One thing that people don’t always think about when they lose their car keys or smart remote is the security risk that goes along with it. A lost key is not just an inconvenience. Depending on where it was lost, it can become a real problem very quickly.
For example, if your key fob was lost near your home, workplace, or where the vehicle is usually parked, someone could potentially locate the vehicle and simply drive away with it. Modern vehicles are smart enough that once the engine is turned off, it usually cannot be restarted without a programmed key present. But if someone gets to the vehicle before you handle the situation, they can unlock it, start it, and drive it away with no issue at all.
This is why I always tell customers not to wait around hoping the key will magically turn up.
My name is Greg Vincent, and I have been working in the automotive locksmith industry for over 20 years. My company specializes in vehicle keys, lockouts, and all keys lost situations. What many people do not realize is that a qualified automotive locksmith can perform many of the same services as the dealership, often at a substantially lower cost and with much more convenience for the customer.
When someone loses a smart key or transponder key, the solution is not just cutting another key. The important thing is removing the lost key from the vehicle’s memory system. Using factory-level programming equipment, I can access the vehicle’s onboard computer system and erase the missing key completely. Once that key is deleted from the system, it can no longer be used to start the vehicle.
In some situations, I can also rekey the physical door locks if there is concern about someone using the emergency key blade to gain access to the vehicle.
People are often surprised that locksmiths can even do this type of work. The reason is because not all locksmiths are set up for automotive programming. I am a member of the National Automotive Service Task Force, also known as NASTF. This organization governs the relationship between locksmiths and vehicle manufacturers and allows approved professionals access to secure vehicle programming systems.
Not every locksmith belongs to this organization. In fact, very few do because of the strict compliance standards, insurance requirements, and ongoing credentialing involved. You have to operate at a very high level in the industry to maintain that authorization.
Whether your vehicle uses a traditional chip key, proximity smart key, or push-button start system, I can usually provide the same type of key service as the dealership while saving you both time and money.
If you have lost your vehicle keys, especially near your home or vehicle location, do not ignore the situation. In the meantime, I recommend parking the vehicle in a secured garage if possible or using a steering wheel lock until the system can be reprogrammed.
If you need help replacing or reprogramming your vehicle keys, feel free to give me a call. I will always give you an upfront estimate first and help you determine the best course of action for your particular vehicle.
If you would like to make sure you have enough extra copies of your vehicle keys, or have any other locksmithing needs, please feel free to give us a call at 415-453-1300. Greg’s Locksmith is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help you quickly, safely and affordably meet your security needs. Your Security is our Business!
