Here’s What To Do
Having your vehicle stolen is stressful. However, the situation can become even more frustrating when the police recover the vehicle but you cannot open it or start it because the keys are missing.
Fortunately, there are solutions available. In many cases, you do not need to tow the vehicle to a dealership or service centre.
Below are some of the most common questions we receive from Auckland vehicle owners.
My Vehicle Has Been Recovered by Police, but I Cannot Open the Door. What Should I Do?
The first step is to stay calm and inspect the condition of the vehicle.
Next, check your insurance policy. Some insurance providers may cover part or all of the costs associated with vehicle recovery, locksmith services, or replacement keys.
Therefore, it is worth contacting your insurance company before arranging any repairs.
If your insurer requires a formal quotation, AutoKey can provide a detailed written quote that can be submitted for assessment.
Once the quote is approved, we can arrange a mobile service at your vehicle’s location.
Do I Need To Tow The Vehicle To A Service Centre?
In most cases, no.
Many people assume a tow truck is required because the vehicle has no keys. However, modern automotive locksmith equipment is fully mobile.
As a result, our technicians can travel directly to your home, workplace, storage yard, insurance assessment centre, or other location.
This often saves both time and towing costs.
For many vehicles, all work can be completed on-site.
Can AutoKey Unlock The Vehicle Without Damaging It?
Yes.
Professional automotive locksmiths use specialised tools designed to gain entry without causing damage to the locks, doors, or windows.
In most situations, we can safely unlock the vehicle and begin inspecting its security systems.
This allows us to determine whether any theft-related damage has occurred.
What Happens After The Vehicle Is Opened?
Once access is gained, the next step is to inspect the vehicle’s security system.
Unfortunately, stolen vehicles are sometimes returned with damaged components. Depending on the circumstances, thieves may have attempted to bypass or interfere with the vehicle’s immobiliser system, ignition system, or security ECU.
Therefore, a thorough inspection is important before new keys are programmed.
If the security systems remain intact, key replacement is usually straightforward.
However, if electronic modules have been damaged, additional repairs may be required before programming can be completed.
Can You Make New Keys If All Keys Are Missing?
Yes.
In many cases, we can create and program completely new keys even when no original keys are available.
Depending on the make and model, we may be able to:
- Create a new transponder key
- Program a new remote key
- Program a smart key
- Register new keys to the vehicle
- Restore vehicle access after all keys are lost
Because every vehicle manufacturer uses different security systems, the exact process varies from vehicle to vehicle.
Can The Old Keys Be Disabled?
Often, yes.
One of the biggest concerns after vehicle theft is that the original keys may still be in someone else’s possession.
Fortunately, many modern vehicles allow previously registered keys to be removed from the system.
As a result, any old keys that are deleted will no longer be recognised by the vehicle.
This can provide additional security and greater peace of mind after a theft incident.
How Much Does This Service Cost?
There is no single price that applies to every vehicle.
The final cost depends on several factors, including:
- Vehicle make and model
- Type of key required
- Condition of the security system
- Whether ECU modules have been damaged
- Programming requirements
- Vehicle location
Because recovered stolen vehicles can vary significantly, an inspection or assessment is often required before an accurate price can be provided.
For this reason, we recommend contacting AutoKey directly for a quotation.
Can Insurance Cover The Cost?
In some situations, yes.
Insurance policies vary between providers and coverage levels. Therefore, you should contact your insurer and ask whether locksmith services, vehicle recovery work, or key replacement may be covered under your policy.
If required, AutoKey can provide a detailed quotation that can be submitted to your insurance company for approval.
Many customers choose to obtain insurer approval before any work begins.
Why Choose AutoKey Auckland?
AutoKey specialises in mobile automotive locksmith services throughout Auckland.
When a stolen vehicle has been recovered, we can often help by:
- Unlocking the vehicle
- Assessing the security system
- Checking for theft-related ECU damage
- Creating replacement keys
- Programming smart keys
- Deleting previously registered keys where supported
- Completing the work at your location
Most importantly, many vehicles can be serviced without towing them to a dealership or workshop.
Need Help With A Recovered Stolen Vehicle?
If your vehicle has been recovered by police and the keys are missing, contact AutoKey Auckland for assistance.
Our team can discuss your vehicle, provide a quotation, and explain the available options.Free Quote
Simply contact our online support team or call our 0800 number to get started.
We will help you determine the safest and most cost-effective solution for your vehicle.
