How to find the best car key replacement companies near you
When you want to find car key makers, we can help.
Insert your postcode in the box below. Then, browse through car key replacement companies who show up. Only trades who pass our checks and meet our high standards are on Checkatrade.
If you’re short on time, request a quote and let our members contact you!
Questions about car key replacement companies near you
Why would I need a car key replacement?
If you leave your car keys in a public place or have them stolen, you’ll want a replacement key to regain access to your vehicle.
Secondly, if the original set is damaged, you might need replacement car keys. Over time, car keys’ metal can become worn down or bent, making them tricky to insert into the ignition or lock.
Also, if remote key fobs are dropped in water or exposed to extreme temperatures, they can break. In these instances, you’ll need to get the key replaced as it might not function properly and could cause damage to your car’s ignition or locking system.
Get in touch with a trusted car key replacement company who can create a new set of keys and get you back on the road pronto.
Do I need a spare set of car keys?
It makes great sense to have a spare set of car keys. Here’s why you should have at least one spare key:
Cost saving: It’s likely to cost you less getting a second key from an auto locksmith while your have one working key. There’s normally less work to do and a car locksmith won’t need to access your car or remove any locks.
Peace of mind: A spare car key stored safely in the house will give you a backup option if you can’t find the missing key and you’re in a hurry.
Multiple drivers: If your car is shared between two people, get a spare set so each driver has their own key.
Time saving: If you lose your only car key you might be delayed or miss important appointments. An auto locksmith can usually replace lost car keys within 24 hours but some dealers will need to order a replacement key from overseas, which can take up to a week.
Quick cloning: Some car keys can be cloned by an auto locksmith in minutes. But if you lose all of the keys the cost for a replacement can be huge as the electronic control unit (sometimes called engine management system) needs to be wiped and reset.
Keys locked in car: During the winter many of us lock our keys inside a running car while defrosting the windscreens. Having a spare to unlock the vehicle will save you time and cash so you won’t have to call out a car locksmith.
How much does it cost to get a spare car key UK?
The exact cost of getting a spare car key varies and will depend on the make and model of your car, as well as the type of key you need to replace. Additionally, where you live will also impact the cost.
For an accurate quote, reach out to your local key replacement experts.
If you lose your only set of car keys, the cost to replace them will likely be higher as it means more work for an auto locksmith.
Every year, car keys are enhanced with new features and technology. Obviously, this is great in terms of convenience and security; however, with the addition of this technology, new car key replacement costs are rising rapidly.
Costs vary considerably, from around £160 + VAT to a staggering £8,000 + VAT for a Bentley Diamond Key.
Nowadays, it is very common for car keys to have remote controls, making them more expensive to replace than the previous non-remote car keys. The average remote car key replacement cost is around £320 + VAT
Other factors affecting car key replacement costs include:
- Make of vehicle: Every car manufacturer uses different types of car key and security measures
- Model of vehicle: Different models in the same range might even impact price
- Type of car key: Remote keys, transponder chips, flip keys and keyless entry all come with different price tags
- Extra features: Options such as remote locking and car alarm activation will increase costs
- Location: Price for a replacement key will vary depending on where you live. London companies will charge more than others
- Where you go for a replacement: Auto locksmiths, dealerships and car key replacement companies each set their own costs
- Time of day: Out of hours services cost more than if you can wait til the next working day
Check out our car key replacement cost guide for a more comprehensive look at prices.
How much does it cost to program a car key?
This job requires the skills of an auto locksmith who will have the knowledge and tools to reprogram a car key fob.
There are 3 main types of key that can require reprogramming and these are:
- Keys for remote or keyless entry
- Keys with an integrated transponder chip
- Flip keys and key cards
Some specialist locksmiths will be able to reprogram a cloned key for you in a few minutes. The time it takes can depend on whether or not your vehicle needs to be present. Sometimes an auto locksmith needs information from your vehicle while the new key is programmed.
Reprogramming your key fob may take longer if specialist diagnostic technology is required. Some vehicles require a login or security code or PIN to be entered before or during this process.
The price to program a car key depends on the make, model, year of your vehicle and the process involved. Typically, you can expect to pay between £50 to £200.
Can I program my car key myself?
As frustrating as it is to lose or damage a car key, this is not something you can fix yourself. For starters, you would need to purchase new equipment that costs thousands of pounds.
Add modern security measures and programming to the mix, and the only viable option is to use a professional key replacement service.
Use our free search feature to find a local tradesperson in your area and get a personalised car key replacement quote.
Are lost keys covered by insurance?
Some car insurance providers may include key coverage as standard with their comprehensive car insurance, but not all do.
If you have third-party, fire and theft or third-party only insurance, it’s unlikely you’ll have key cover included.
However, you can usually get car key cover added to your policy as an optional extra. Just be aware that you might need to pay an agreed excess.
When buying car insurance, some policies include keycare. This useful service involves putting a fob on your key ring with a number to call if anyone finds your keys.
How do I find reputable car key replacement companies near me?
A great place to start is by searching a professional trade directory.
At Checkatrade, for example, all our members have a business profile, which helps you easily find the best car key makers and programmers near you.
On each of our members’ profiles, you can find:
- A car key maker’s details
- Qualifications and accreditations
- Areas of expertise
- Customer reviews
- Pictures of past work (before and after shots)
To become a Checkatrade member, all tradespeople must pass our checks and continue to meet our high standards.
The importance of online reviews and reputation
Reading a company’s online reviews is a brilliant way to see the quality of a tradesperson’s reputation.
At Checkatrade, we only show real verified reviews from actual customers. Stringent checks are carried out to ensure that all Checkatrade reviews are fully verified and up to date.
Another great way to verify a trader’s reputation is by asking for personal recommendations.
Talk to your friends and family to see if they have any experience with car key replacement companies near you. Once you’ve had a recommendation, you can see if they’re part of the Checkatrade directory.
If they have a Checkatrade business profile, you’ve found a Checkatrade-approved car key maker near you.
To find the best car key replacement companies near you, enter your postcode into the box below and click search.