Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have evolved with the advancement in automobiles. Today, most automobiles use electronic key fobs and some still use the traditional turn-key ignition.
Losing keys can be a source of frustration and stressful. If someone finds your keys to your car and uses them for a certain period of time, it could leave you vulnerable to unauthorized entry.
1. Call the police
The first thing you need to do if your car keys is stolen is to contact the police. You can create an investigation report and they will let you know when they return your key. It is imperative to report the theft immediately, as if you wait, someone could use your vehicle without permission. This could lead to fines from the city.
You could also receive tips from the police on how to keep your car secure. You will also receive an incident reference number that you can use to track the investigation. This is essential if are planning to make a claim with your insurance company to cover the theft.
If you have a spare car key, make sure that you have it in your possession. The keys can be tucked away in places that are easy to access like your purse or wallet or in the hands of family or friends. You can also contact your local dealer to see whether they can reprogram the factory key fob.
Check all the places you believe your car key could be. If possible, ask friends or family members to check as well. You can also try calling local libraries or restaurants to see if they've discovered any keys missing. A lot of people forget where they have put their keys, which is why it's crucial to double-check obvious locations before looking in less common ones.
Even even if you have spare keys, it's still a good idea to contact the police to report the theft. This will deter anyone from trying your car and may help them locate your key. The police may also offer advice on how to protect your vehicle, which includes the use of a wheel lock.
In certain cases the police might be able to inform you that your car's key has been returned to a police station. Then, you can retrieve your car keys at the police station. If you have electronic keys in your vehicle, the process may be more complicated.
2. Contact a locksmith
A car key stolen is an extremely stressful and frustrating event. It doesn't matter if it was lost or left in a different location and neglected, or taken by someone seeking an opportunity to steal your car, it can be a devastating experience. The first step is to call the police and let them know that your keys to your car are missing. This will allow them to keep an eye out for the key and help you regain possession of your vehicle in the event it gets taken.
The next step is to contact an experienced locksmith. The type of locksmith you will require will depend on the type of vehicle you own. If your vehicle has a standard, mechanical key and ignition system, then the locksmith will simply replace your current key. However, if your vehicle is equipped with a key fob or is an older model that has a traditional turn-key ignition the locksmith will need to have access to the vehicle's IMEI number (which can be found on the back of the key or the dashboard display). The locksmith will also need to verify the ownership of the car by presenting proof such as a registration certificate or title.
In some instances the locksmith might be able erase the "memory of the car" and stop the key from working in the future. This usually requires you to bring your car to the dealer. You'll need a spare or be willing to pay a large amount of click here money for this service.
In the end, it's recommended to look over your home insurance policy to determine if they cover car key loss and theft. Many policies provide this coverage, and it can be a useful way to cover the costs of replacement keys for your car and lock replacements.
Stolen keys to cars are not uncommon. If you are a diligent driver and take all the necessary precautions, there is a much smaller chance that your car will be taken.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
The reporting of the theft of your car keys to your insurance company is crucial. This will help you track the culprit and give you peace of mind. It also helps protect you from identity theft. Thieves often search social media for detailed details about their victims including address, workplace and other personal information. Reporting a missing car key immediately can help prevent this.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. The specific terms and conditions may differ, so you should contact your insurance provider to discuss your coverage. Some companies might offer additional benefits, for example, free replacements or rental car insurance.
If the keys to your car are not in the ignition, you will need 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. This could be expensive and cost between $200 and $500 per key, depending on the model.
The thieves could attempt to drive the car after taking the keys. This can lead to expensive damage, like damaged doors and windows. The burglar could also be fined when they drive without a license or in violation of traffic laws. Your insurance company will pay for any damages caused by the theft If you report it in time.
After you've reported the theft of your car keys, it's crucial to verify that they are missing. This will prevent you from making an untrue claim and getting charged extra. Start by searching your bags, pockets, and any other places where you keep your keys. Then, walk back through your day to consider what you might have done that might have led to them being lost. For instance, did you put them on your car's table when you got home from work? Did you accidentally drop them when you reached into your purse to get your phone?
If you discover your car keys, it's an excellent idea to inform the police. This will stop the burglar from being able to use the keys you've stolen to access other vehicles and commit more crimes.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Car theft is a massive issue. It happens every 32 seconds and costs Americans more than $8 billion each year. Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated security features, making it difficult to steal them. However, older cars and those that do not have keyless entry still need extra protection. To guard your car from theft, think about purchasing a steering wheel lock or brake and tire lock. These devices are simple to install and make it difficult to steal your car.
It is imperative to inform the police about the theft of your car keys to police immediately. This will enable them to find the person responsible and possibly recover your vehicle. The police will also give you a the crime reference number which can be used by your insurance company to investigate the theft.
You can also visit the dealership for your vehicle's manufacturer and have new keys made. You'll have to scan your existing keys and then program your new ones on the car's computer. This process may take several days, and can cost you money.
In addition to the cost of the new key, you will have to pay for towing and any damage caused by the thief while driving off with your car. Make sure your car is in a place that is well-lit and in a secure parking lot. Also, keep your keys in a secure location and don't put them in the ignition.
One technique used by thieves to steal cars of the present is to read the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the OBD port which is typically found under the dashboard. The thieves are able to use this information in order to obtain the code for the key fob, and then begin the vehicle. This is referred to as "relay theft." You can stop it by installing an OBD portlock or parking in a secure area with cameras and guards.
You can also try to prevent your car keys from being taken by storing them in a screened pouch. These pouches block the signal that thieves use to amplify with devices referred to as "relay transmitters." You can also purchase the device referred to as a "relay-deactivator" that you can connect to your vehicle's OBD port to deactivate the car key that was stolen.