Why Car Key Stolen What Do I Do Will Be Your Next Big Obsession
Why Car Key Stolen What Do I Do Will Be Your Next Big Obsession
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Car Keys Stolen - What Do I Do If My Car Key Is Stolen?
Car keys have evolved along with the advancement of automobiles. Today, most cars use electronic keys, but some have the old fashioned turn-key ignition.
Losing your car keys can be stressful and frustrating. If someone discovers your car keys and then uses them for a long period of time, it can expose you to unauthorized access.
1. Contact the police
The first thing to do if your car keys is stolen is to notify the police. You can file an investigation report and they will notify you when they return your key. It is best to act quickly since if you delay, someone else might use your car without your permission. This could result in penalties from the municipality.
You may also get some tips from the police regarding how to keep your vehicle secure. You'll also be provided with a crime reference code that you can use to track the investigation. This is crucial in the event that you decide to submit an insurance claim to cover the theft.
If you have a spare car key ensure that you have it with you. Keys can be hidden in places that are easy to access like your wallet or purse, or even with your family or friends. It's also worth checking with your local dealership for cars to see if they can reprogram the key fob that came with the car and give you a new one.
Double-check any possible locations in which you may have lost your car keys. Ask friends or family members to check too if possible. You could also contact local restaurants or libraries to find out if they've discovered any keys missing. A lot of people forget where they have put their keys, making it important to double-check the obvious places before you start looking in less common ones.
Even if you have a spare key, it's important to contact the police to report a theft. This will deter anyone from attempting to steal your car and may help them find your key. The police might also offer advice on how to protect your vehicle, such as using a wheellock.
In some instances you might learn from the police that your car keys have been returned to a police station. You can then visit the police station and get it. If you have an electronic key fob on your vehicle, the process could be more difficult.
2. Call a Locksmith
A car key stolen is an extremely stressful and frustrating event. It doesn't matter if the key was stolen or lost, it's just a matter of finding it in another location. Contact the police to let them know your keys to your car are missing. This will allow them to keep an eye on the key and help you get your car back in case it does get taken.
The next step is to call a professional locksmith. The type of locksmith that you need to call depends on the kind of car you have. If your vehicle is equipped with an ignition and key that is mechanical, the locksmith can simply replace your current key. If your vehicle is older and uses an old-fashioned turn key ignition, or if it has a keyfob the locksmith needs to have the IMEI number of your vehicle (which can be found on the dashboard or in the key display). The locksmith also needs to verify that you own 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 block the key from working in the future. This will usually require you to bring your car 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 keys theft and loss. This coverage is covered in a lot of policies, and can be an excellent way to pay the cost of replacement keys and lock replacements.
Keys stolen from cars are not common. If you're a diligent driver and take the appropriate precautions there is a less chance that your vehicle will be stolen.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Reporting the theft of your car keys to your insurance company is essential. This will help you track the culprit, and give peace of mind. It will also protect you from identity theft. The thieves will search social media sites to find detailed details about their victims. This includes the address, work place as well as other personal details. Reporting the theft of a car key as soon as you notice it missing could prevent this from happening.
Most auto policies include coverage for lost car keys. However, the exact conditions and terms vary, so it's best to contact your insurance provider and discuss the details of your policy. Certain companies offer additional benefits like rental insurance for cars or free replacements.
If your car keys aren't in the ignition, you'll have to visit your dealer or automaker to get a new set made. This involves removing the keys that are in use and programming the new ones to the vehicle. This could be expensive and ranges from $200 to $500 per key, depending on the model.
The thieves could attempt to drive the car after taking the keys. This could result in costly damage, like damaged doors and windows. The person who stole the keys could also be fined for driving without a license or violate traffic laws. Your insurance company will cover any damage caused by the theft when you report it before the deadline.
It is crucial to confirm the keys are indeed missing after submitting the loss report. This will help you avoid making a false claim and being charged a fee. Start by searching your pocket, bag and other places where you typically keep your keys. Then, go back through your day to consider what you could have done that might have led to them being lost. For instance, did you, put them on your car's table after returning from work? Did you accidentally drop them when you went to your purse to grab your phone?
It is a good idea to notify the police if discover your keys. This will stop the thief using the keys stolen to gain access to other vehicles and commit more criminal acts.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Theft of cars is a major issue. It occurs every 32 seconds and costs Americans over $8 billion a year. Fortunately, modern cars have advanced security features that make it very difficult for thieves to take them. However, older cars and those that do not have keyless entry require additional protection. Consider installing a steering lock, or tire and brake locks to protect your car against theft. These devices are easy to install and will make it difficult for a thief to drive your vehicle away.
If your car keys have been stolen, you must report them immediately to the police. This will help them locate the culprit and possibly recover your vehicle. The police will also give you a an identification number that can be used by your insurance company to investigate the theft.
You can also visit the dealership of your vehicle's manufacturer and create new key fobs. You'll have to scan your existing keys and program the new ones using the computer in your vehicle. This process could take a few days and is costly.
You'll also need to pay for any damage done by the thief who leaves with your vehicle. It is important to keep your car in a secure parking spot and park in well-lit areas. Keep your keys in a secure location and don't put them in the ignition.
One method that thieves use to steal cars of the present is to read the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the OBD port which is typically located under the dashboard. They can then utilize this information to figure the code check here on your key fob, and then start the car. This is called "relay theft." You can stop it by installing an OBD portlock or parking in a secure area with security cameras and guards.
You can also try to stop your car keys from being taken by storing keys in a pouch that is screened. These pouches block the signal thieves use to amplify with devices referred to as "relay transmitters." You could also purchase the device referred to as a "relay-deactivator" that you can plug into your vehicle's OBD port in order to disable the stolen car key.