We know that having something stolen is never enjoyable, however we want to bring to your attention a situation when vehicle keys have been taken as part of a house burglary for example.

Whilst the vehicle might not be taken at the same time, the thieves who have taken the vehicle keys may come back at a later time to take it. Regardless of whether the vehicle is parked outside the house or other places like on a nearby road or at a workplace.

 

Help keep your car keys and vehicle safe

Taking preventative matters in the first place can help reduce the chance of experiencing the loss of your vehicle. These can include:

  • Not leaving your keys in the open and visible around your home.
  • Keeping your spare set of keys hidden in a secure place. Ideally in a safe.

Further to that we recommend storing smart keys at home in a signal-blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag, and check if the bag or pouch is still working every few months. Especially if your vehicle is not parked inside a locked garage.

Even if thieves don’t have your key, they can use a relay tracking device to fool the vehicle into thinking the key is close by. This unlocks the vehicle and starts the ignition. Thieves only need to be within a few metres of your vehicle key to capture the signal, even if it’s inside your home.


What to do if your car keys are stolen or lost

If your vehicle keys have been stolen we recommend the following steps. Many of these steps are also good to follow if you lose your vehicle keys:

  • If you have a spare set of keys, move your vehicle to a secure, locked garage as soon as possible. Or alternatively away from your home or workplace, where it is normally parked - maybe at a friend’s place.
  • Use a steering wheel lock or wheel clamp to further secure the vehicle.
  • Call the police and get a crime reference number, as this will be needed for any insurance claim.
  • Contact your motor vehicle insurance company to make them aware that your vehicle keys have been stolen.
  • Replace the locks on your vehicle or have your vehicle smart keys reprogrammed. We also recommend this when buying a second hand vehicle.

 

If you have Motor Vehicle Insurance with Assurant, and have your keys stolen, please Contact our Motor Claims team for further assistance.