Car Key Stolen But Not Car
We all know that you should never leave your keys in the car, but sometimes you forget. If you've forgotten and your keys are taken however the car remains in its place, here's what you can do.
You'll need to first contact the police. This will help ensure that anyone who finds your keys isn't using them to commit the crime.
Buy a new set keys
Losing your car keys can be a hassle and a risk no matter if it's because of a moment of forgetfulness or when someone steals them. You'll not only be unable to reach where you want to go and you'll have to spend money and effort to replace your keys. The good thing is that it's no longer as complicated or costly to replace a key.
Check with your insurance company or warranty provider to find out whether you're protected for the loss of your car key. Bring proof of ownership to the locksmith if it is covered. They will then be able work with the number of your vehicle identification (commonly referred to as the VIN), which they can use to make a new key for your car without the original.
Traditional or mechanical keys for cars are the most straightforward type of car key to replace. They can be made on the spot at your local locksmith, and are usually less expensive than other kinds of keys. However, if the car has chip or transponder you'll have to visit the dealer instead.
A transponder is a small chip that is inside the car key that emits an unique code each time it comes in contact with the vehicle. This is a safer method of starting your car and reduces the risk of theft, but it's a bit more complicated than simply cutting a standard key.
Only the dealer can issue you a replacement transponder key if you lose it. They can do this because they have documents of the security systems installed in every car and are able to locate the information.
If you don't have a spare keys, contact your dealer as soon as possible. They may be able to make you a new one immediately or they may have to wait for a replacement to come in. It could take a few weeks, but it's still cheaper than hiring locksmith. It's much more convenient than looking for your keys elsewhere.
Report the theft to police
It's easy to get distracted, and leave your wallet, phone or keys in your car. If you believe this has happened, the first step is to notify the police. It may seem as a waste of your time, but it could assist law enforcement in tracking down the item that was stolen. The police will request details regarding the incident including the name of the person who committed the crime and any other items they may have discovered in the vehicle.
It could be an excellent idea to include any other items that you might have on you at the time of the theft, such as your license or credit cards. In certain instances when the items end up in the wrong hands they could be used to commit other crimes.
After you've reported the theft to the police, you must contact your insurance provider to file an insurance claim. Your insurer may cover the cost to replace your keys, based on the type of insurance coverage you have. They might also recommend you to install an anti-theft device, like an immobilizer or wheel lock to discourage thieves from pursuing your vehicle in the future.
You should also contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state. This will update your car's title and registration information to show the fact that it was stolen. This will stop someone else from driving your vehicle in violation of the law and running red lights, obtaining parking tickets, or other offenses with it.
In some cases, you might be able to obtain additional coverage for stolen items in your vehicle by adding an insurance plan for property protection to your car insurance policy. This can protect you against more info the financial burdens of things like laptops or phones that you may keep in your car. Find out whether your insurance company offers this service by talking to a representative or visiting the website of your provider. You can also inquire from your agent about other options to increase the security of your vehicle. Installing an alarm system is a way to enhance the security of your vehicle. Another option is to put a spare key set away from your home or vehicle.
Track your keys using an app on your smartphone
In the past the time when you lost your car keys was not a big deal. You could get a duplicate key made and you were in good shape. Modern automobiles require more advanced technology to function. This means that the cost to replace keys for cars stolen or lost has increased dramatically.
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 cars today utilize electronic key fobs. However, a few still have standard ignitions which require turning a key to start the vehicle.
One method to avoid worrying about your car keys when you're traveling is to buy a key tracker and attach it to your vehicle. There are many devices that are available. Some of the best include:
Pair the device with your smartphone to use it. Then, when you're on the go the app will assist you in finding your car keys by emitting a sound or showing their location on a map. It is possible to share the device with family and friends so they can find your keys.
You could be able to submit an insurance claim for your keys stolen or lost from your car, depending on the type of policy you have and the specifics of your specific situation. If you have comprehensive or property insurance, it could cover the cost to replace keys that were lost.
It's also worth checking with your home insurer to see whether they provide similar services. If you report your car keys as lost or stolen promptly, they may be able refund the cost of replacing the keys.
In the end, if your car keys have gone missing, it's important to stay calm and work on a plan of action. If you can, call the police department right away to avoid further complications. They will give you tips on how to safeguard your vehicle and will provide you with a reference number. They may even be able to provide you with a new set of keys immediately.
Call a locksmith
In the past, losing your keys to your car was only an issue. You could have a spare key hidden in a bag or the glove box, and your sole concern was that you might not be able to get back inside. As cars have become more advanced in technology, so too are their keys. They're increasingly expensive to replace when they are stolen. It's therefore essential to have a spare key and to lock your car and keys securely.
You should also determine if personal property coverage on your home insurance policy will cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. You may be able to save money by not having to pay for an auto locksmith.
Another thing to do after your keys are lost is to report them to police. The police will then be able give you additional tips on safeguarding your vehicle against theft, such as the use of a lock for your wheel, and they'll give you a crime reference number that will help them to track down the culprit.
It is a good thing to find a locksmith that knows your car type and key. Certain locksmiths can make keys for a variety of automobile models, whereas others are only able to repair and replace older cars that have standard turn-key ignitions.
It is not unusual to receive a new 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 thinking about having the keys for your car changed to ensure that the previous owners aren't able to use them. This is a service is available from a dealer or locksmith. It's a great method to protect yourself from the possibility of your car being stolen after having bought it second-hand.