Car Key Stolen But Not Car
It is not a good idea to leave keys in your car, but you might forget. If you forget and your keys are taken but the car is in place, here's how you can do.
You'll need to first contact the police. This will ensure that anyone who finds keys doesn't use them to commit crimes.
Buy a new set keys
Whether it's a second of forgetfulness or someone takes your keys, losing your car keys can be a traumatic and potentially dangerous scenario. You'll not only be unable to get where you want to go and will also need to spend money and time to replace your keys. The good thing is that it's not as costly and difficult to replace keys for cars as it was.
Before you call your local locksmith, make sure to see if your lost car key is covered by your insurance or warranty. If it is, take your proof of ownership with you to the locksmith. They can then work with the vehicle identification number (commonly known as the VIN), which they can use to make a new key for your vehicle without the original.
The most straightforward type of keys for cars to replace is the conventional or mechanical key. They can be made locally by your local locksmith and are usually less expensive than other types. If your vehicle is equipped with a transponder, or chip, then you will have to visit the dealership.
A transponder is a tiny chip in the car key that sends an individual code when it comes into contact with the vehicle. This is a safer way to start your vehicle and lowers the risk of theft. However it's more complex than cutting a regular car key.
Only dealers can give you a replacement transponder keys in the event that you lose it. This is because they keep records of each car's security systems and can access the data in their database easily.
Unless you have spare keys, it is recommended to call your dealer as soon as you can. They might be able to create a new key right away or they may need to wait for a replacement key to come in. This could take a couple of days, however, it's less expensive than hiring an auto locksmith to complete the task. It's much more convenient than searching for your keys elsewhere.
Report the theft to police
It's easy to lose focus and forget to leave your phone, wallet or key inside your vehicle. The first thing to do if you suspect that this has occurred is to call the police. This may seem like a waste of time, but it could assist law enforcement find your item stolen. Police will want to know details about the incident, including the name of the perpetrator, and any other items that were found in the vehicle.
It could be beneficial to include any items that you might have at the time of the theft, including your license or credit cards. If the items are found by a thief they could be used to commit crimes.
After you've reported the theft to the police, also call your car insurance company to make a claim. Based on the type of coverage you have, your insurance might pay for replacing your keys. You will also be advised to install an anti-theft device to your vehicle, such as a lock or immobilizer to stop thieves from stealing it in the future.
You can also contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state. This will change your car's title and registration information to show that it was taken. This will stop anyone from driving your car illegally, causing red lights or obtaining parking tickets, or committing other crimes.
You may be able to add a protection plan for your property as an extra coverage for the items stolen from your vehicle. This can protect you from the financial costs of items like laptops, phones or other valuables that you may have in your car. Find out whether your insurance provider provides this by speaking with a representative or by visiting the website of your company. Additionally, you can ask your insurance agent about other ways to enhance the security of your vehicle. Installing an alarm system is one way to improve the security of your car. Another alternative is to keep a spare key set away from your home or vehicle.
Keep track of your keys using an app for smartphones
In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. The process of getting a duplicate car key was simple. But now, modern cars require more sophisticated technology to operate. This means that the cost of replacing lost or stolen car keys has skyrocketed.
There are two types of keys for cars. The first is the electronic key fob. The second is the traditional key ignition that is turned on by a turn. The majority of modern cars have electronic key fobs. However, a fair number still have traditional ignitions that require turning of the key to start the car.
One method to avoid worrying about your car keys when you're traveling is to purchase a key tracker and attach it to your vehicle. There are a variety of key trackers available, but the most effective ones include:
To use the device, simply pair it with your smartphone. Then, when you're out and about the app will aid you in finding your car keys by emitting a sound or showing their location on the map. You can share the device with family and acquaintances so that they can locate your keys.
You may be able to file a claim for insurance in the event that you lose or steal your car keys. This is contingent on the nature and specifics of your policy. For instance, if paid for comprehensive or property insurance coverage and policies, they may cover the cost of replacing your lost keys.
It is also worth checking with your home insurance to see if it offers similar services. If you declare your car keys stolen or lost promptly, they may be able pay for replacing the keys.
If your car keys are missing, you must remain calm and create a plan of action. Contact the police as quickly as possible to avoid any additional complications. They can give you suggestions on how to protect your vehicle and also give you a crime reference number. They might even be able to issue you with a new set of keys in a matter of minutes.
Contact an expert locksmith
In the past, losing your keys to your car was an unimportant inconvenience. The only issue you faced was that in the event that you lost your car keys it would be impossible to enter the vehicle. As cars have advanced in technology as have their keys, and are now more expensive to replace in the event of theft. This means that it's important to always have a spare key as well as keeping your keys and car secured.
You should also check whether the personal property coverage on your home insurance policy covers the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. You could save money by not having to pay for an auto locksmith.
Notifying your keys that you lost to the police is another thing you must do. The police can then provide more advice on how to protect your car from theft for example, using a wheel lock, and will also give you a crime code that they can use to locate the thief.
If you haven't already done so, it's recommended to find an accredited locksmith who can deal with your particular car and its key. Some locksmiths can create new keys check here for different types of vehicles, while others will only be able to repair or replace older cars that use standard turn-key ignitions.
It is not uncommon to receive an additional key for your vehicle within a couple of minutes after providing your registration information. The dealership will make use of a computer to check the details of your vehicle and then create the key for you.
It's also worth considering having the keys to your car reprogrammed so that the previous owners can't use them. This is a service you can obtain at a dealership or a locksmith. This is a great method to protect your vehicle from being stolen once you've bought it used.