Loosing your car key or having it stolen can disrupt your day and cause significant stress. However, knowing the steps to take can help you quickly resolve the issue and get back on the road. Here’s a guide to help you through the process of replacing a lost or stolen key.
Verify the loss
First, confirm that your key is indeed either lost or stolen. Check common areas like your pockets, bags, or around your home. If you suspect theft then be sure to mention this to the locksmith as the stolen keys will need to be deleted from the vehicles memory.
Gather Essential Information
Before seeking a replacement, gather the necessary information about your vehicle:
Make and Model: The brand and type of your car.
Year of Manufacture: The year you car was made.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Usually found on the dashboard near the windshield or inside the driver’s side door.
Proof of Ownership: Registration documents or insurance documents.
Explore Replacement Options
Contact Your Dealership: Dealerships can provide you a new key that’s specifically programmed for you car. This method is reliable, however they can be very expensive and time consuming. It is not uncommon to wait weeks for your car to be booked into the dealership before work can even begin. You also have the added cost of having the vehicle towed to the garage.
Use A Professional Auto Locksmith: At Southend Car Keys we can often create a replacement key at a lower cost and faster turnaround than a dealership. Equipped with the latest software and machines we are able to cut and program a new key at your location, offering convenience and a quick service