What happens if you leave keys in a car and it gets stolen?

Asked by: Marcelle Larkin  |  Last update: September 8, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (62 votes)

If you have comprehensive coverage on the vehicle, then you're generally covered if it's stolen — even if you left the keys in the car. If you're a victim of auto theft, contact your local police station to file a report, then get in touch with your insurance company.

What if I left my keys in my car and it's locked?

Call your motor association or roadside assistance for a lockout. If you don't have roadside assistance call a locksmith, but be prepared to give them ID and proof of ownership.

Is it illegal to leave keys in your car?

No person shall leave a motor vehicle unattended on any street, new or used car lot, or unattended parking lot, without first turning off the engine, locking the ignition and removing the key from the motor vehicle except a vehicle which has its windows closed and its door locked or which is engaged in loading and ...

Does car insurance cover theft of keys?

Yes, depending on your state and insurer, it may be possible get key coverage by adding a vehicle protection plan to your car insurance coverages. And in the case of stolen car keys, property insurance may be able to provide coverage.

Will insurance pay out for a stolen car?

Yes, if you have comprehensive coverage on your policy, auto insurance can help pay for your stolen vehicle if you don't recover it. Depending on your policy, you may also have coverage for custom parts, paint, rims, and other aftermarket additions.

Keyless Car Theft - How does it work?

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Do I have to pay to get my stolen car back?

If your stolen vehicle is recovered, you may have to pay impound lot fees to get it back. These costs depend on your location and the base fee of the impound lot, but expect to see at least a $250 base fee plus about $60 per day for the time the car sits on the lot.

Does your insurance go up after your car is stolen?

Claiming a stolen vehicle becomes a part of your insurance claim history. While comprehensive claims are generally not viewed as negatively as at-fault accidents, multiple claims, including theft claims, can still affect your premiums. Location Matters: The area where your car was stolen may influence your rates.

What happens if I leave my keys in the car and it gets stolen?

Comprehensive insurance covers cases that happen such as accidents and other situations like car theft. So, if you have comprehensive insurance, your insurance company might cover your stolen car even with keys left inside. You can get damages for the car contingent according to the deductible and policy terms.

Will insurance pay if you leave keys in car?

If you have comprehensive coverage on the vehicle, then you're generally covered if it's stolen — even if you left the keys in the car. If you're a victim of auto theft, contact your local police station to file a report, then get in touch with your insurance company.

How long does it take for insurance to pay out on a stolen vehicle Progressive?

The average timeframe for a stolen car insurance claim payout falls within 30-45 days, but several factors can influence this, such as the complexity of the investigation, the availability of the police report, and whether your car is recovered.

Can you report a car stolen if they have the keys?

As others have, yes if the title is in your name, you can report the car stolen. Keep in mind that once you have reported the car stolen, anyone driving it can be arrested and booked into a jail for a potential felony charge.

Is it okay to leave keys in a car?

Leaving a vehicle unlocked or with the key or FOB inside gives a thief the opportunity to take not only the car, but also any possessions inside. It can also provide access to your personal information if the registration is left in the glove compartment.

Does Geico insurance cover stolen car if keys are left?

Liability coverage will never cover a stolen car. Only comprehensive coverage will, whether or not you leave your keys inside.

Will police unlock your car for free?

Police May Not Be Free Assistance

If the police arrive and can give you access to your car, they may charge a fee, and do not expect the lockout service to be free.

How to unlock car if key is inside?

The idea is to try and push the inside door handles unlock-switch, or simply pull on it to disengage the locking mechanism. If that won't work for your car, then the other approach is to use the wire hanger's hooked end to try and disengage the latch. For this, you'll be sliding it between the door frame and window.

Who will unlock my car for free?

They can dispatch appropriate personnel, including police or firefighters, who may have the necessary tools to unlock your car door safely.
  • Reaching Out to Roadside Assistance Programs. ...
  • Seeking Help from Law Enforcement. ...
  • Contacting Local Towing Companies. ...
  • Reaching Out to Car Dealerships. ...
  • Searching for Locksmith Services.

Will insurance cover a stolen car if keys were left in it?

So, does insurance cover stolen cars if you leave your keys inside? The short answer is yes; however, your insurance may only cover it if you have comprehensive insurance.

How much will insurance pay for a stolen car?

Car Theft Insurance: When Am I Entitled to Coverage? Downey drivers whose cars are stolen in Califonia will have car theft insurance if they have comprehensive coverage. That should cover you up to the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of your vehicle. If your car is damaged due to a break-in, you'll also be covered.

Is it illegal to leave your keys in the car unattended?

🚘Don't Leave Your Vehicle Unattended and Running to Warm Up During Cold Weather ❌Leaving your vehicle running and unattended with your keys in the ignition is not only illegal, but it increases the chances of your vehicle being stolen.

Will insurance pay if you leave your keys in the car?

Calling your insurance company to file that claim can be mortifying — will your insurance company even pay for the theft claim if you left your keys in the car? The short answer to this question is yes, insurance will cover a stolen car, even if it was stolen because you left the keys inside of it.

What should I do if I left my keys in my car?

Don't panic, and don't resort to breaking in. You have many options for getting into your car when your keys are locked inside, including a locksmith, tow service, your dealer, a family member with a spare key, or even roadside assistance through your insurer.

What insurance covers stolen items from a car?

Theresa Simes is a Farmers Insurance® agent in Fountain Valley, California. She explains how insurance works in cases of theft from a vehicle. A: It might seem reasonable that your auto policy covers theft from your vehicle — but it's actually your home insurance that would cover the loss.

How long after a car is stolen does insurance pay?

How long does it take for insurance to pay out on a stolen vehicle? The timeframe of an insurance payout for a stolen vehicle varies based on the company. But in general, you should expect the funds after a 30-day waiting period.

What happens if your car is stolen and you still owe money?

Unless you take out GAP insurance when financing a car, you will have to continue making monthly payments when the vehicle is stolen. However, you will be free to sign a new agreement once you have paid off the remaining balance on your auto loan.

What happens if your car gets stolen and you have no insurance?

Unfortunately, if your car is stolen and you don't have insurance coverage, you may be responsible for the full cost of replacing your vehicle. When a car is stolen, the owner typically files a police report and notifies their insurance company.