Does Insurance Cover a Stolen Car if Keys Are Left Inside?

There are times when Monticello, MN drivers accidentally forget their keys in their car, which can lead to their vehicle being stolen. Drivers in that situation may be wondering “Does insurance cover a stolen car if the keys are left inside?” If you have a comprehensive insurance plan, then you are most likely covered if your vehicle is stolen and the keys are inside. However, this will vary from plan to plan and the specifics of your circumstances. Our team at Cornerstone Auto will tell you more about your insurance options and how you can recover your car and keys if that situation ever happens in the Anoka, MN area.

Does Insurance Cover Stolen Car?

We get plenty of customers asking, “Does insurance cover car theft?” First and foremost, it’s important to remember that regardless of what insurance company you have, most coverages provide some type of compensation for a stolen car. A stolen car is slightly different than an accident in the fact that regardless of the situation, you can’t be held at fault or proven liable (short of advertising, the car is unlocked, and the keys are in it). However, it’s still important to understand the specifics of coverage for stolen cars based on different scenarios – this is when things start to get a little confusing.

Does Insurance Cover a Stolen Car if Keys Are Left Inside?

Does insurance cover a stolen car with the keys inside? In that unfortunate situation, your car insurance may cover your car as long as you have comprehensive insurance. 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. Check your insurance coverage to see if your car has comprehensive coverage if you are worried you might forget your car keys inside your vehicle, leading to your car getting stolen.

Does Insurance Pay for Stolen Car If Key Is In It?

You need to keep one important thing in mind: If you have liability insurance, your provider will NOT pay for your vehicle if it’s stolen.

That said, the exact amount covered could vary, meaning depending on your policy, you could have to pay something out of pocket. Comprehensive coverage pays for a stolen vehicle if the keys were left inside – in fact, the keys being inside the vehicle have little to do with the situation. Why won’t your liability policy pay for auto theft?

A liability policy has high limits like $25,000 or $50,000. Comprehensive, however, has a limit that is close to the cash value of the car. The cash value is NOT what you paid for your vehicle, but rather the replacement cost minus the depreciation. It’s important to keep in mind that cars depreciate rapidly, especially if they’re not taken care of. Your provider won’t cover anything that’s over your vehicle’s policy limit. You’ll get the cash value for a payout so you can replace your vehicle with the exact same type. You’ll also be required to cover the deductible. If your policy has a $1,000 deductible and you’re granted $10,000 to replace your stolen car, you’ll need to the $1,000 out-of-pocket first. Essentially, you’re receiving $9,000.

How Can I Replace My Car Keys?

If you have misplaced your car keys, you can easily get a spare in several ways. In the event that your car has been stolen, you can replace your keys to possibly recover your car. Take a look at some of the ways you can replace your stolen car keys below:

• View your insurance policy to see if your plan or warranty covers stolen car keys.
• Stop by your local dealership for replacement options. Come to Elk River to see our experienced service team as they can help you get replacement keys as quickly as possible.
• Contact a locksmith to create a replacement with your car information, such as the VIN number, make, model, and year.

Does Insurance Cover Lost Keys?

If you simply lose your keys, there’s likely a section in your insurance that covers the price of your keys. Certain vehicles are worth filing a claim for lost keys because the total price of the key and fab are extremely expensive. However, if you have a $100 set of keys with a deductible of $500 – it makes more sense just to replace the keys yourself. 

Replace Your Stolen Car Keys at Cornerstone Auto

Now that you know the answer to the question, “Does full coverage cover a stolen car with the keys left inside?” you rest easy knowing you’re covered in the worst-case scenario! Should this happen to you, or if you misplace your keys, our service team at Cornerstone Auto can help you out. Schedule an appointment for services today. If you want more coverage, Cornerstone Auto offers a You+ Service Plan, a comprehensive parts and services program for both used and new vehicles. Contact us if you have any questions about car insurance and we would be happy to give you all the information, so you can drive on the Ramsey, MN roads with peace of mind.