Wynns Locksmiths

Our dedicated automotive team have filled us in on some of the most commonly asked questions about car keys. Getting replacement keys for your car can be expensive and tricky. As all makes and models of cars have different key programming, and come in different shapes and sizes, it means there isn’t one standard. Please contact us with the make and model of your car and your question for a specific and tailored answer.

CAN I GET A NEW KEY FOR MY CAR?

The simple answer is yes! In most situations a locksmith will be able to assist you with sorting a new car key. If you have an existing working car key it is generally quicker and easier for a locksmith to create a new key for you. Without any key the locksmith will need to decode your cars computer system with diagnostic equipment and imprint your locks to be able to code the key required correctly.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A TRANSPONDER KEY?

If your car was made from 1998 onward there is a good chance it has a transponder chip in it. These were introduced in Australia around 1996 to deter vehicle theft. The chip in a transponder key communicates with the cars computer system. The transponder key is what communicates with your cars immobiliser. It is this system which prevents the wrong key operating in the car.

HOW MUCH DOES A NEW CAR KEY COST?

The price of a new car key depends on the type of car key you have. Generally it’s cheaper to visit a locksmith than it is to go through your car dealership. However some car keys can only be supplied by the dealership.
Car keys from Wynns Locksmiths are from $120 depending on the make and model of the vehicle. It’s also cheaper to arrange a spare or new car key before there is an emergency. It will cost more to have a locksmith come to you on site and when you don’t have an existing key.

In 2016 DRIVE.COM.AU conducted a survey of dealerships to find out how much car keys cost to replace.

DO YOU CHANGE CAR KEY REMOTE BATTERIES

Yes! We stock a range of batteries for car key remotes and are able to change these on the spot for you. If your car key uses a replaceable battery we will change it for you. However please be aware that some keys have their batteries soldered inside on their boards. If this is the case we can offer to cut you a new replacement key instead.

CAN YOU REPLACE SMART KEYS?

Smart keys, key-less entry, or push button start key systems use the smart key technology. In 1998 Keyless Entry / Go was first introduced by Mercedes-Benz in the S-Class car series. Over the last 20 years we have seen this technology increase in usage and no longer be a feature exclusive to high end car models. Smart keys are now being used in most new vehicles found on a dealership lot.

At this time, we are able to replace and provide new smart keys for some makes and models. Our automotive department is investigating the options that are starting to become available. We are working on being able to offer consumers an alternative to having to return to their car dealership for keys. Some of these solutions have only become available over the last year. If you have a smart key which you need replaced please contact us to see if we are able to assist you.