What key programming actually means
Most cars made in the last twenty years or so won't start on a cut key alone. The key has a small transponder chip inside it, and the car's immobiliser checks that chip before it lets the engine run. A key can turn the ignition perfectly and the car still won't start, because the chip hasn't been introduced to the car.
Programming is the step that introduces it. We plug our equipment into the car's diagnostic port, which is usually under the dashboard by the driver's knees, and pair the new key with the immobiliser. The same goes for the remote buttons that lock and unlock the doors: those are coded to the car separately, and we do both while we're with you.
When you might need it
- You've bought a new or used key online and it cuts fine but won't start the car
- Your remote has stopped locking and unlocking, but the battery is fine
- You've lost a key and want the old one removed from the car's memory
- You need a spare key and want it working exactly like the original
- A key has been replaced after a repair and lost its coding
If you're not sure whether the problem is the key, the battery or the car, send us the make, model and reg and tell us what it is or isn't doing. We'll tell you honestly what we think it is before anyone sets off.
Removing lost keys from the car
If a key has gone missing, the car will still accept it until it is wiped from the immobiliser. Anyone who finds it, along with your car, could drive away. When we program a new key we can also remove any keys you no longer have, so only the keys in your hand will start the car. It's worth asking for whenever a key has been lost or stolen rather than just mislaid at home.
Makes we work on
We program keys for most makes and models, including Ford, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, Peugeot, Citroen, Renault, Skoda, SEAT, Honda, Mini and Fiat. Some newer cars need extra steps, so send the reg first and we'll confirm we can do yours.
We can also read fault codes while we're plugged in. If there's a warning light on the dash, it's often worth a quick check at the same time.
How it works
Call or WhatsApp with where the car is, the make, model and reg. You'll get a price agreed before we set off. We come to you, cut the key if it needs cutting, program it, and test it with you: start the engine, lock and unlock the doors.