Car key restoration
Start with the right replacement.

How does the restoration enquiry begin?

First establish whether any existing key still opens and starts the vehicle. Ask the other drivers and prepare the make, model and year. With no working key available, those details help define the replacement and the work needed for that system.

If a spare remains with another driver, explain which functions it performs. A key that opens a door may not start the car. This information helps define the job before arranging a visit.

Preparing a transponder or smart key

A replacement may need a mechanical blade, starting recognition and remote button functions. These functions should be checked separately. Tell us whether the vehicle uses a turn-key ignition or a start button, and ask what the supplied key will do.

Do not order a replacement just because its case looks similar. The exact model, year and system determine compatibility. A previous photograph of the lost key can help the initial enquiry, but we can begin with the vehicle details even without one.

A working spare changes the enquiry

Mention a spare that still starts the car before arranging an all-keys-lost replacement. An additional key may be the appropriate service. Check whether the spare also operates the remote, so the required functions are clear.

If you are concerned that someone else has the lost key, raise that separately. Changing key recognition in the starting system is different from addressing a mechanical blade that still fits a door lock. Available actions depend on the vehicle.

Restoration cost and immobilizer complexity

This guide explains the work: blade preparation, starting authorization, remote functions and final checks. An all-keys-lost MQB48 job is priced separately from work on a basic immobilizer.

• All prices exclude VAT. Arrival is included in the unlocking range; other services have an additional arrival charge agreed during booking.
• Luxury vehicles, more expensive keys and complex immobilizer systems may exceed the relevant general range. MQB48 prices apply only after the actual system is identified; model name or year alone does not establish compatibility.
• There is no late-night, hour-of-day or day-of-week surcharge. Arrival availability is checked separately.

Arranging work on a rental or company car

Speak to the person or organization responsible for the vehicle before booking. Check whether another key is available and who can authorize the service and attend at the car.

In your enquiry, say who is coordinating the job, whether a key remains elsewhere and what access you have to the car. Ask what vehicle documents or authorization are needed for the service.

Testing the new key before handover

Test the functions agreed for the new key with the vehicle: mechanical access where included, locking, starting and the relevant remote buttons. With a smart key, also check any smart access functions included in the order.

If the old key turns up later, tell us before relying on it as your only spare. Its mechanical and electronic functions should be considered in relation to the work performed. You can also ask about a separate, tested backup key.