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

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

It is not uncommon for insurance companies to pay out theft claims without examining the forensic data of the keys.

Theft

Theft of car keys is a major issue because it could leave you stranded without an automobile. You may need to find another way of transport. Fortunately, your auto insurance policy could help in this scenario. The nature of the incident as well as the terms and conditions of your policy will determine if you can file an insurance claim. For instance, if you are in an accident and your keys are in the interior of the vehicle at the time the incident, it might not be considered a theft since the vehicle is occupied by someone else. In this case, it would be best to call the police and inform them immediately.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, car thefts are increasing due to vehicles that are not locked and keys left in the vehicle. These types of incidents can lead to high auto insurance rates which is why it's important to understand your coverage and what is covered under your policy.

Most car insurance policies don't cover the cost of replacement keys in the event they are damaged or lost, even if comprehensive coverage is included. However, certain plans provide roadside assistance that covers key replacement up to a specific limit. It is important to consider the cost of replacing your car keys prior to filing a claim.

Many modern "smart" key systems use commercial radio waves to communicate with sensors and control modules, according to Thatcham Research. This system is referred to as the controller area network, or CAN. Thieves have discovered a technique to hijack the signal, which allows them to unlock or start a car from outside of it. For this thieves, they collaborate in pairs. One thief is outside with a transmitter device to pick up the signal, while another is trying to steal the key fob.

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

Damage

If a car's key is lost and is not replaced promptly, the owner can face high costs to repair damaged locks. These costs can even exceed the cost of replacing keys.

Insurance can help cover some of the damages if you have comprehensive coverage on your vehicle. However, this isn't always the case. It is essential to speak with your auto insurance agent and carefully read your policy to understand what is covered.

Most car insurance policies do not include coverage for keys that are stolen. The only exception is if you have roadside assistance coverage. In these instances, the insurance company will cover to tow your vehicle to a locksmith to create the new car keys. However, the driver is still responsible for paying for the new key.

Contact your renters or home insurance provider to determine if personal property is covered. If your key is lost in a purse or backpack, you may be able to claim all the contents of the bag. You would have to pay a deductible which is typically higher than the cost of replacing the key.

In general, filing an insurance claim is not worth the hassle. The cost of replacing a lost key is typically higher than your deductible and many keys are programmed and can be costly.

If you decide to file an insurance claim read more ensure that you save all your receipts. If your claim is accepted by your insurance company, you may be reimbursed. However this will depend on your policy.

If you are unsure whether your home or vehicle insurance covers stolen or lost keys, call your local Hibbs independent insurance agent. We can help you find the best auto, home or renters' insurance to safeguard your family. We can help you compare quotes for your insurance policy and select the best option for your needs.

Replacement

It is important to think about your options in case you lose or have lost your car keys. The kind of key you own will determine which insurance policy will be required to replace it and how much the process will cost. Also, you should be aware of whether filing a claim on your vehicle insurance will impact your premiums.

You'll need to call your dealer if you have a vehicle with an electronic key. In this instance, the dealer will need proof of ownership like the title or registration of the vehicle in order to create the replacement key for you. It's important that you keep copies in a secure place of your registration and purchase documents.

In some instances, comprehensive coverage may cover the cost of a lost or stolen car key. However, you must be prepared to pay for the minimum deductible, which will likely be higher than the cost of an entirely new key. If you have an ordinary turn-key ignition it might be easier to get a replacement at a locksmith or auto parts store.

A car owner who has lost or stolen key can also file a claim under their renters' or homeowner's insurance. Personal property insurance is typically included in these policies and covers an amount that will cover the loss of keys, or other belongings kept at home.

You can also contact your local garage and ask if they have all the tools needed to reprogram your key fob. Some places offer on-site key programming services, which can save you money and time. It's important to note that these businesses may not be able to manage more advanced smart keys, and you may have to send your key fob to a different company to reprogramme it.

In most cases it's not worth the effort and time to make an insurance claim for a stolen or lost car key. The cost of replacing the key fob is likely to be more than the deductible, and it will remain on your record. This could lead to higher insurance premiums when renewal time comes around.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

If you are a smart owner of a car, you probably have a spare key set in a secure location. But what happens when they're stolen or lost? It's a frustrating situation, and getting replacements may be more costly.

Unfortunately, standard auto insurance policies do not typically cover key loss or theft. They may offer some coverage under comprehensive or collision coverage, but this is only available if your car was being driven at the time of the theft. It's not a guarantee that the contents of your vehicle will be covered. There are policies that offer additional protection for things like electronic fobs however, they are not common.

Typically, you'll have to file a separate claim with your renters or homeowners insurance policy for the items that are in your vehicle that need to be replaced. If you have both policies combined together, you'll reduce time by filing the claims together.

It's a good idea to be aware that even the most secure locking systems could be damaged with time. This is why it's crucial to keep a spare set keys on hand and to check for signs of wear and tear regularly.

Understanding your options can help reduce the stress. Find insurance companies that provide roadside assistance plans. They'll give you new keys in the event yours is stolen. Some of these plans will also provide you with locksmith services and reprogramming your immobiliser without charge.

These services may be convenient however they aren't able to replace the benefits of a comprehensive car insurance policy. They don't replace stolen car key insurance. You should speak to an insurance professional licensed to do so if you have any questions regarding the ability of your insurance provider to provide this type of insurance. They can also help you in choosing the appropriate policy to meet your budget and needs. Contact us today for no-cost quotes. We can assist you in finding the best coverage for you at competitive rates, including insurance for car keys stolen.