Not many things are more stressful than getting ready for a trip only to realize you’ve lost your car keys. Replacing a car key can be costly, especially for newer, sophisticated transponder keys. So does car insurance cover lost keys? Here’s what you need to know.
Does car insurance cover lost key fobs?
Most car insurance policies will not cover lost keys. The specifics will vary depending on your own insurance policy, but in general keys do not fall under comprehensive or collision coverage.
| Comprehensive coverage may cover: | Collision coverage may cover: |
| Natural disasters and storms | Hitting another vehicle |
| Vandalism | Damage caused by another vehicle |
| Damage caused by animals | Hitting a stationary object |
While expensive to replace, most modern car key fobs will not cost more than your comprehensive coverage’s deductible. A deductible is your share of the cost in the event of a claim. It’s what you pay “out of pocket” before your insurance starts paying.
Even if your insurance policy covers lost keys, it may not be worth filing an insurance claim to replace your lost key fob.
Coverage for lost keys
Most car insurance policies do not cover car keys, unless otherwise stated. Some insurers may offer car key coverage as an additional coverage option, but it is typically not included in comprehensive or collision coverage.
Coverage for lost keys may be offered by the dealership when you purchase your car. This coverage is likely not associated with your own auto insurance policy.
What to do if you lose your keys
Roadside assistance can help pay for lockout services to get you back into your car. It can also help pay to tow your car to a shop or dealer to get a new key. However, the cost of replacing the key itself is not usually covered.
How to replace lost keys
Replacing a lost key can be tricky, but there are solutions. If you lose your only copy of your car keys, you can either go to a dealership or call a reputable locksmith.
Most dealerships have access to a database that allows them to cut and program a replacement key. In some cases, they may need to access the inside of your car to program the new key.
A mobile locksmith may also be able to help. Many locksmiths can come to your location and cut a key for your vehicle and program a chip on the spot. Some vehicles with advanced key fobs or transponders may require a dealership to program them. In general, it’s more economical to call a mobile locksmith than to go to the dealership.
How to prevent losing your keys
While no one expects to lose their keys, there are some tricks and habits to adopt to help prevent losing them in the future. Here are a few tips to help prevent those instances of forgetfulness.
Make a Backup
Get your replacement key made before you need it. Have a backup key stored in a safe place in your house. Many cars come with multiple keys when you purchase them. If you only received one when you bought your car, one of the first things you should do is to get a backup made.
Settle Down
If you’re the type of person who sets their keys on the first surface you see, consider making a designated spot to put your keys. Put a key hook on the wall or a valet dish on the kitchen counter so you always know where to check for your keys first.
Double-check
Make a habit of checking your pocket or purse for your personal belongings whenever you get ready to leave a place. A habit of quickly double-checking can help pinpoint exactly where you dropped your keys if you did.
Trackers
You can also purchase tracking tags that you can attach to your keychain. A GPS tracking tag can help you find exactly where your keys are if you lose them. Some can even play a sound to help you locate them.
FAQs
It is possible to get a new key even if you don’t have the original. A locksmith cut a new key for you, or you can go to a dealership. In most cases, you just need to provide documentation that you own the car.
Some locksmiths are also able to program keys on most vehicles. However, they will typically need access to the inside of your car. Some vehicles may not allow third parties to reprogram a key, and would require a dealership to do the work.
Conclusion: Does car insurance cover lost keys?
It’s unlikely that your car insurance will cover lost or damaged keys. The best way to prevent hassle when it comes to your keys is to make sure you always have a spare. Practicing good habits when it comes to your keys like putting them in the same place each time and attaching a tracking tag can help make sure you don’t lose your keys in the future.
