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Locksmith service guide

Car key replacement

Prepare the vehicle details an auto locksmith needs to estimate cutting, programming and remote work.

A town, city or outward postcode is enough.

You contact providers directly. We do not ask for your exact address.

When this service may help

It becomes urgent when every key is lost and the vehicle is stranded in an unsafe position.

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What normally happens

  • Vehicle ownership and identity are checked
  • The correct key and transponder are identified
  • The key is cut, programmed and tested

Illustrative range

£140-£320

Typical duration

Often 45-120 minutes

Illustrative range; premium vehicles and all-keys-lost work may cost more. This is not a quote.

What to prepare

  • Registration, make, model and year
  • Whether any working key remains
  • Your location and proof of ownership

Questions to ask

  • Is cutting and programming included?
  • Will old lost keys be disabled?
  • What happens if programming fails?
Reviewed11 July 2026
PurposeConsumer guidance, not a diagnosis or quote
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