I have lost my car keys and no spare , can i get new keys

I have lost My only car key , how to get a new key

lost my only car key

If you have lost your only car key then in most cases this is easily & quickly resolved. A professional skilled auto locksmith can normally replace lost car keys on the same day they are lost.

theres no need to panic , professional auto locksmiths can respond quickly and resolve the issue in most cases.

But Lets look at the process involved. the advantages of an auto locksmith over the main dealership are;

  • An auto locksmith is fully mobile and comes to your vehicle completing the job at your vehicle, so no recovery costs.
  • Auto Locksmiths are quicker than the main dealer , mostly same or next day, so reduced down time.
  • An auto locksmith is normally far cheaper than the main dealer, even for original keys.
  • An auto Locksmith can often offer cheaper lower cost aftermarket keys as well as original keys.

The first step is the Quote

The first step is to get a quote , in order to get an accurate fixed quote is to provide the following details;

  • Make Model & year of the vehicle
  • Registration number or Vin number of the vehicle
  • location of the vehicle
  • Type of key lost , ie Basic manual key , remote key , flip key or keyless push button start key.
  • Any relevent info such as flat battery , non runner or hasn’t run in a long time .

from this info , your vehicles precise build can be looked up and the correct key part identified.

Most Professional services will be able to give you an exact quote with no hidden charges. So you Know the cost exactly .

Once you agree the quote and want to book the job in.

Then you will be offered an arrival time slot based on locksmiths availability and distance they need to travel to you.

The service provider should confirm cost , payment methods and time of booking with you.

Upon arrival at your vehicle

Once the auto locksmith arrives at your vehicle, they begin with the formalities, so have available

  • Your V5 document and photo id to prove ownership.
  • If your vehicle is a PCP or Lease vehicle , proof of permission from the pcp or lease company giving authorisation.
  • Legal parking near your car for the locksmiths service van

The Locksmith will then begin work.

Gaining entry to the vehicle & decoding the vehicles lock

This element of the job normally takes under 15 minutes for a skilled locksmith

The first step for the locksmith is to non destructively pick open the vehicle, then decode the pattern of the key.

Next they will cut the correct key on the back of their service van and check this is correct by trying in your locks.

the metal key element is then made for your vehicle.

Programming the Key to your vehicle

this element of the job can take up to 60 minutes dependent on make model and year, but most in under 30 minutes.

Next the Auto Locksmith will select the best diagnostic device for your vehicle and system .

if your vehicle is one that requires any special measures such as battery support , then this will be applied and checked .

The locksmith will then perform a fault scan on the vehicle and screen shot this to verify no nasty surprises or issues that could cause major complications.

If all is well they will program the key to the vehicle and verify all is working as it should.

Missing keys will be deleted so they can no longer start your vehicle.

Next they will run another fault scan to ensure no issues were created and delete all non present faults to clean your system.

Your key is now able to run your car , the missing keys deleted and the system is clean and secure.

Conclusion of the job

The entire process generally takes 20 minutes to an hour start to finish , all depends on the make model , year and key type.

the locksmith will then prepare your invoice and take payment once you have tested your new key(s) and are happy .

professionals will also normally offer any relevant helpful advice for your vehicle before leaving.

Key points

  • have ready your details , make , model , year , registration number and location.
  • receive a firm quote with no hidden charges.
  • if offered an option of original or aftermarket keys , make your choice.
  • upon arrival have available proof of ownership.
  • the skilled locksmith should have you back up and running within an hour of arrival, often quicker.
  • Always get a valid numbered receipt/invoice , this acts as your guarantee & gives you an element of proof should an issue arrise.

Because of scammers , its a good idea to pay by credit card , only because this offers you an extra layer of protection.

On no account ever accept a cheaper cash in hand arrangement with no receipt/invoice as you have no ongoing protection or come back.

 

 

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