Auto Locksmith Costs 2025
When you lose or damage your car key, getting a replacement quickly is essential – but how much will it cost? For a car key replacement, prices start at £135, and range upwards depending on car make, model and key type.
This guide breaks down the average prices for auto locksmith services, key types and why choosing an auto locksmith like Keytek® can save you time and money!
Comparative Cost of Car Key Replacements & Spares
In the UK, the average cost for a car key replacement is £150. But this will depend on the vehicle and key types.
Car Make | Starting Price (inc VAT)* |
|---|---|
Ford Fiesta | From £135 |
Volkswagen Golf | From £150 |
Vauxhall Corsa | From £135 |
BMW 3 Series | From £180 |
Audi A3 | From £170 |
Renault Clio (Key Card) | From £135 |
Car Key Replacements by Key Type
Factors such as key type, car brand and whether you want a branded key or universal key, will affect the cost of your car key replacement.
Key Type | Starting Price (inc VAT)* |
|---|---|
Manual key only | From £80 |
Remote / fob key | From £135 |
Transponder key | From £135 |
Smart key / keyless entry | From £200 |
Key card | From £160 |
Auto Locksmith Services Costs
Other common auto locksmith services include lock outs and car key repairs. These tend to be cheaper than car key replacements as usually no replacement parts are needed! But ultimately the price of these can change depending on the time of day, type of job and whether parts are needed.
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Car lock out services: Prices starting from £80
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Car key repairs: Prices starting from £50
Factors Effecting Auto Locksmith Costs
Understanding what effects, the cost of an auto locksmith can help you anticipate charges and make informed decisions. The main factors are:
Type of Job
The nature of the auto locksmith job will determine the price. Services like lock outs tend to be lower cost compared to more complex services like car key replacements as they require more time, expertise and specialist tools which can increase the overall price.
Time of Day
Jobs outside of regular business hours, like late at night, weekends or Bank Holidays, usually carry a premium in price for the convenience of a rapid response during ‘non-working’ hours.
Key Type and Parts Required
Not all car keys are created equal. You have branded, non-branded and universal options (in order of most expensive to least) and then different kinds of keys such as manual, transponder, smart key etc. With so many variations, the different parts needed for a job will affect the overall price of the job.
Car Make and Model
The make, model, and year of your vehicle also affect locksmith pricing. High-end or luxury vehicles, as well as newer models, often incorporate advanced security systems. Servicing these vehicles may require specialist diagnostic tools, proprietary software, or OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts, all of which contribute to a higher service fee.
Dealership Vs Auto Locksmith
When you need a replacement car key, you generally have two main options: contact your car’s dealership or call an auto locksmith. Both offer distinct advantages, but the best choice depends on your needs—whether it’s speed, cost, or convenience. In most cases, an auto locksmith is the more cost-effective and efficient solution.
Pros
Guaranteed original parts
Official service history maintained
Cons
High costs (often £300+)
Long wait times (pre-book an appointment)
You must go to them
Dealership
Pros
Faster mobile response
Competitive pricing
More budget options available*
We’ll come to you
Cons
May have to order in parts
Some higher end cars can only be dealt with by the dealer
Auto Locksmiths
Pros
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Faster mobile response
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Competitive pricing
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More budget options available*
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We’ll come to you
Cons
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May have to order in parts (especially if you want branded keys)
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Some higher end cars can only be dealt with by the dealer
Why Choose Keytek Auto Locksmiths
Local service
DBS checked auto locksmiths
Fast response times
Same day service
We’ll come to you, whether at home, work or on the road
Whether you’ve lost your only key, need a spare or are locked out of your car, we at Keytek® Auto Locksmiths provide a fast, reliable and cost-effective service.
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Is it Worth Having a Spare Car Key?It’s always a good idea to have a spare car key, some of the reasons include: In case you get locked out of your car You lose your main set of car keys It can increase the value of your car when you sell it Read our blog The Top 5 You Need a Spare Car Key for more advice regarding spare car keys.
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How Long Does It Take to Make a Spare Key?The time to make a spare key can range from a few minutes for a traditional key duplication to within an hour for key fob replacement and programming. But with our mobile service, we can come to you to provide an efficient and convenient service – or if you’re in area drop into our head office (by appointment only).
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What is the Lifespan of a Car Key?A new car key should last anywhere between 3-5 years with the proper care.
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What Information Do I Need to Get a Replacement Car Key?To get another car key cut and programmed, we’d recommend having the following handy to make the process as simple as possible: Car details, such as make, model, year and registration Proof of identity, such as a driving licence or ID Proof of vehicle ownership, such as a V5