Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have evolved with the advancement of automobiles. Today, most automobiles use electronic key fobs and some 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
The first thing you should do if your car key is stolen is to notify the police. They can assist you in preparing a report and will inform you whether they have found your key or if someone is willing to surrender it. You should do this immediately, as if you wait you could allow someone to use your vehicle without permission. This could lead to fines from the city.
The police might provide you some tips on how to keep your vehicle safe and secure. You'll also be provided with an identification code for crime which can be used to track the investigation. This is crucial in the event that you decide to file an insurance claim for the theft.
If you have a spare car key, make sure that you have it with you. The keys can be tucked away in places that are easy to reach like your purse or wallet, or with family or friends. You can also check with your local dealer to see whether they can reprogram your factory key fob.
Make sure to check any possible locations in which you may have lost your car key. If possible, ask friends or family members to look as well. You can also call local libraries or restaurants to inquire if any keys have been discovered. It is common for people to forget where they left their keys. Therefore, it is crucial to verify the obvious areas first before moving on to less obvious locations.
Even if you've got an extra key, it's important to notify the police of an incident of theft. This will stop anyone from trying to steal your car and could aid in finding your key before they do. The police might be able to provide you advice on protecting your vehicle, for instance having a lock on your wheel.
In certain cases you might learn from the police that your car keys were returned to an officer station. You can then retrieve your car keys at the police station. The process can be more difficult if your vehicle is a modern vehicle that uses an electronic key fob.
2. Call for a locksmith
A stolen car key can be an incredibly difficult and stressful experience. It doesn't matter if it was lost, left somewhere else and neglected, or taken by someone seeking an opportunity to steal your car, it could be devastating. The first step is to call the police and inform them that your car keys are missing. This will enable them to keep an eye on keys and assist you to regain possession of your vehicle in the event it gets taken.
The next step is to contact an experienced locksmith. The kind of locksmith you will need to call will depend on the type of car you own. If your car comes with an ignition and key that is mechanical the locksmith will replace your current key. However, if your car has a key fob or is an older model that only uses a traditional turn-key ignition, the locksmith will need to access the vehicle's IMEI number (which is located on the key or the dashboard display). The locksmith will also need to verify that you own the car by presenting evidence such as a registration or title.
In some cases locksmiths may be in a position to erase the vehicle's "memory" of the stolen key and prevent it from working in the future. However, this will typically require you to bring your vehicle to the dealership to be able to do this. You'll need a spare or be willing to pay a large amount of money for this service.
In the end, it's a good idea to check your home insurance policy to see if they cover car keys being stolen or lost. A lot of policies include this protection and could be a great method to cover the cost of your replacement car keys and lock changes.
Car keys stolen from cars are not uncommon. If you drive carefully and take the necessary security measures, your car is less likely to be taken.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
It is essential to report the car key theft to your insurance company. This will help you track the culprit and provide peace of mind. It also protects you from identity theft. Thieves frequently browse social media to find detailed information about their victims, including address, work location and other personal details. Reporting a missing car key immediately can help prevent this.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. The specific terms and conditions of the policy can differ, so you should contact your insurance company to discuss your policy. Certain companies provide additional benefits like rental car coverage or free replacements.
If your car keys are not in the ignition, you'll have to visit your dealer or the automaker to get a new set made. This involves removing the old keys and reprogramming new keys for your vehicle. Depending on the type of keys, this could be costly and can cost between $200 and $500 per key.
The thieves may try to drive the car following the theft of the keys. This can lead to expensive damages, including damaged doors and windows. The burglar could be penalized when they drive without a permit or violate traffic laws. Your insurance company will pay for any damage caused by the theft If you report it in time.
It's important that you confirm that the keys are missing after reporting their loss. This will ensure that you don't end up making a false claim and incurring additional charges. Start by searching your pocket, bag and other places where that you usually keep your keys. Then, walk back through your day and think about what you might have done that might have caused them to be lost. For instance, did it happen that you place them on the table in your car after getting home from work? Did you accidentally drop them when you went to your purse to retrieve your phone?
If you find your car keys, it's an excellent idea to inform the police. This will stop thieves from using the keys stolen to gain access to other vehicles and commit more crimes.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Theft of vehicles is a major issue. Every 32 seconds it costs Americans more than $8 billion each year. Modern vehicles are equipped with the latest security features, making it very difficult to steal them. However, older vehicles and those that do not have keyless entry are still in need of protection. Consider a steering lock or brake and tire locks to safeguard your vehicle from theft. These locks are easy to install and make it impossible for thieves to steal your vehicle away.
If your car keys have been stolen, you must report it immediately to police immediately. This will enable them to locate the culprit and possibly recover your vehicle. The police will provide you with a a crime number that your insurance company can use to investigate the theft.
You can also visit the dealership of your car's manufacturer and get new key fobs created. You'll need to scan your keys and then program the new ones using the computer website in your vehicle. This can take a few days and will be expensive.
In addition to the cost of the new key, you'll have to pay for towing as well as any damages caused by the thief when he steals your car. Keep your car in an area which is well-lit, and in an area that is secure. Keep your keys in a secure place and never put keys in the ignition.
One method that thieves use to steal modern cars is to read the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the OBD port which is typically located beneath the dashboard. The criminals could use this information to get the code for the key fob, and then start the vehicle. This is known as "relay theft." You can stop it by installing an OBD portlock or parking in a secure location with cameras and guards.
You can also keep your keys from being taken by storing keys in a pouch that is screened. The pouches will stop the signal that thieves can amplify with devices referred to as "relay transmitters." You can also purchase a device called a "relay deactivator" that you can plug into your car's OBD port to disable the key that was stolen.