As the technology incorporated into vehicle keys has become increasingly complex in recent years, so has the cost of buying spares. Main dealers and garages invariably charge in excess of £250 to supply a programmed car remote key.

People looking to save money will invariably search the web and they will find websites offering reconditioned remotes at a fraction of the price.

The sellers of these products simply state that the buyer will have to do the following:-

1. Find a locksmith that is suitably equipped.

2. Replace and cut a new mechanical key.

3. Reprogram the transponder and remote to the new vehicle.

All very fine in theory and initially it may seem that there could be a potential saving of up to 50%, when compared to the cost of a remote key from a main dealer. However, buyers should beware of the following facts before acquiring a used/ reconditioned remote key:

Problem 1. The large majority of Volkswagen and Audi keys will be “Locked” and the transponder chip cannot be re-written to another car. This is also true of Mercedes, BMW, BMW Mini, Seat, Skoda, Vauxhall, Fiat & Honda, as well as most Citroen, Renaults & Peugeots.

Problem 2. Buying a remote key because it looks identical to the one you require.

Peugeot, Citroen, VW & Audi all produce remote keys that can look identical, however, the internal components can vary enormously. In all cases for Citroen & Peugeot remotes need to be ordered using the vehicles V.I.N. plate ID to ensure you are supplied with the correct part for your car. The year and specification alone is not sufficient information.

Problem 3. From our experience at Fast Key Services approximately 70% of used remotes cannot be programmed unless the transponder chip is replaced. This is another cost that will not have been factored into the price.

When considering the potential pitfalls and the extra costs involved, most customers would be better off seeking the expert advice of a qualified locksmith before embarking on the internet. They would get a much more certain outcome rather than take their chances on the web. Fast Keys are extremely competitively priced compared to dealerships and in most cases will end up working out cheaper than buying the remote and finding someone that can carry the work out cost effectively.

Please feel free to contact the FKS Trade Counter, should you require any additional information or advice prior to buying a used remote key.

Email: tradecounter@fastkeys.co.uk Telephone: 01268-562592

The modern day car key has evolved a great deal in recent years, however the majority of car drivers are completely unaware of the technology incorporated into the key that operates their vehicle. This is understandable as in most cases the key looks and operates the way all vehicle keys have in the past, simply insert the key into the ignition lock and turn to start the engine. Although the basic principle of the mechanical key remains the same, it’s there where the similarity ends.

An electronic engine immobilizer, commonly known as a transponder chip, is located in the plastic head of your key. When you insert the key into the ignition lock, the transponder chip relays a code to a receiver, usually located around the steering lock. The vehicles ECU (engine management unit) will then allow the engine to start.

Unfortunately for the car driver this system is so efficient that most people are blissfully unaware of the technology involved. This is proven because, as a key supplier, processing orders for keys cut to code on the internet, we continually receive enquiries and potential orders for vehicle keys from people under the assumption that we can send them a replacement car key in the post that will start their car.

Unfortunately mail order car keys, in most cases, are not possible. In order for the key to start your car it must either be cloned from an existing key or physically programmed to the car using an OBD cable plugged directly into the vehicles diagnostic port. In either case special equipment is required to complete the process enabling the key to start the engine.

If your vehicle was produced after 1996 it is almost certain that your existing key has a transponder chip, there are variations of the systems used by different manufacturers. For example fixed code transponders where the code remains the same or rolling code transponders where the code changes each time you remove the key from the ignition. Remember these systems are passive, you as the car driver do nothing to activate or de-activate the process. Simple and effective in its design, but potentially extremely costly if you don't keep a spare key.

People usually avoid buying a spare key because they are unaware of the financial implications of having their only key replaced. If your only key is lost or broken then the cost of replacing it can run up to £400, and added to that, there is the inconvenience of potentially losing the use of your vehicle for a couple of days whilst the problem is resolved by a garage. Most transponder keys can be cloned or programmed by locksmiths for as little as £30.00, a small price to pay considering the alternative.

So why run the risk? Always keep a spare!