If you’ve misplaced your vehicle keys, you can typically get a replacement set made without having to provide the old ones first. The price of this might change based on the method by which you obtain the new keys. Your vehicle’s insurance coverage could even pay for the damage in certain circumstances. The information that you require is detailed below.

I’ve lost my keys. How do I acquire a replacement set?

When it comes to changing the keys to your automobile, you have a few different alternatives. Which one you choose to go with is dependent on whether or not you have access to specialised equipment that is meant for programming fresh keys.

Make a call to a car locksmith.

Auto locksmiths can reprogram a replacement car key for you even if you do not have the original key. Get many estimates from local locksmiths and choose the one that best fits within your financial constraints. Because some locksmiths only specialise in working with products from certain manufacturers, you might need to broaden the scope of your search.

If the locksmith has a blank key that is compatible with your vehicle, you will be able to receive a new key much more quickly than if you went through the dealership.

The majority of vehicle locksmiths provide a mobile service, which means they come to the customer’s location. They should be able to provide you with replacement car keys Bolton and reprogram the remote key fob for your automobile.

Additionally, they should deprogram the original key, rendering it unusable in the event that it is lost or stolen. They frequently have the ability to replace broken locks and keys as well.

You may get replacement keys for your automobile from the dealership.

This is probably going to be the one that will cost you the most money and take the most time. Because they lack the necessary specialised equipment, dealerships frequently consult with local locksmiths for assistance. In most cases, you will be required to travel to their location in order to get a replacement key.

Make use of the breakdown service for your car.

There is a possibility that you may have to wait for a considerable amount of time, or you may discover that they do not possess the necessary equipment to cut auto keys. However, if you have breakdown protection that also covers the cost of replacing keys, you should get in touch with the company about this.

Garage

There is no assurance that the local garage you choose has the appropriate machinery to help you programme a new key for your vehicle. However, if you live close enough, it is worthwhile to get in touch with them to find out what solutions they may provide.

What is the going rate for replacing lost car keys?

Checkatrade reports that the typical expense associated with replacing a car key is 240 pounds.

The actual cost, in addition to the amount of time necessary to change the key, is contingent on the following factors:

The make and model of the vehicle
Which kind of key do you require?

If you own a BMW or a Bentley, for instance, replacing these keys might be one of the most costly things you can do. Additionally, the price can go up if the key you use lets you unlock the car from a distance using a remote control.

What do I need to bring with me in order to get a new key made?

When you engage the services of a car locksmith, you are often required to furnish the following:

A valid form of identification, such as your driver’s licence
The brand and model of your vehicle
The vehicle identification number (VIN) for your automobile
Your vehicle’s V5C registration logbook, which verifies that you own the vehicle.

If I don’t have my keys, how can I retrieve my VIN and my V5C?

You do not have to get inside the vehicle in order to locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), since it is stamped near the bottom of the windscreen.

If you can’t access your logbook because it’s locked in the vehicle, look for any additional documentation that verifies your ownership of the vehicle. Provide the locksmith with an explanation of the scenario; some may be able to assist you even without the logbook in their possession at the moment.

In that case, you could be required to submit an application for a replacement logbook in order to demonstrate that you are the owner of the vehicle. If you apply for the replacement of your logbook online, the process will cost you £25 and take around 5 working days to complete.

Should I file a claim with my auto insurance for the replacement of my lost keys?

If the provision for key protection is included in your auto insurance policy, then the answer is “yes.” Policies that include key protection often let you make a claim for between £500 and £1000 for the replacement of lost or stolen keys, depending on the amount of policy you have.

Check the policy documentation to determine what exactly is covered by the insurance. Depending on the specifics of the policy,

You might be required to make an additional payment.
Your no-claims bonus can be affected if you file a claim for misplaced keys.
It’s possible that you’ll need to get new locks for your automobile.

Get in touch with your insurance provider to discuss the choices you have.