10 Unexpected Car Key Stolen What Do I Do Tips
10 Unexpected Car Key Stolen What Do I Do Tips
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Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have changed with the development of automobiles. Most autos today use electronic key fobs, however some still have the old fashioned turn-key ignition.
Losing your car keys can be stressful and difficult. It also leaves your vehicle vulnerable to unauthorized access if a person finds the vehicle and uses it for a long time.
1. Call the police
Notifying the police is the first step you need to do if you suspect your car keys have been stolen. They can assist you in preparing a report and will notify you when they locate your key or if someone turns it in. It is important to do this right away because if you put off for too long, someone else could use your car without permission. This could result in fines from the municipality.
The police may also be able to offer you advice on keeping your car safe and secure. You'll also be provided with a crime reference code which you can use to trace the case. This is important should you decide to make an insurance claim for the theft.
If you have a spare car key, make sure that you have it in your possession. Keys can be hidden in places that are easy to access, such as your purse or wallet or with family or friends. It's also worth checking with your local car dealership to determine if they are able to reprogram your factory key fob and give you the new one.
Double-check all the places you think your car key might be. Ask friends or family members to check too if possible. You could also contact local libraries or restaurants to see if they've discovered any keys missing. It is common for people to forget where they put their keys. Therefore, it is crucial to verify the obvious areas first before proceeding to less obvious locations.
Even in the event that you have a spare key, it's not a bad idea to call the police to report the theft. This will deter anyone from attempting to steal your car and it might aid in finding your keys before they do. The police might also be able to give 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 have been returned to a police station. You can then go to the police station to get it. If you have an electronic key fob on your vehicle, the process can be more complicated.
2. Call a Locksmith
A car key stolen can be an incredibly difficult and stressful experience. It doesn't matter if it was lost or left in a different location and forgotten, or stolen by someone seeking an opportunity to steal your car, it can be devastating. Call the police to let them know your keys to your car have disappeared. This will enable them to keep an eye out for the key and help you get your car back in case it does get taken.
Next, you'll want to call an locksmith. The type of locksmith you will require will depend on the type of vehicle you own. If your car is equipped with a standard, mechanical key and ignition system, then the locksmith will replace your existing 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 have to have access to your vehicle's IMEI number (which can be found on the key or on the dashboard display). The locksmith also needs to verify that you own the vehicle by providing proof such as a registration or title.
In some instances, the locksmith may be able erase the "memory of the car" and block the key from working in the future. This is usually a requirement to take your vehicle to the dealer. In this scenario you'll have to have a spare key or be willing to pay a substantial amount for the service.
Review your home insurance policy for coverage of car keys theft and loss. This coverage is provided in a variety of policies and is an excellent way to pay the cost of replacement keys and lock changes.
Keys stolen from cars are not uncommon. If you drive cautiously and take the appropriate precautions, your vehicle 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 perpetrator and provide peace of mind. It also helps protect against identity theft. Thieves will often browse social media to find detailed details about their victims including address, workplace and other personal information. Reporting missing car keys immediately can help prevent this.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. However, exact terms and conditions vary so it's advisable to contact your insurance provider to discuss the specifics of your coverage. Certain companies offer additional benefits such as rental car coverage or free replacements.
If your car keys aren't in the ignition, you'll have to go to your dealer or automaker to have a new set made. This will involve deleting the keys you have and reprogramming the new keys to the vehicle. Based on the type of keys used, this can be expensive and could cost you $200-$500 per key.
The thieves might try to drive the car after taking keys. This can cause expensive damage such as broken doors and windows. The person who stole the keys could also be fined when they drive without a license or in violation of traffic laws. If you report the loss of your keys at a young stage, your insurance company will be able to cover any damages caused by this crime.
After you've reported the theft of your car keys, you need to confirm that they are missing. This will ensure that you don't end up making a false report and getting hit with extra charges. Start by searching every pocket, bag and other places where you normally keep your keys. Then, walk back through your day and think about what you could have done that might have led to them being lost. Did you, for example, put them on the table in your car when you got home from work? Did you accidentally drop them when you went to your purse to get your phone?
If you discover your car keys, it's still a good idea to contact the police. This will here stop thieves from using the keys stolen to gain access to other vehicles and commit further criminal acts.
4. Schedule an Inspection
The theft of vehicles is a major issue. It occurs every 32 seconds and costs Americans over $8 billion a year. Modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features, making it hard to steal them. However, older vehicles and those that do not have keyless entry still need extra security. Consider installing a steering lock, or brake and tire locks to safeguard your vehicle from theft. These locks 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 assist them in tracking the perpetrator and hopefully recover your car. 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 of your vehicle's maker and get new keys made. You'll have to scan your keys and then program the new ones with the computer in your vehicle. This process could take a few days and is costly.
You'll also need to cover any damage caused by the thief as he takes off with your car. It is essential to keep your car in a secure parking area and park in well-lit areas. Keep your keys in a safe place and never put keys in the ignition.
The OBD port is typically located under the dashboard. This is one way that thieves steal modern cars. They can then use this information to find the code on your key fob, and then start the car. This is referred to as "relay theft." To prevent this from happening, you should install an OBD port lock or park in a secure parking area with cameras and security.
You can also prevent your car keys being stolen by keeping them in a screened bag. These pouches will block the signal thieves can amplify using equipment referred to "relay transmitters." You can purchase a gadget called"relay deactivator. "relay deactivator" that you can plug into your car's OBD port to block the key that was stolen.