Car Key Cutting & Duplication in Dartford

If you need fast, precise Car Key Cutting & Duplication in Dartford, our mobile auto locksmiths provide on-the-spot spare keys and replacements across the DA postcode area. Whether you’ve got a worn key, want a spare for peace of mind, or need an exact copy for a new driver in the family, we cut and program keys for most makes and models using dealer-level equipment—without the main dealer hassle.

We’re local to Dartford, have over 10 years’ experience, and our insured, DBS-checked technicians come to you with fully equipped vans. Wherever possible, we use non-destructive methods, and our workmanship and new keys are covered by warranty.

Contact us for a rapid visit to Dartford town centre, Crayford, Greenhithe, Stone, Wilmington, Bexleyheath, Erith, and all DA postcodes.

When You Need Car Key Cutting or a Spare Key

Getting a spare key now can save you significant time, stress, and cost later. You may need car key cutting and duplication when:

• You only have one working car key and want a reliable spare
• Your key blade is worn, bent, or intermittently not turning the lock or ignition
• You share the vehicle between drivers or manage a small fleet or van
• Your current key shell is cracked or the flip mechanism doesn’t spring out
• You’ve had minor key issues—buttons unresponsive, intermittent immobiliser light—and want a fresh duplicate before it fails
• You want a backup for holiday travel or long commutes without risking a lockout

If your remote or fob isn’t working, we can also test, repair, and program replacements. See our dedicated page for key fob not working.

What We Cut and Duplicate

We handle nearly all key types found on UK vehicles, including:

• Standard mechanical keys (older vehicles)
• Transponder chip keys (most vehicles from late 1990s onwards)
• Remote keys with lock/unlock buttons
• Flip keys with integral blades
• Smart/proximity keys for push-to-start systems
• Laser-cut and high-security key profiles

We support popular brands such as Ford, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, Peugeot, Renault, Skoda, Volvo, Land Rover, Mini, and more. To explore makes in detail, visit our brands we cover section, including Ford auto locksmith services and Volkswagen key help.

How Our Mobile Car Key Cutting & Duplication Works

Our service is built to be quick, convenient, and accurate. Here’s the typical process:

1. Quick assessment and quote

• We confirm your vehicle make, model, year, and key type.
• We outline options—spare key only, full remote, or smart key duplication—and provide a clear, no-obligation quote.

2. We come to you across Dartford and DA postcodes

• A fully equipped mobile unit is dispatched to your location—home, work, roadside, or a retail park.
• We avoid towing or dealer delays.

3. Precision key cutting

• We decode your key or vehicle locks and use machine-guided cutters for exact blade profiles, including laser-cut keys.
• Worn key? We cut to original specification, not just copy wear and tear.

4. Transponder and remote programming

• Most modern vehicles require programming so the immobiliser recognises the new key.
• We use dealer-level diagnostics via OBD2 to pair the key to your car.
• For certain models and all-keys-lost situations, we can perform EEPROM/ECU immobiliser programming when appropriate.

5. Testing and handover

• We test mechanical operation (doors/boot/ignition), remote locking, and engine start.
• You’ll receive guidance on battery care for fobs and best practices for storing your spare.

6. Warranty and support

• New keys and our workmanship come with a warranty. If anything’s not right, we’ll put it right.

Note on non-destructive methods: Cutting and programming are non-invasive. In rare cases—for example, if locks are heavily damaged—we’ll explain options and gain permission before any remedial work.

Why Choose Our Dartford Auto Locksmiths

• Local experts in Dartford
  We’re based in the DA area with fast mobile coverage of Dartford, Crayford, Greenhithe, Stone, Wilmington, Bexley, Erith, and beyond.

• 10+ years’ experience
  We handle everything from simple duplicates to complex smart key systems on 2024/2025 vehicles.

• Insured and DBS-checked
  Your vehicle is in safe hands. We carry public liability insurance and our technicians are DBS-checked.

• Dealer-level tools and training
  From OBD2 diagnostics and EEPROM work to laser key cutting, we use professional-grade equipment.

• Non-destructive wherever possible
  We prioritise safe, manufacturer-aligned methods. Any exceptions are explained in advance.

