Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have changed due to the advances in automobiles. Today, most automobiles use electronic keys, but some still use the traditional turn-key ignition.
Losing your car keys can be a stressful and difficult. If someone steals your car keys and then uses them for a long period of time, it can leave you vulnerable to unauthorized access.
1. Contact the police
Contacting the police is the first thing you should do if you suspect your car key has been taken. They can help you create a report and will inform you when they locate your key or turns it in. It is imperative to report the theft immediately because if you delay you could allow someone to use your vehicle without authorization. This could lead to fines from the municipality.
You could also receive tips from the police on how to keep your car safe. You'll also be provided with a crime reference code that you can use to track the case. This is important if you would like to submit a claim to your insurance company in the event of theft.
If you have a spare car key ensure that you keep it with you. Sometimes, keys are kept in easily accessible places, like your wallet or purse or they might be in the possession of family or friends members. You can also inquire with your local dealership to see if it can reprogram your original key fob.
Double-check all the places you think your car key might be. Ask family members or friends to look it up if they can. You could also contact local restaurants or libraries to see if they've found any lost keys. Most of the time, people forget where they put their keys, which is why it's crucial to double-check obvious places before you start searching for less obvious ones.
Even in the event that 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 might even help them find your key. The police might be able to provide you advice about protecting your vehicle, for instance using a wheel lock.
In some cases, you may be able to learn from the police that your car keys were returned to a police station. You can then pick up your car keys at the police station. If you have an electronic key fob on your vehicle, the process can be more complicated.
2. Contact a locksmith
Car keys stolen are a frustrating and stressful event. If it was stolen, left somewhere else and forgotten or taken by someone who was just seeking an opportunity to steal your car, it can be devastating. Contact the police to inform them know that your keys to your car have disappeared. This will allow them to keep an eye on the key and help you regain possession of your vehicle in case it does get stolen.
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 is equipped with a mechanical key and ignition the locksmith will replace your current key. If your vehicle is older and uses a traditional turn key ignition, or it has a keyfob, the locksmith needs to have the IMEI number of your vehicle (which is usually displayed on the key or dashboard display). They will also need to be able verify that you are the owner of the vehicle by having proof like your registration or title.
In certain situations the locksmith may be able 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 need a spare or be willing to pay a lot of money for this service.
Review your home insurance policy for coverage of car key theft and loss. This coverage is provided in many policies, and can be a great way to cover the cost of replacing keys and lock changes.
Stolen keys to cars are not uncommon. If you drive cautiously and take the appropriate security measures, your car is less likely to be taken.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
It is crucial to report the key theft to your insurance company. This will assist you in tracking the culprit, and give peace of mind. It also protects you from identity theft. The thieves will search social media sites to find detailed information on their victims. This includes address, check here workplace, and other personal details. Reporting a missing car key immediately can help prevent this.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. The exact terms and conditions can vary so it is recommended to contact your insurance provider to discuss your policy. Some companies may offer additional benefits, for example, free replacements or rental car coverage.
If your car keys aren't in the ignition, you'll need to visit your dealer or the automaker to get a new set made. This will involve deleting the existing keys and reprogramming the new ones to the vehicle. This can be costly and ranges from $200 to $500 per key, depending on the type of key.
A few thieves might try to drive your vehicle after they've stolen the keys. This could result in costly damage, such as broken doors and windows. The burglar could be penalized if they drive without a license or in violation of traffic laws. Your insurance company will take care of any damage caused by the theft if you report it early.
After you've reported the theft of your car keys, it's important to verify that they are missing. This will help you avoid making a false claim and getting hit with extra charges. Start by searching your bag, pocket, and other places you normally keep your keys. Then, go back through your day and think about what you could have done that might have resulted in them being lost. Did you, for example, put them on the table in your car after you returned from work? Or did you accidentally drop them while reaching into your purse to take out your phone?
If you find your car keys, it's still a good idea to contact the police. This will prevent the thief from being able to use your keys stolen to gain access to other vehicles and to commit further crimes.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Car theft is a massive problem. It occurs every 32 seconds and costs Americans over $8 billion a year. Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated security features, making it hard for thieves steal them. Older cars and those with keyless entry need additional protection. To guard your car from theft, you should consider purchasing a steering wheel lock or a tire and brake lock. These locks are simple to install and make it impossible for thieves to drive your vehicle away.
If your car keys are stolen, it's crucial to report them immediately to the police immediately. This will enable them to locate the culprit and hopefully return 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 go to the dealership of your car's maker and have new key fobs created. You will need to have the existing keys scanned, and the new ones will have to be programmed with your vehicle's computer. This can take a few days and is costly.
In addition to the cost of a new key, you'll have to pay for towing as well as any damages caused by the thief while driving off with your car. It is important to keep your car in a secure parking spot and park in areas that are well-lit. Also, keep your keys in a safe location and don't put keys in the ignition.
One method used by thieves to steal cars of the present is by reading the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the OBD port, which is usually found under the dashboard. The criminals are able to use this information in order to get the code for the key fob, and then start the vehicle. This is known as "relay theft." You can avoid it by installing an OBD portlock or parking in a secure area with cameras and guards.
You can also stop your car keys from being stolen by keeping them in a screened pouch. The pouches will block the signal that thieves can amplify using equipment referred to "relay transmitters." You can also purchase a device dubbed"relay deactivator" or "relay deactivator" that can be plugged into your car's OBD port to deactivate the key that was stolen.