some thieves may attempt to drive your car after they've stolen the keys. This could result in costly damages, including broken windows and doors. The person who stole the keys could also be fined if they drive without a license or in violation of traffic laws. If you report the theft of your keys at an early stage the insurance company will pay for any damages resulting from this crime.
It's important that you confirm the keys are indeed missing after reporting their loss. This will help you avoid making an untrue claim and getting charged an additional fee. Start by searching your bags, pockets, and any other places you store your keys. Then, go back and reflect on your day and what you could have done to cause the keys to disappear. For example, did you put check here them on the table in your car after coming home from work? Did you accidentally drop them when you reached into your purse to retrieve your phone?
It's a good idea contact the police if you discover your keys. This will prevent the thief from being able to use your keys stolen to gain access to other vehicles and commit more crimes.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Car theft is a huge problem. It happens every 32 seconds and costs Americans more than $8 billion each year. Modern cars come with advanced security features, making it very difficult for thieves to steal them. However, older cars and those that do not have keyless entry are still in need of protection. To guard your car from theft, consider getting a steering wheel lock or a brake and tire lock. These locks are simple to install and will make it difficult for thieves to drive your vehicle away.
It is imperative to report the theft of your car keys to police immediately. This will enable them to track down the thief, and hopefully recover your vehicle. The police will give you a the number of the crime that your insurance company can use to investigate the theft.
You can also go to the dealership for your car's manufacturer and have new key fobs created. You'll need to scan your existing keys and program your new ones on the vehicle's computer. This can take a few days and can be costly.
You'll also need to pay for any damage done by the thief as he takes off with your car. It is essential 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 safe place and don't leave keys in the ignition.
The OBD port is usually located under the dashboard. This is one method that thieves steal modern cars. The thieves are able to use this information in order to obtain the code for the key fob and start the car. This is known 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 prevent your car keys from being stolen by keeping them in a bag that is screened. These pouches block the signal thieves use to amplify with equipment called "relay transmitters." You can also buy the device referred to as a "relay-deactivator" which you can plug into your vehicle's OBD port in order to deactivate the car key that was stolen.