Do you need a replacement key for your car? Have you lost the original and are unsure what to do? If this sounds like you, please continue to read the article below.
Modern car keys are complex things. Instead of being a simple key with teeth that operate the tumbler, they use a more complicated design and some even have electronic components to them.
This means that if you need a spare key you can’t just go to a standard store to get one cut, and if you lose your car keys it’s harder to find someone who can sort things out for you.
What to Do if You Lose Your Car Keys
Prevention is better than cure. Everyone should have a spare car key kept somewhere safe so that if their key goes missing they aren’t left completely stuck. There are really only two options when it comes to replacing a car key.
You can order spare keys from your dealer. Depending on the type of key that you need, this could cost hundreds of dollars and the keys might take a week or more to arrive.
So, if you’re reading this while you still have your car keys, be proactive and order a spare set today so you don’t get caught out.
However, there are some key cutting services that can work with car keys and offer a significant discount over buying a new key from a dealer.
Be sure to get quotes from both the dealer and a key cutting service to compare the pricing and to also check the authenticity of the key.
However, if you’ve lost your keys, don’t panic. If you’re lucky enough then your breakdown service may be able to help you. However, some modern cars have very sophisticated locks that a breakdown service can’t help with.
In that case, you may need to enlist the services of a qualified automotive locksmith.
Note that most locksmiths will want to see your driving license and your vehicle registration documents so that you can prove that you are the owner of the car.
Dealer vs Locksmith
If you are locked out of your car, you have two choices. Call the dealer, or call the locksmith.
For an older car, calling a locksmith is probably the best option because locksmiths can fashion a replacement key at a price that is much more affordable than that of a dealer.
If you have a newer car with a more intricate key, then you may have no option but to call the dealer although there are some locksmiths who are auto specialists and they may be able to help you even if you have an incredibly intricate key.
You can expect to pay a lot of money for this service, however, and even with a locksmith, there may be a delay on having the key made, especially if it needs programming.
Get Your Car to Safety
If you have lost your keys while you’re out and about, then your car could be stranded by the side of the road or in a public parking lot.
In that case, to avoid huge fines you may need to arrange to have a breakdown service tow your car to a more sensible location until you can get back into it.
However, take some time to call a locksmith first, to determine if you have other options. If you are told that your car lock needs attention from a dealer then you will need to take measures to get your car to safety in the meantime.
If you find yourself locked out of your car, be sure to give us a call at Casey Locksmiths. We will be able to tell you quickly based on the make and model of your car whether we are able to help you or not.
If you are looking for the best locksmiths in Melbourne, Casey Locksmiths is the preferred choice for all your locking needs.
We offer a complete range of domestic, commercial, automotive, and emergency locksmith services to all clients in Melbourne and surrounding suburbs.