Car keys in simple terminology
Car keys start off the same as ordinary house keys: a set of teeth that slide right into the barrel if cut correctly. But these keys and locks can be easily compromised in this day and age, so to make cars harder to steal, manufacturers added another layer of security: the transponder.
Transponder chips are tiny chips that hold a small amount of unique data for each car. They talk to your vehicle's immobiliser. If the chip is missing, or it fails and stops responding, the car stays in an 'immobilised' state and turning the key will just make it refuse to start.
What happens if I lose all my keys?
This is where things get tricky! Now you know how car keys work, you can see why a second key makes sense. With no key at all, a locksmith has to come to you, open the car without damage, identify the lock's cuts, cut a new key on site, pull the data from your vehicle, write it to the new key and, if your car has remote locking, program the remote too. Cloning an existing key is quicker and cheaper, so if you're down to one, get a spare now.
What cars are supported?
Fortunately, almost every car can be done. In our case that's around 99% of cars currently on UK roads. If we ever can't, the main dealer can still program a key with manufacturer equipment, just at a higher premium. And with our no fix, no fee policy, you won't pay us for trying.
Proof of ownership
For all-keys-lost jobs and immobiliser work we ask to see the V5C logbook and photo ID. Genuine owners never mind, and it keeps everyone's car safer.
Questions people ask
How much is a spare car key in Peterborough?
A spare transponder key starts from £60 and a remote key from £120. The final price depends on the make, model and key type; smart/keyless keys are quoted per car. Call 07305 010508 with your reg for an exact price.
Can you make a key if I've lost all of them?
Yes. We open the car without damage, cut a key to the lock, read the security data and program a new key on the spot. We can also delete the lost keys so they no longer start the car. Proof of ownership is required.
Is it cheaper than the main dealer?
Usually much cheaper and much quicker. Dealers often need to order a key from abroad and book you in; we come to you and most jobs are done within the hour.
Do you need my V5C?
For all-keys-lost and immobiliser work, yes, we need proof of ownership (V5C plus photo ID matching the name and address). It protects you, and it keeps the cars on our roads in the right hands.
What if you can't do my car?
No fix, no fee. If we can't make your key work, you don't pay for our time. Around 99% of cars on UK roads are covered.