Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have evolved along with the development of automobiles. Nowadays, the majority of automobiles have electronic keys, but some still use the traditional turn-key ignition.
Losing your car keys can be stressful and frustrating. It can also leave your vehicle vulnerable to unauthorised access if someone discovers it and then uses it for a long time.
1. Call the Police
The first thing to do if you suspect that your car key is stolen is to notify the police. They can assist you in preparing a report and will let you know if they find your key or is willing to surrender it. It is best to act quickly because if you wait for too long, someone else could use your car without your permission. This can result in penalties from the city.
The police might also be able to give you some tips on how to keep your car safe and secure. They will also provide you with a crime reference number that you can use to track your case. This will be important if you decide to make an insurance claim for the theft.
If you have an extra car key, ensure that you have it in your possession. Keys can be hidden in places that are easy to reach, such as your purse or wallet, or with family or friends. It is also worth contacting your local dealership for cars to determine if they are able to reprogram your factory key fob and give you the new one.
Double-check any possible locations where you might have lost your car key. If possible, ask your friends or family to check too. You could also contact local libraries or restaurants to find out if they've found any lost keys. It is normal for people to forget where they left their keys. Therefore, it is important to check the obvious places prior to moving on to less obvious locations.
Even if you have a spare, it's not a bad idea to call the police to report the theft. This will stop anyone from trying your car, and could help them find your key. The police may provide advice on how to protect your car, including using a lock for your wheel.
In some instances you may find out from the police your car keys have been returned to the police station. You can then go to the police station and take it back. If you have electronic keys on your vehicle, the process may be more complicated.
2. Contact a locksmith
A car key stolen is an extremely stressful and frustrating event. If it was stolen or discarded in another location, forgotten, or stolen by someone seeking an opportunity to take your car, it can be devastating. The first step is to contact the police and let them know that your car keys are missing. This will enable them to keep a lookout for the key, and assist you get control of your car if it is stolen.
The next step is to contact a professional locksmith. The kind of locksmith you will require will depend on the kind of vehicle you own. If your car has an ordinary, mechanical key and ignition system, the locksmith will simply replace your existing key. If your vehicle is older and has an old-fashioned turn key ignition, or if it has a keyfob the locksmith must have the IMEI number of your vehicle (which can be found on the dashboard or key display). The locksmith will also have to verify your ownership of the car by presenting proof like a registration or title.
In certain situations the locksmith may be able erase the "memory of the car" and block the key from working in the future. However, this will typically require you to bring your car to the dealership for the purpose of doing so. In this scenario you'll need to have a spare key, or be prepared to pay a significant get more info amount for the service.
Lastly, it is 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 provided in a lot of policies, and is an excellent way to cover the cost of replacement keys and lock changes.
Car keys stolen from cars are a frequent occurrence. If you're a responsible driver and take all the necessary precautions there is a smaller chance that your car will be taken.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
It is crucial to report the car key theft to your insurance company. This will help track the perpetrator and provide you with peace of mind. It also helps protect you from identity theft. The thieves will search social media sites for specific information about their victims. This includes addresses, work address, and other personal details. Reporting a stolen car key as soon as you notice it is missing can prevent this from happening.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. The specific terms and conditions can vary so it is recommended to contact your insurance company to discuss your insurance coverage. Certain companies provide additional benefits such as rental insurance for cars or free replacements.
If your car keys aren't in the ignition, you'll have to go to your dealer or the automaker to get a new set made. This involves removing the old keys and programming new ones for the vehicle. Depending on the type of keys, it could be costly and can cost between $200 and $500 per key.
Some thieves may try to drive your car after stealing your keys. This could cause costly damage such as broken windows and doors. It's also likely that the burglar will be punished for driving without a permit or violating traffic laws. Your insurance company will cover any damages caused by the theft if you report it early.
It is crucial to confirm that the keys are missing after submitting the loss report. This will prevent you from making a false report and racking up additional charges. Start by searching your purses, pockets, and any other places you keep your keys. Then, go back through your day to think about what you did that might have caused them to be lost. Did you, for example put them on your car's table after returning from work? Did you accidentally drop them when you reached into your purse to get your phone?
It's a good idea to call the police if you find your keys. This will stop the thief using your stolen keys to gain access to other vehicles and commit further criminal acts.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Car theft is a massive issue. It occurs every 32 seconds and costs Americans more than $8 billion every year. Modern cars are equipped with the latest security features, making it difficult for thieves to steal them. Older cars and those with keyless entry require additional protection. Consider a steering lock or tire and brake locks to protect your car against theft. These devices are simple to install and make it impossible to steal your car.
If your car keys are stolen, it's crucial to immediately report the theft to the police immediately. This will allow them to track down the thief, and hopefully recover your vehicle. The police will also provide you with 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 manufacturer and get new keys made. You'll need to scan your current keys and program your new ones on the car's computer. This process can take several days and can be costly.
You will also have to cover any damage caused by the criminal as he takes off with your car. Make sure that your car is in an area which is well-lit, and in a secure parking lot. Also, keep your keys in a secure place and don't leave keys in the ignition.
The OBD port is typically located under the dashboard. This is one way that thieves steal modern cars. The thieves can use this information to unlock the code on the key fob and start the car. This is known as "relay theft." To stop this from happening, you should install an OBD port lock or park in a secured parking area with cameras and guards.
You can also avoid having your car keys being taken by storing them in a bag that is screened. The pouches will block the signal that thieves can amplify with equipment called "relay transmitters." You can purchase a gadget called"relay deactivator" or "relay deactivator" that can be plugged into your car's OBD port to disable a stolen key.