Can You Make a Claim For the Cost of a Car Key Replacement?

If you have comprehensive insurance for your car coverage, you may be able to file a claim for the cost of a replacement key. It's dependent on the terms and conditions of your policy, though.

Unfortunately, it is not unusual for insurers to pay theft claims without a thorough review of the keys' forensic information.

Theft

The theft of car keys is a major issue since it could cause you to be without the vehicle you need. You may have to find a different transportation option. Fortunately, your car insurance policy can help in this scenario. The nature of the incident, and the terms and conditions in your policy will determine whether or not you can file an insurance claim. For instance, if are in an accident and your keys are inside of the vehicle at the time of the accident it is not considered a theft because the car is used by another. In this case it is best to contact the police and inform them immediately.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, car thefts are on the rise due to vehicles that are not locked and keys left in vehicles. These incidents can result in the cost of insurance for automobiles to be high and therefore it is crucial to understand your insurance coverage and what is covered under your policy.

The majority of car insurance policies do not cover the cost of new keys in the event that they get lost or damaged, even if comprehensive coverage is provided. Some plans include roadside assistance that covers key replacements up to a limit. This is why it is essential to take a close look at the importance of your car's keys and how much it might cost to replace them prior to filing a claim.

Many modern "smart" key systems make use of commercial radio waves to communicate with sensors and control modules, explains Thatcham Research. This system is called the controller area network, or CAN. The thieves have figured out an opportunity to steal the signal and then unlock or start the vehicle from outside. To do this, thieves usually operate in pairs. One thief makes use of a transmitter to receive the signal, while the other is trying to take a key fob.

It's also important to remember that personal property that's inside a vehicle is generally covered by renters or homeowner insurance. If the cost of replacing the key fob is lower than the deductible and future insurance premiums that could be incurred when making an insurance claim, it could be worth it.

Damage

If a car key is lost and is not replaced promptly the owner could be faced with costly charges to repair damaged locks. These costs can be more than the cost of replacing keys.

If you have a comprehensive insurance policy on your vehicle, it can help cover some damage. However, this isn't always the situation. To fully understand your policy, it's essential to talk to your agent and study the policy carefully.

Most insurance policies for cars do not offer insurance for keys that have been stolen. Only if you have roadside protection will you be able to get insurance for keys stolen. In these instances, the insurance company will be able to tow your car to a locksmith for the creation of a new car key. However the driver is responsible for paying for the new key.

Check with your renters or home insurance company to see whether your personal property is insured. You may be able file an insurance claim if the key is lost inside a backpack or purse. However, you'll need to pay a cost of deductible, which will likely be higher than the cost of the replacement key.

In general, it's not worth the hassle to file an insurance claim for lost keys. The cost of replacing a key is usually greater than your deductible. Additionally, many keys are programmed to be expensive.

If you do decide to file a claim with an insurance company ensure that you keep all receipts. The insurance company may reimburse you if your claim is approved, but it will depend on the specifics of your policy.

If you have questions about whether your car or home insurance covers lost or stolen keys, contact your local Hibbs independent insurance agent. We can assist you in finding the best home, auto or renters' insurance to safeguard your family. And if it's time to review your insurance plan, we can compare quotes and help you pick the best options for your situation.

Replacement

It is important to think about your options in case you've lost or lost your car keys. The type of key you have will determine which insurance policy will pay to replace it and how much it will cost. Also, you should think about whether filing a claim with your vehicle insurance will impact your insurance premiums.

You'll need to contact your dealer if you have a vehicle with an electronic key. In this case, the dealer will need evidence of ownership, such as the title or registration of the vehicle to create a replacement key for you. It is important to keep copies in a secure location of your car registration and purchase papers.

In certain situations the comprehensive insurance may be able to cover the cost of a stolen or lost car key. However, you must be prepared to pay the deductible, which is likely higher than the cost of a new key. If you have an ignition that has a standard turn key, it may be easier to get the new one from an auto locksmith or a local locksmith parts shop.

A car owner who has a lost or stolen key can also file a claim through their renters' or homeowner's insurance. Personal property coverage is usually included in these policies and includes an amount that will ensure the replacement of keys or other belongings kept at home.

You could also contact your local garage to see whether they have the tools required to reprogram your car's key fob. Some garages provide key programming on-site which can save time and money. It is important to keep in mind that these companies might not be able to handle advanced smart keys, and you may need to send your key fob to a third-party for reprogramming.

In the majority of cases, submitting an insurance claim to replace a lost or stolen key is not worth the more info effort. The cost of replacing the key fob will likely exceed your deductible, and it will remain on your record. This could result in higher insurance premiums when renewal time comes around.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

If you are a smart owner of a vehicle and you have a spare key set in a secure location. What happens if they get lost or stolen? It's a costly and frustrating situation.

Standard auto insurance policies don't cover the loss of keys to your car or theft. Some policies may cover car key loss or theft under collision and comprehensive coverage. However, this is only applicable if the car was in use at the time. It's not certain that the belongings in your vehicle will be covered. There are policies that cover electronic fobs, but they are extremely rare.

Typically, you'll have to file a separate claim under your home or renters insurance policy for the items in your vehicle to be replaced. However, if you have both policies bundled together it is possible to save yourself some time by filing both claims at the same time.

It's a good idea be aware that even the most secure locking systems can fail over time. This is why it's crucial to keep a spare set keys on hand and to be aware of wear and tear regularly.

Understanding your options can aid in reducing stress. Find insurers who offer roadside assistance plans. They'll give you new keys in the event that you lose your keys. Some of these plans will also offer locksmith services and the reprogramming of your immobiliser without charge.

However, while these services are beneficial but they're not an alternative to the full benefits of a comprehensive or collision auto insurance policy that offers stolen car keys coverage. If you're uncertain whether your insurance provider offers you this kind of insurance It's a good idea to speak with an agent licensed to discuss your options. They can also help you in selecting the best policy to meet your requirements and budget. Contact us today to receive no-cost quotes. We can help you find the best coverage at competitive rates, including insurance for car keys stolen.