Are Lost Or Stolen Car Keys Covered by Insurance?

We've all forgotten our keys in the car. Retrieving them can be a hassle. The cost of replacing your keys can be high, especially if they are keys fobs.

Fortunately Comprehensive car insurance (sometimes called "other than collision" coverage) can pay for the cost of stolen or lost keys. But is it really worth it?

What is Key Replacement Cover in Car Insurance?

Car Key Replacement Cover is an additional policy in a comprehensive car insurance plan that covers the cost of replacing or repairing the keys of the insured vehicle or lockset in the event that they are stolen, lost, misplaced, damaged or broken. It is simple to purchase and settle online. It doesn't affect your chances of an annual no-claim bonus.

However, it's important to remember that claiming keys stolen or lost might not be worthwhile depending on the cost of replacing them as well as your insurance deductible for car. Outdated mechanical keys cost less to replace, and high-tech remote car keys are expensive. In such cases the cost of a key replacement could easily be more than your deductible. If you file a claim due to the loss of keys, it will remain on your claim record and could result in more expensive renewal fees.

If you're looking to buy an insurance plan for your car that is comprehensive which includes key replacement coverage, look for a plan with an affordable deductible or no deductible to make the most of your money. Compare quotes from a variety of insurance companies to find the best deal.

The procedure for claiming coverage for car keys differs by insurer. In most instances, it is important to inform your insurance provider of the incident as soon as possible and to provide any documentation that might be required. You'll also need to submit an FIR from the police which is among the most important documents required for a car insurance claim.

Many renters and homeowners policies provide key replacement coverage. You can make claims under the personal property protection insurance. The majority of homeowners and rental insurance policies provide protection against theft of personal items including car keys. However, the specifics of this coverage may differ from insurer to insurer, therefore it is essential to review the terms and conditions of the policy carefully.

While the majority of motorists are aware of the importance of having a functional and working car key, they don't know that even a functional key could be damaged. Keys are prone to cracks, scratches and other kinds of damage. This increases the likelihood that they will be broken or stolen. Most of these issues are easily solved by regular maintenance and preventive care.

Are keys covered against wear and tear?

Typically, car keys aren't covered by your car insurance policy. Instead, you can purchase an additional key replacement cover to get assistance with replacing keys that were stolen or lost. The question of whether this type of protection is worth it will depend on a variety of factors.

The first thing to think about is the cost of the insurance. Replacing your keys might not be as expensive as you might expect. You can get keys at a lower cost than the insurance deductible depending on whether you have electronic key fobs traditional turn-key ignitions, or both.

It is also important to consider the cost of filing a claim. Your car insurance policy may require you to pay your deductible prior to any claims being settled. If the total cost of the key replacement exceeds your deductible, it's unlikely you'll gain from making a claim.

Another thing to take into consideration is whether your renters or home insurance policy provides any coverage for lost or stolen keys. Generally, personal property insurance that is provided by these policies will include the theft of your keys, in addition to other items that are taken from outside or inside your home. However, it's important to keep in mind that your deductible will still be applicable and you may end up paying for the stolen keys yourself.

You should also inquire with your dealership to see if it offers any specific coverage for keys in the buying process. If you purchase this coverage when you purchase your car you can save money in the future should you need to replace keys.

Certain insurance companies offer essential replacement coverage as an optional feature or an add-on. The decision on whether or not this insurance is worth the additional cost will depend on your specific requirements and the amount you can afford to spend on monthly premiums. Keep the receipts in case you opt to purchase this policy. You can make a claim should you lose or take your keys.

Do I need to file a Claim for a Key Replacement?

If you have comprehensive auto insurance, the policy may cover lost keys. The insurance provider may also provide a key replacement service as an option with a cost. Some insurers have national networks of locksmiths that can provide you with the services needed to replace your keys, or recode your immobiliser, even when the key was never removed from the vehicle. This can be a valuable service if you have lost your keys permanently or have been locked out of your vehicle. Many cars come with electronic ignition systems that need to be programmed in order to start the car.

If your car keys are stolen, you'll need make a claim with the police and submit the first report. You'll also need to contact the insurance company and provide them with the appropriate documents. Some insurance companies will offer a cashless settlement when you visit one of their garages in their network to replace your key. You'll have to ensure that the replacement costs don't exceed your deductible and you meet any other requirements set by the insurer.

In the majority of cases it's not worth submitting claims for a lost or stolen key. This is because the average insurance deductible for a new vehicle is $1000, however your keys could only cost between $200 and $500. If you have a spare, it's generally more affordable to purchase the new keys out of your pocket. You will also avoid the possibility of having your insurance premiums rise in the future due to.

It could be worthwhile to file an insurance claim in the event that the items stolen from your car are covered by a different kind of insurance, for example renters' or homeowners'. This is especially true if you have a low-deductible and the item is valuable or difficult to replace.

It's unlikely but some car insurance companies will allow you to add an endorsement to your policy to cover the loss or theft of the car keys. This type of coverage can be added to the comprehensive coverage. It's a good idea to discuss your options with your insurance provider prior to purchasing a car.

Can I make a claim for a key replacement if I have left keys in the car?

If you leave your keys in your car, and they are stolen, the answer to whether or not you can file a claim will depend on the state you live in and the insurer you choose to use. Some states allow the purchase of key replacement coverage as part of comprehensive or other than collision insurance, but other states do not allow. You should also know that you won't be able to make a claim for your auto insurance if you lose your keys when the vehicle is not locked and the engine is running and the vehicle is parked in public. However, you might be able to make an claim through the insurance for property or vehicle protection on your policy.

Inputting your keys in the car is considered to be negligence so most insurers will reject an insurance claim. In some cases you may be able file an insurance claim through your home insurance, or a roadside service plan which provides locksmith services. Some of these plans may have a specific section on keys that have been stolen or lost. A claim for stolen car keys is not worth filing unless there's a major accident or damage to the vehicle.

Even if you do the filing of a claim for the cost of a stolen or lost key could be risky. If you file a lost-key claim and it is determined that the theft wasn't caused by an event like a car crash or a tornado your insurance premium might go up.

If you lose your car keys It's generally cheaper to replace them than to make an insurance claim to pay the cost of a new car. The replacement of a standard key is relatively inexpensive, and there's a good chance that it won't cost more than your policy's deductible. A transponder or smart card could cost website up to $200, or more, if you take into account the cost of labor and the hourly rate for programming.