Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our mobile vehicle locksmith services, car key replacement, key cutting, and emergency assistance.
Norfolk & Norwich’s Trusted SERMI-Certified Auto Locksmith
Locked Out? Lost Keys? need spare keys?
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If you’re dealing with an emergency or need urgent support, don’t wait:
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Our expert mobile locksmiths are on call 24/7, ready to reach you fast wherever you are.
KEY Services FAQ
The cost of a new car key in the UK typically ranges from £100 to £300, depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and key type. Basic manual keys are cheaper, while smart or transponder keys require programming, increasing the cost.At AutoWagon, we offer affordable, fully mobile car key replacement across Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire, often at prices lower than dealerships.
Smart key replacement generally costs between £200 and £500, depending on your car’s model. Smart keys require programming to sync with your vehicle’s security system.
AutoWagon’s expert mobile locksmiths come directly to you, offering on-site smart key replacement and programming at competitive rates.
Modern car keys contain advanced technology such as transponder chips and immobiliser coding. This makes them more secure—but also more complex and costly to produce and replace.
AutoWagon uses advanced diagnostic tools to safely program and replace keys without dealership prices.
Most car key services take 30 minutes to 1 hour. Complex key programming or complete replacements may take slightly longer.
Our mobile service reaches you quickly—often within hours—so you’re never stranded.
- Key Type: Basic, remote, or smart/proximity key.
- Vehicle Make & Model: Luxury and newer cars require more complex programming.
- Replacement Method: Duplicating a spare is cheaper than creating a new one from scratch.
- Mobile Service Convenience: Our mobile service saves time and hassle by coming directly to your location.
If your key doesn’t start the car or its remote functions stop working, it likely needs reprogramming. Our mobile technicians can diagnose and reprogram your key on the spot
Usually not. If your key still fails after a new battery, reprogramming may be needed to restore functionality.
No. The vehicle must be present so the new key can be synced with the immobiliser system. AutoWagon’s mobile service ensures full programming at your location.
Yes. Low battery, water damage, or vehicle software updates can cause a key to lose its coding. If this happens, AutoWagon can reprogram your key quickly and securely.
Basic keys might be self-programmable, but most modern vehicles require professional equipment. DIY attempts can cause issues—so it’s best to let our qualified auto locksmiths handle it.
No. Most modern vehicles require programmed keys that match the immobiliser system. Without correct coding, the engine won’t start.
Ignition Barrel FAQs
The ignition barrel is the core of your vehicle’s starting system — it’s where you insert the key to start the engine. A worn or faulty ignition barrel can prevent your car from starting, affect security, or even cause electrical issues. At AutoWagon, our mobile locksmiths specialise in ignition barrel repair and replacement to keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly
You may have ignition barrel issues if:
- The key won’t turn or gets stuck
- The ignition feels loose or jammed
- The car won’t start, even with a working key
- The key breaks inside the ignition
If you notice any of these signs, contact AutoWagon immediately — we offer fast, mobile repairs across Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire.
In many cases, the ignition barrel can be repaired by cleaning, lubricating, or replacing internal tumblers. However, if the damage is severe or the barrel has seized completely, a replacement is the safest solution. AutoWagon’s technicians can repair or replace ignition barrels for most makes and models on-site, without the need for a workshop visit.
Ignition barrel failure is usually caused by wear and tear, using the same key for years, or dirt and debris inside the mechanism. Other factors include extreme temperatures or attempted theft. Regular maintenance and mindful key use can greatly extend the life of your ignition barrel.
The cost typically ranges from £250 to £500, depending on your vehicle’s make and model. Most replacements take between 1 and 3 hours, and AutoWagon’s fully mobile locksmiths can complete the job wherever you are — quickly and conveniently.
