Key Programming

There are two separate conversations happening every time you use a modern key. The transponder chip inside the key answers the immobiliser when you go to start the car, and the remote sends a rolling code to the central locking when you press a button.

Programming writes your new key into the car's memory so both conversations succeed. Cutting the blade is a mechanical job; programming is a data job. Most keys need both, and a key with only one of them done won't get you anywhere.

Usually, yes — bring it in and we'll try. Two things get in the way often enough to mention.

The first is that the key simply isn't the right one: the right shape and buttons, but the wrong chip or the wrong frequency for your build year. The second is quality. Cheap aftermarket keys fail at a much higher rate, and a chip that won't take a program is nobody's fault but the seller's.

We charge for the programming attempt either way, because the labour and the equipment time are the same whether the key cooperates or not. Keys bought from us don't have this problem — we've matched them to your car before they leave the shop.

It's cheaper and quicker if you have one, but it isn't required. With a working key in hand we can usually add a spare in minutes.

With no working key at all, we originate the key from your car's own data — a longer job, sometimes needing a security code from the manufacturer, but a routine one for us. That's the single most common call we take.

Programming is priced by how hard your car is to talk to, not by how long you wait. Some manufacturers publish what a locksmith needs; others lock their systems down and require licensed tooling and manufacturer approval for every key.

What moves the number:

• Make, model and build year — the biggest factor by far
• Key type — transponder, flip remote, or a smart proximity key
• Whether a working key exists — adding a spare is quicker than originating from nothing
• Workshop or mobile — a callout adds travel to the job

We quote before we start. If your car turns out to need something different once it's on the machine, you'll hear about it before we do it.

Most cars are done in 20 to 60 minutes, including testing every button, the boot release and the alarm.

Some European models need a key ordered in, or a code requested from the manufacturer, which can add a day or two. We'll tell you that on the phone rather than after you've driven over.