Smart Keys

A smart key — also called a proximity key, prox key or keyless-go remote — talks to your car over a short-range radio link. Walk up with it in your pocket and the car unlocks; sit inside and the start button works.

Underneath it does two separate jobs: the remote functions (lock, unlock, boot) and the immobiliser handshake that actually allows the engine to start. Both have to be programmed.

We supply and program a replacement without the original. The car's own data is used to originate a new key, and the lost one can usually be deleted from memory so it stops working.

If your key is physically broken but still functioning, ask about a shell replacement — the electronics often transfer across, which is far cheaper than a new key.

Smart keys cost more than blade keys because the electronics are more complex and the programming takes longer. Beyond that:

• Make and model — some manufacturers price parts well above others
• Genuine or aftermarket — both work; genuine costs more, aftermarket varies in quality
• Whether a working key still exists
• Mobile callout or workshop visit

Genuine keys come from the manufacturer and behave exactly like the original. Good aftermarket keys do the same job for less, and we only stock brands we're willing to warrant.

We'll tell you honestly which we'd fit to our own car for your make — for a few models we won't fit aftermarket at all.

If your car has started needing the key held against the start button, that's usually a flat key battery rather than a failed key. It's a cheap fix and takes minutes.

Intermittent unlocking, short range, or a key that only works right beside the door normally points the same way. Bring it in before it strands you.