Auto locksmith or dealership for a replacement car key?

Who should I contact first?

Need someone to come to the parked car? Ask an automotive locksmith whether it can supply, program and test a replacement on-site for your exact make, model, year and key system. If that cannot be confirmed, ask an authorised dealership about the correct part, programming, owner checks and any transport required. Neither route is automatically cheaper or faster; compare the complete written quote and confirmed capability before booking.

What to ask an automotive locksmith

Can you make and program a replacement for my exact car? Does the answer change if every key is lost? Can you attend the vehicle, or would I need to bring it to a workshop? Ask which parts and key functions will be supplied and tested.

Eligible independent repairers can request some manufacturer information through Australia's motor-vehicle service information scheme, but restricted security information has extra conditions. Ford directs eligible third-party repairers seeking its key-code information to the AASRA process. That doesn't confirm an individual locksmith has the right credentials, tools or parts for your vehicle.

What to ask the dealership

Can you order the correct replacement for my make, model and year? What owner verification is required, and must the car be brought in? Mazda's dealer guidance describes using the VIN and verifying ownership when ordering a replacement. Confirm part availability, transport and the written total directly with the dealership.

Compare the answers

Capability: has each provider confirmed support for your exact vehicle and whether a working key remains?

Work: does the quote cover the correct part, cutting, programming, unlocking and starting the vehicle, and remote functions where relevant?

Place and timing: can they work where the car is parked? If not, what transport is needed, and when could the work happen?

Price and conditions: compare included travel, GST, testing, any additional work and what happens if programming cannot be completed. Ask for approval before extra charges arise.

Check credentials and ownership requirements

If a locksmith claims an AASRA Vehicle Security Professional credential, ask whose credential it is and confirm the claim directly with AASRA. The credential supports access to certain restricted vehicle-security information; it does not guarantee that person can program a key for your car.

If a provider claims a Victorian private-security licence, check its name, licence number and authorised activity on the Victoria Police public register. That register is for specified regulated private-security work, not a universal automotive-locksmith licence. Ask the provider to confirm the exact job it can do.

Give your VIN and proof of ownership directly to the chosen provider through its secure process, not to Services Explained.