Have you ever been caught standing outside your car, frantically searching your pockets, only to realise you’ve lost your only set of car keys? Don’t panic; you’re not alone. Whether it is through theft, simply misplacing your sets at work, or they’ve been damaged after years of use, there are so many reasons that could cause you to be without functioning keys, leaving you either unable to access or start your vehicle.

The solution lies in arranging for a professional to help gain access to car key locks, as well as creating a spare set for future emergencies.

Car Key Rescue is here to guide you on how to get duplicate car keys even if the original has gone walkabout. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process and have you back on the road in no time.

Understand the Type of Car Keys & Locks Found with Your Vehicle

Modern vehicles utilise a range of different key types. For example, Is it a traditional metal key, a transponder key with an embedded microchip, or a sophisticated smart key that opens the door with a proximity trigger?

Identifying your key type is essential as it determines the duplication process. For example:

• Traditional keys are the easiest to duplicate, but they’re slowly being phased out due to low-security offerings
• Transponder keys, which contain a microchip that communicates with your car’s ignition system, are more secure and quite common in modern vehicles
• Smart keys offer the highest level of security, communicating wirelessly with your car to unlock the doors as you approach and starting the engine at the push of a button

Finding your Car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

You’ll need to find your car’s VIN next. This unique identifier, usually found on the dashboard near the windscreen or on the driver-side door post, will hold all the information about your car, including the type of key it uses. Jot down this number; it’ll be the ticket to getting those duplicate car keys.

Choosing an Auto Locksmith for Key Replacement

When it comes to getting duplicate car keys without the original, working with a professional auto locksmith is often the best option. Unlike the dealership, which can be expensive and require bringing your car in, an auto locksmith is typically more cost-effective and provides convenient mobile services.

Here’s how it works at Car Key Rescue:

1. Reach Out to Us with Your Issue: Speak with our skilled technicians and explain your situation, including your car’s make, model, and year, as well as the VIN if you have it available (otherwise, we can find it upon arrival).
2. Our Auto Locksmith Visits You: One of the key benefits of working with an auto locksmith like us is our mobility. Whether you’re at home, the office, out doing a spot of shopping, or stranded on the side of the road, we can come to you.
3. Assessment and Key Duplication: Upon arrival, our locksmith will assess your car and confirm the information you provided. Using specialised tools and software, we can generate a new key based on your car’s lock mechanism and onboard computer system. This applies to traditional, transponder, and even smart keys.
4. Testing the New Key: Our locksmith won’t just hand you a new key and leave. We’ll thoroughly test it to ensure it’s correctly programmed and works perfectly, from unlocking your doors to starting the engine.

What are the Benefits of Working with an Automotive Locksmith for Duplicate Car Keys?

Working with a mobile car locksmith has several advantages:

• Convenience: As mentioned, we come to you, wherever you are, saving you the time and hassle of somehow getting your car to a dealership without a functioning key.
• Speed: Auto locksmiths are skilled professionals able to provide a new key and programming on the spot.
• Cost-effective: Despite the convenience and speed, we have found our auto locksmith services are often far less expensive than a dealership or online key replacement service.
• 24/7 Availability: Many auto locksmiths offer round-the-clock service, meaning you’re not left stranded in the middle of the night or during public holidays.

By choosing an auto locksmith like Car Key Rescue, you’re getting professional, quick, and efficient service that won’t break the bank. So, if you’re ever in a bind without your car keys, contact us directly by calling 0433 933 223, sending an email to [email protected], or sending a short online enquiry.

Ready to find out more?

Drop us a line today for a free quote!