Question 1

Can you make a car key without the original?

Accepted Answer

For supported vehicles, yes. We identify the key type and security system from your vehicle details, then cut and program a new key at the car. Some models need specialist module-level work, which we confirm before booking.

Question 2

What should I do if I have lost my only key?

Accepted Answer

Get in touch with the registration, make, model, year and exactly where the car is parked. We check the vehicle is supported, agree a fixed price and book an appointment at the car.

Question 3

Will the new key work with my immobiliser and remote locking?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every key is programmed to the immobiliser and tested on the car, and supported remote or smart-key functions are paired and checked before we leave.

Question 4

Is lost key replacement covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Some policies include key cover, but terms vary. Check with your insurer whether they need prior approval or a particular provider before you book. Reimbursement should not be assumed.

Question 5

How much cheaper is a spare than the dealer?

Accepted Answer

Spare keys typically cost 30–60% less than a main dealer – the biggest savings (up to 60%) on vehicles up to 2013, and around 30% on newer or high-security vehicles.

Question 6

Can a spare be made if I have no working key?

Accepted Answer

No working key means the job becomes a lost key replacement, which uses a different procedure and price. If you still have one working key, have it ready for the appointment.

Question 7

Can you make a spare key at my home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for supported vehicles, by booked appointment. We need safe access and a little working space around the car. Workplace car parks are fine with permission.

Question 8

Will the spare work with remote locking and keyless entry?

Accepted Answer

We confirm the correct key type before booking. The spare is programmed to the immobiliser, and supported remote or proximity functions are paired and tested alongside your existing keys.

Question 9

What affects how a spare key is programmed?

Accepted Answer

The model, year, key type and immobiliser system decide the method. Some need specialist module-level work, so we plan each appointment rather than quoting a blanket time.

Question 10

Can you repair an ignition lock at my car?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for suitable faults, by booked appointment. We confirm the vehicle, access and parts first. A few faults need workshop or other specialist involvement, and we will tell you if yours does.

Question 11

How do I know if it is the ignition or the key?

Accepted Answer

If a known working spare behaves the same way, the barrel, switch or reader is more likely at fault. We inspect the symptoms rather than relying on that test alone.

Question 12

Can a new ignition barrel work with my existing key?

Accepted Answer

Where the vehicle supports it, a replacement barrel can be matched to your current key. Any electronic pairing is checked separately, and we explain the options before starting.

Question 13

How long does an ignition repair take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the fault, the parts and any electronic pairing. We discuss the scope once we have assessed the vehicle, without promising a standard time.

Question 14

What happens if I ignore a sticking ignition?

Accepted Answer

Wear usually gets worse and can eventually stop the car starting. Have it looked at rather than forcing a stiff key.

Question 15

What is EEPROM programming?

Accepted Answer

A specialist way of reading key data from a vehicle module’s memory. It helps when ordinary diagnostic programming is not possible, but it is not a universal solution for every car.

Question 16

Can you program a BMW or Mercedes key without the original?

Accepted Answer

For supported systems, yes. BMW CAS, FEM and BDC and Mercedes EIS each need a different method. We check the exact model, year and key situation before confirming.

Question 17

What does "all keys lost" mean?

Accepted Answer

It means no working key remains. Depending on the vehicle, we use diagnostic or module-level programming, and we tell you if dealer involvement is needed.

Question 18

Which vehicles need EEPROM work rather than standard programming?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the platform, year and security configuration rather than the brand. Some BMW, Mercedes, Porsche and Volkswagen Group systems need it; others do not.

Question 19

How much does lost key replacement cost?

Accepted Answer

£220–£470 on average. Some newer prestige models cost more. Your exact price is fixed before we start, once we know the make, model and year.

Question 20

How much does a spare car key cost?

Accepted Answer

£170–£310 on average. Newer VW, BMW & Land Rover keys: typically £350+. Your exact price is fixed before we start, once we know the make, model and year.

Question 21

Do your keys and repairs come with a warranty?

Accepted Answer

Every key and repair comes with a 12-month warranty as standard.

Question 22

Do you charge a call-out fee?

Accepted Answer

A call-out fee applies only if the visit is for diagnosis alone. It is never added to the price of a normal key or repair job.

Question 23

Will I know the price before work starts?

Accepted Answer

Your exact price is fixed before we start, once we know the make, model and year.

Question 24

Do you have a shop I can visit?

Accepted Answer

No. We are fully mobile with no shopfront or walk-in premises. Call, text or email to book an appointment at your car, at home or work.

Question 25

Can you come to my home or workplace?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We cover BH1–BH31 by booked mobile appointment. Tell us exactly where the car is parked when you get in touch.

Question 26

Is specialist key programming available at my location?

Accepted Answer

Yes, by booked mobile appointment across our service area. We check your vehicle, the procedure needed and where the car is parked before confirming.

Question 27

What are your hours?

Accepted Answer

Mon–Fri 9am–9pm, Sat–Sun 11am–4pm. All work is by booked appointment.

Question 28

What should I include when asking for a quote?

Accepted Answer

Your registration, make, model, year, postcode and whether you have a working key. A short description of the problem helps us confirm the right service.

Question 29

Do I need proof of ownership?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Please have photo ID and proof you own the vehicle or are authorised to arrange the work, such as the V5C.

Car key questions, answered

Lost keys

Spare keys

Ignition

High-security & EEPROM

Pricing

Coverage

Appointments & hours

Still have a question?One call – sorted.