Hi,
I lost one of my car keys, I have the key plus cover from NRMA Roadside assistance which covers up to $500 for lost keys.
Is it worth using them to get a locksmith out to replace all the keys? Not sure what they charge.
Risk is that someone could use that key to access my car, but I lost it at a tourist spot 30 mins away. No ones handed it in after a month or so.
Or should I just order a remote key from the dealer/locksmith? or where would be cheaper?
Car is Lexus RX400H
OP is trying to figure out which one is cheaper
1) Call out NRMA locksmith to replace all new keys/fobs with $500 'rebate'
2) Order only 1 replacement remote from dealer (same key at the risk of someone stealing the car using the lost key)
Ozb won't have the answer. OP has to find out himself from getting quotes off dealer and NRMA then compare them.
As a locksmith, I can get you into the car, cut a new key and reprogram the car to accept the new key.
https://www.ozbargain.com.au/comment/8550938/redir
Wow! $150-300 for all that or just the call out fee.
$500 may not be enough to replace all car locks and keys.
I'm not saying it won't be enough, but some keys and fobs are $200 - $300 alone. You'll need 2 doors, ignition, keys and fobs (maybe??) plus labour. Doesn't sound like $500 will cover that.
Some cars only have one key lock plus ignition.
Yep - still pushing to get all that work done for $500..
The fact it’s Lexus, is going to also add to the price unfortunately.
If you have another working key, locksmith can clone it.
Rekeying the vehicle will be expensive due to what’s required.
Lots of cars can have lost keys deregisted so they no longer work. Sometimes an option from owners manual you can do yourself, sometimes dealer software or locksmith tools. Removes risk of lost key being used on your car.
Lots of cars can have lost keys deregisted so they no longer work
That's the point I was going to make. The lost key can most likely be rendered unable to be used, so you don't need to replace anything. Just get a new key.
I'd speak to nrma to see what they will cover and who they recommend.
Then speak to the recommended locksmiths to see if they can de-register the lost key and provide a replacement.
It's all software these days so should be possible.
My one tip is be very specific with the locksmith that only a genuine replacement will be acceptable, don't want all this hassle for a $30 AliExpress lookalike.
You paid for a key replacement service and don’t want to use it?