1. The best way is to order professional car Locksmith
Cheapest way – This is usually the least expensive car locksmith will have all the equipment to replace all types of keys and for most vehicle manufacturers models as well.
For example, some garage’s charge a fee just to use their diagnostic software which is used to programmed car keys.
Most likely fastest way – As most offer a mobile service (they can visit you) and are experts with vehicle key and locks, they will be the quickest.
Some car locksmiths sometimes carry key programming equipment, they will be able to replace keys for nearly all models and makes of cars. They usually fix it in one visit, can delete old keys so they no longer work (for transponder type keys).
professional car locksmith can also help with:
If you are locked out of your car at the same time, they will be able to open the car door and:
Replace lost keys – If you don’t have the original key
Cut & Copy Vehicle Keys – Provide a spare car key
Program Remote Car Key Fobs
Opening Cars – Opening locked vehicles (e.g. if keys locked inside)
Vehicle Locks – Change and repair damaged locks
Repair keys – they can repair damaged or broken keys
2. Car Insurance Provider
Could be very expensive – Car keys are sometimes not covered by insurance companies and it may depend on particular circumstances as to whether your policy covers you; each insurance company will have different terms and conditions
Also, note claiming on your insurance may affect your no claims bonus, so could cost you in the long run.
3. Vehicle Breakdown Service or roadside assistance services
Could be slow – Some roadside assistance services may able to help, but this can depend on the type of vehicle key you need replacing and the equipment the roadside assistance service has onboard their vehicle.
Depending on if the roadside service has the correct key coding equipment you could be in for a long wait.
It is why car locksmiths are usually the fastest option due to the large amount of vehicle diagnostic and expensive car key coding equipment they carry.
A lot of breakdown services use car locksmith to complete the work, so going directly to the locksmith will be the cheapest option.
Not experts in keys and locks – they also may not have the expertise that an auto locksmith has in dealing with specific keys and lock types.
4. Car Dealership
The most expensive way – Going to your vehicle dealership may be the most expensive option and could take the longest, unlike an auto locksmith, the car dealer will not necessarily have all the specialist equipment and won’t be able to visit you.
Slowest method – As the dealership may have to order in the key blank this may mean a length of time before they are able to help. Also, a lot will not have the necessary key programming & diagnostic equipment on site.
Also a lot of car dealerships use the services of specialist auto locksmiths themselves.
5. Local Garage
Expensive & Slow – The last option could be a garage local to you, although this could end up being expensive due to most garages charging to use the diagnostic equipment.
Garages may well not have the specialist key coding equipment on-site that an auto locksmith carries.
You may also find it very difficult to find a garage who actually can replace and program new car keys as it’s a very specialist area, so it may not be the best choice if you are in hurry.