When all your keys are gone
Lost, stolen, dropped somewhere you can’t find it. With no key the car won’t start, and most cars won’t take a new key unless you can show the car is yours. That’s an all-keys-lost job. Before we make a key, we check the car is yours: photo ID that matches the registration, and the registration or title.
The dealer typically has to order a key by VIN and may require a tow. We come to the car instead. Tell us the year, make and model, and we quote the job on the phone before we dispatch.
What we do
We cut a new key to fit your car, then program it so the car recognizes it. Where the car allows it, we can also clear the lost key from the car’s memory so it can’t be used to start the car.
Some cars use a push-to-start key. See push-to-start smart keys. A few won’t accept a new key through the port and need module work at the bench, which we don’t offer yet; we tell you on the phone. Once the new key works, we suggest making a second one. See spare car key.
How it works with mobile service
Same service call as any other job. Your car stays where it is.
- 1
You call
Give us the year, make and model, and tell us you have no working key. You get a quote on the phone before we dispatch.
- 2
We check it's yours
At the car we check your photo ID against the registration, and the registration or title. We note the VIN.
- 3
Cut, programmed, tested
We cut the new key, program it to the car and test it. You drive away with a key that starts it.
What to have ready
- The year, make and model of the car
- Photo ID that matches the registration
- Registration or title (proof the car is yours)
- The VIN — on the dash at the windshield, or the door jamb
Questions
How long does it take?
Most jobs are done on the spot, at your car. A few cars need module work at the bench, which we don't offer yet. We tell you on the phone, before we drive.
Do I have to tow the car to the dealer?
No. We come to the car. The dealer typically has to order a key by VIN and may require a tow. Mobile service skips both.
What do I need to show you?
Photo ID that matches the registration, and the registration or title. The VIN is on the dash at the windshield or in the door jamb. We check these before we make a key.