Lost Car Keys: What To Do

by | Dec 24, 2019 | Car Locksmith

lost car keys

Did you know that a dealership isn’t the only place where you can have a car key replaced? If you are faced with the nightmare situation of having lost your car key with no spare, an auto locksmith is a cheaper and legitimate alternative to a dealer. Let’s find out more about auto locksmiths and what you should do if you find yourself locked out of your car.

Replacement Car Key Cost

The first thing most people think when they lose their car keys is “how much is this going to cost me?”

The bad news is that it won’t be cheap. The good news is that it will be cheaper if you use an auto locksmith. A 2014 article published by Choice quoted the following comparison prices:

  • Mazda 2 – $480 at a dealership. $365 by an auto locksmith.
  • Subaru Forester – $466 at a dealership. $385 by an auto locksmith.
  • Nissan Pulsar – $330 at a dealership. $283 by an auto locksmith.
  • Ford Focus – $501 at a dealership. $350 by an auto locksmith.

Another bonus of choosing an auto locksmith is they can come to you so no need to worry about getting your car to the dealership.

Replacing Modern Car Keys

Replacing a modern car key is far more complicated and expensive than replacing an old fashioned metal key. Modern car keys use transponder technology (allowing you to lock and unlock your doors remotely) meaning if you lose both of your car keys, your car’s computer will need to be reset or, worst case scenario, completely replaced. If you have only lost one of your keys, an auto locksmith can simply clone your spare key at a much cheaper rate.

Benefits of an Auto Locksmith over a Dealership.

Aside from being cheaper, auto locksmiths can usually replace your car key much quicker than a dealer. While a dealership will usually require you to book an appointment in advance (and you then have to figure out how you are going to get your car there), an auto locksmith can come to you and cut and code replacement keys on the spot.

Even if you’ve only lost one of your car keys, don’t delay in getting a replacement made. Superior locks is your local emergency car locksmith in Canberra. We carry all the equipment in our mobile van to replace keys for almost all makes and models on the spot.