Recovering a stolen car is a relief, but it leaves an important question: could someone still have a working key? Fleet Locksmiths recently worked on a stolen and recovered 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, deleting the stolen keys and cutting and programming a new smart key for the customer.
This job involved restoring authorised key access after theft. It also highlights why additional protection against unauthorised starting is worth considering before a vehicle is targeted.
The job: deleting stolen keys and supplying a new smart key
The RAV4 had been recovered after being stolen. Our work was to delete the stolen keys from the vehicle’s electronic key system and supply a replacement the customer could use.
We cut and programmed a new smart key for the vehicle. The customer’s replacement was matched to the RAV4’s requirements, rather than chosen simply because a remote case looked the same.
Our Toyota key replacement service covers supported Toyota key systems. The model, year, specification and whether a working key remains help determine the appropriate parts and programming work.
Why stolen key deletion matters
Making another key is only part of the security response after a theft. If an unauthorised key remains registered, supplying a new one alone does not remove that existing access. Tell your locksmith that the vehicle was stolen and recovered so the key system can be assessed accordingly.
Electronic key deletion and physical lock security are separate matters. A missing key’s mechanical blade may still operate an unchanged lock even after its electronic authorisation is removed. Ask about the condition of the locks and any further security work appropriate to the vehicle.
How a Ghost immobiliser adds another layer of protection
A Ghost 2 immobiliser is designed to prevent unauthorised starting by requiring a unique PIN sequence entered through existing vehicle buttons on compatible vehicles. Having access to a key alone does not provide that PIN.
With a correctly installed and armed Ghost immobiliser, a thief would also need to overcome that additional authorisation step to start and drive the vehicle. That is the protection we want owners to consider before a theft occurs.
We cannot establish from this job alone exactly how the RAV4 was stolen or guarantee that any one device would have prevented this particular incident. An immobiliser adds protection against unauthorised starting; it does not prevent every form of vehicle removal, including towing.
Fleet Locksmiths can assess compatibility and explain PIN operation, service mode and emergency override as part of a Ghost immobiliser installation enquiry in Geelong. These features should be understood by the owner before relying on the system.
What to discuss after your stolen vehicle is recovered
Tell the locksmith which keys are accounted for, whether any were stolen and whether the vehicle has visible lock damage or known security-module repairs. Ask which electronic keys remain authorised and whether mechanical lock work is also needed. Follow any police or insurer instructions relevant to the recovery.
For replacement keys, provide the make, model, year, location and working-key status. Our car key replacement service in Geelong assesses the required key supply, cutting and programming before confirming the job.
Automotive locksmith and vehicle security help in Geelong
Fleet Locksmiths is based in Geelong and serves Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast. Our mobile automotive locksmith services include supported lost-key replacement, spare keys, smart keys, transponder programming, vehicle lockouts and ignition assistance.
We are qualified, licensed and fully insured, and a member of the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia. We supply, cut and program our own automotive keys; we do not cut or program customer-supplied keys. For lost or stolen key jobs, have your vehicle registration and matching driver licence ready for ownership checks.
Call 1800 00 3533 or contact Fleet Locksmiths to discuss replacement keys or additional vehicle security.
Product information: Autowatch Ghost 2 immobiliser.