Car Key Stolen But Not Car
We all know that you shouldn't put your keys in your car, but there are times when you forget. If you've forgotten and your keys are taken but the car is in place, here's what you need to do.
The first thing you'll need to do is call the police. This will ensure that anyone who comes across the keys does not make use of them to commit a crime.
Purchase a new set of keys
Losing your car keys could be frustrating and dangerous regardless of whether it's caused by a momentary forgetfulness or the theft of your keys. Not only does it prevent you from getting to where you're going but it also means that you'll need to spend time and money replacing your key. The good news is it's no longer as complicated or expensive to replace the key.
Before calling your locksmith in the area, you should check to see if your lost car key is covered under your insurance or warranty. If it is, take your proof of ownership along with you to the locksmith. They will then make use of the vehicle identification number or VIN, to create the new key for your car without the original.
Mechanical or traditional car keys are the simplest type of car key to replace. These keys can be made locally by your local locksmith, and are generally less expensive than other types. However, if the car is equipped with chip or transponder, you'll need to visit a dealer instead.
A transponder, which is a tiny chip that is found in the car key, sends an individual number when it is in contact with the vehicle. This is a secure method to start your vehicle and reduces the chance of theft. However it's more complex than cutting a regular car key.
Only the dealer can issue 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 find the information in their system quickly.
If you don't have a spare key, contact your dealer as soon as you can. They may be able to make you a new one right away or they may have to wait for a replacement key to come in. This could take a few days however, it's less expensive than hiring an automotive locksmith to do the job. It's more convenient than searching for your keys elsewhere.
Inform the police
It's not difficult to get distracted, and then leave your phone, wallet or key in your car. If you believe this is happening, the first step is to report the theft to police. It may seem like a waste, but it can help police find your item stolen. The police will ask for details regarding the incident including the name of the perpetrator and any other items they may have discovered in the vehicle.
It's a good idea to also include any other items you might have at the time of the theft, like your license or credit cards. If the items are found by the wrong people and are used to commit crimes.
Once you've reported the theft to the police, also call your car insurance provider to file an insurance claim. The insurance company may pay for the cost of replacing your keys, based on the type coverage you have. They might also recommend that you install a car anti-theft device like an immobilizer or wheel lock, to deter thieves from pursuing your vehicle in the future.
It is also recommended to contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state. This will update your registration and title information of your vehicle to indicate that it has been stolen. This will stop someone from driving your vehicle illegally, running red lights, getting parking tickets, or engaging in other crimes.
In some cases you might be able to obtain additional insurance coverage for items stolen in your vehicle by adding an insurance plan for property protection to your car insurance policy. This will protect you from the financial cost of items like laptops, phones or other valuables that you may have in your vehicle. Find out if this protection is provided by your insurance provider by contacting an agent or going to their website. Moreover, you can always consult your insurance agent regarding other ways to improve the security of your vehicle. For instance, you could install an alarm system, and also hide a spare set of keys away from your vehicle or your home.
Keep track of your keys using an app for smartphones
Not long ago the loss of your car keys was no big problem. You could just make a duplicate key and you were all set. Nowadays, cars require more sophisticated technology in order to function. The cost of replacing keys lost or stolen has risen drastically.
There are two kinds of car keys. The first is an electronic key fob. The second is the traditional turn-key ignition. The majority of cars today utilize electronic key fobs. However, some remain with traditional ignitions that require the turning of keys to start the car.
One method to avoid worrying about your car keys while you're traveling is to buy a key tracker and attach it to your vehicle. There are many different devices on the market and some of the best ones include:
Connect the device to your smartphone to use it. If you're out and about, the app will help you locate your car keys by making a sound or displaying their location on an image. You can also share the device with friends and family members so they can assist you in finding your keys.
You could be able to make an insurance claim for lost or stolen car keys according to the kind of policy you have and the specifics of your situation. For instance, if you've paid for property or comprehensive insurance coverage and policies, they may be able to cover the cost of replacing lost keys.
You should also check with your insurance company for home insurance to determine whether it provides similar services. If you have reported your car keys as stolen or lost promptly, they may be able pay for replacing them.
If your car keys are missing, it's essential to be calm and more info devise a plan. If you are able, contact the police department immediately to avoid any further issues. They can give you advice on how you can protect your vehicle and give you a crime reference number. They may also be able to provide you with a brand new set of keys right away.
Call an expert locksmith
In the past the time of keys being lost to your car was only an inconvenience. You could have a spare key hidden in a bag or the glove box, and the only concern was that you may not be able to access inside. However, as automobiles have evolved technologically, so have their keys, and they're now more expensive to replace if stolen. It's therefore important to have a spare key in your possession and to lock your car and keys securely.
Find out if the personal property coverage on your home insurance policy covers the cost of replacing a lost or stolen key. If it does, you could be eligible to avoid paying for the services of a locksmith for your vehicle, and possibly save a little money.
Notifying your keys that you lost to the police is another thing to do. The police can then give you additional tips on protecting your car against theft, such as the use of a lock for your wheel, and will provide you with a crime reference number that will help them track down the person responsible for the theft.
It is beneficial to locate a locksmith who is familiar with your car type and key. Some can make new keys for different vehicles, while others can only repair or replace older vehicles that use conventional turn-key ignitions.
You'll need to provide vehicle registration information and other details to have a new car key created, but this process is typically quick. The dealership will use a computer to review your vehicle's details and create a key for you.
It is also recommended to have the keys reset so that previous owners aren't able to use them. This is a simple service which can be carried out at a locksmith, or even at the dealership. This is a great way to protect your vehicle from being stolen once you've purchased it used.