• All major makes and models
  Ford, VW, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Toyota, Nissan, Vauxhall and more—cars, vans, and light commercials.

• Mobile convenience, fair value
  We come to you and often save days compared with main dealers. For costs and how pricing works, see our guide to auto locksmith prices in Dartford.

Spare Key Options Explained

• Basic non-remote spare
  A cost-effective backup that opens the door and starts the car (transponder programmed where required). Ideal if your main remote is working but you want a safety net.

• Remote/flip key duplicate
  Includes lock/unlock buttons. We cut a fresh blade and program the transponder and remote locking.

• Smart/proximity key
  For push-to-start vehicles. We pair a new smart key to the car’s immobiliser and keyless entry system using secure programming procedures.

• Key shell and blade replacement
  If your flip mechanism is broken or shell is cracked, we can replace the housing, transfer the internals, and cut a new blade.

If your situation is urgent—lost your only key or locked out—visit our emergency auto locksmith in Dartford page or call us for immediate assistance.

Security And Data Protection

Modern immobiliser and smart key systems are designed to protect your vehicle. We follow strict identity and ownership verification steps before cutting and programming keys. Your data and vehicle codes are handled securely and never shared.

Common Scenarios We Solve

• “I only have one key”
  We cut and program a reliable spare to avoid costly all-keys-lost scenarios.

• “My key is worn and sticks in the ignition”
  We cut to original spec and, if needed, check the ignition barrel. If you suspect a lock or ignition fault, see our page on car lock and ignition issues.

• “My remote shell is cracked”
  We can re-shell and cut a fresh blade, then test the electronics and reprogram if required.

• “My fleet needs multiple spares”
  We provide on-site duplication for vans and commercial vehicles with clear documentation.

What To Expect On The Day

• Transparent ID checks and a brief diagnostic (where required)
• Clean, precise machine cutting—no guesswork
• Programming with approved diagnostic procedures
• Thorough testing before handover
• Friendly, practical advice to keep your keys reliable

Coverage Across Dartford And DA Postcodes

We cover all DA areas including Dartford centre, Crayford (DA1), Greenhithe and Stone (DA9), Bexleyheath (DA6/DA7), Erith (DA8), Sidcup and Blackfen (DA14/DA15), Northfleet and Gravesend borders, Wilmington, Joydens Wood, and more. Our mobile units are efficiently dispatched to minimise your wait without promising specific arrival times.

FAQs

Can you duplicate a car key without the original?

Yes, in most cases. For many vehicles we can create a new key from the vehicle’s locks and immobiliser data using dealer-level diagnostics or, where necessary, EEPROM techniques. We’ll explain the process and confirm availability for your make and model.

How long does car key cutting and duplication take?

Simple duplicates can be completed the same visit, often within a single appointment window. Smart/proximity keys can take longer due to programming and security procedures. We’ll give you an estimated timeframe when you call.

Will the new key start my car and work with the central locking?

Yes. For transponder, remote, and smart keys we cut the blade and program the chip and remote functions so the key starts the engine and operates locks, just like the original.

Do you offer a warranty on new keys?

Yes. Our new keys and programming are covered by a warranty on both the hardware and our workmanship. We’ll outline the specifics on the day.

Is key cutting non-destructive?

Yes. Key cutting and programming are non-invasive. Any rare exception (for example, if a lock is damaged) is discussed with you first.

Can you cut laser keys and high-security profiles?

Yes. We use precision laser cutting and calibrated key machines suitable for high-security automotive profiles.

What if my current key fob has stopped working?

We can test and diagnose your fob, replace the battery, repair the buttons, or supply and program a new fob. See our page on key fob not working for details.

Next Steps

If you’re ready to add a spare key or need a worn blade replaced, we’ll make it straightforward. We’ll identify the right key type, explain the programming steps in plain English, and complete everything at your location with minimal disruption.

• For duplicated keys with immobiliser pairing, visit our dedicated car key programming page.
• If you’ve lost all keys, we can still help—see car key replacement in Dartford.
• Unsure what you need? Browse our full auto locksmith services in Dartford or contact our Dartford team.

Need help now? Call 01322 936 972 or Email us.

Helpful links

• Auto locksmith services in Dartford
• Car key programming
• Car key replacement Dartford
• Contact our Dartford team