Professional Car Key Programming in Dartford
If you need professional car key programming in Dartford, our local mobile auto locksmiths will come to you anywhere across the DA postcode area to program new, spare, or replacement keys quickly and reliably. Whether it’s a new transponder, a smart/proximity key, or your immobiliser needs synchronising, we use dealer-level diagnostics to get you back on the road with minimum fuss.
When You Need Car Key Programming
Car key programming is required whenever the chip in your key needs pairing with your vehicle’s immobiliser. Modern vehicles won’t start unless the transponder or smart key is correctly recognised. Common scenarios include:
- Lost or stolen car keys and you need a replacement paired to your vehicle
- Bought a spare key online that needs coding to your car
- Key fob not responding, intermittent, or showing “Key Not Detected”
- Car won’t start and a key symbol is flashing on the dashboard
- Remote locking works, but the car won’t crank (transponder out of sync)
- Replaced or repaired ECU, immobiliser, BCM, or steering lock module and need fresh synchronisation
- Water damage to the key or a dead key battery that’s corrupted the signal
- Need to disable missing/stolen keys for peace of mind
If your fob has stopped working or the car doesn’t recognise the key, read more about key fob not working or contact us for fast help across Dartford and nearby DA areas.
How Our Car Key Programming Service Works
We provide a fully mobile, non-destructive service. We come to your location—home, roadside, work—equipped with dealer-level tools that cover most makes and models from 1998 to current 2025 vehicles.
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Step 1: Diagnose the issue
- We run OBD2 diagnostics to confirm immobiliser and key status, fault codes, and system health.
- Where OBD access is limited or the vehicle is locked down, we can use advanced EEPROM techniques to read immobiliser data directly from the module on supported models.
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Step 2: Cut the key (if required)
- If you need a new or spare key, we cut a precise blade on-site, including laser cut car keys and high-security profiles. For flip keys and smart keys, we supply quality components suited to your vehicle.
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Step 3: Program the chip and remote
- We perform transponder key programming or smart key programming with dealer-level equipment.
- We can add keys, re-synchronise existing keys, or remove lost/stolen keys from the system for improved security.
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Step 4: Test and handover
- We test both immobiliser start and remote locking functions, confirm central locking performance, and ensure the key starts the car repeatedly.
- You receive guidance on battery care for fobs and a brief overview of what was done.
Tools and training:
- Dealer-level diagnostics covering Ford, VW, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Vauxhall, Toyota, Nissan, and more
- OBD2 key programming and immobiliser coding
- EEPROM key programming for selected models
- ECU/immobiliser programming, BCM alignment, and steering lock adaptations (model dependent)
Non-destructive by default:
- We use non-destructive methods wherever possible. In rare cases—complex immobiliser faults, water-damaged modules, or certain high-security systems—limited component removal or advanced EEPROM work may be necessary. We explain options and get your consent before proceeding.
What We Can Program
- Transponder keys (chip keys) for popular makes and models
- Remote key fobs and flip keys
- Smart/proximity keys for push-to-start systems
- Keyless entry fobs and proximity cards
- Replacement keys after ECU, immobiliser, or BCM replacement
- Removal of missing/stolen keys from the vehicle memory on supported systems
Supported brands include:
- Ford, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz
- Toyota, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, Honda, Skoda, Peugeot, Renault
- Land Rover, Mini, Volvo, Jaguar, Citroën, Fiat, Mazda, MG, Dacia, Seat, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Lexus, Porsche, Jeep, Isuzu
See the full list of brands we cover, including model-specific details.
Why Choose Our Dartford Team
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Local to Dartford
- We’re based in Dartford and cover all DA postcodes including Greenhithe, Crayford, Erith, Bexleyheath, Sidcup, Swanley, Northfleet, Gravesend, and surrounding neighbourhoods.
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10+ years of experience
- Skilled auto locksmiths trained in modern immobiliser systems, with up-to-date knowledge of 2024/2025 technologies.
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Mobile and fully equipped
- We come to you with dealer-level diagnostics, key cutting machines (including laser-cut), and programming tools to complete the job on-site.
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Insured and DBS-checked
- Public liability insurance in place and DBS-checked technicians for your peace of mind.
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Non-destructive methods
- We prioritise non-destructive techniques. Any rare exceptions are explained clearly with your approval first.
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All makes and models
- From Ford Transit vans to BMW, Audi, Mercedes, VW, Toyota, Nissan and more, including smart key and push-to-start systems.
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Warranties and guarantees
- Workmanship guarantee and key warranties provided. If there’s any post-programming issue, we’ll return to put it right.
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Affordable and transparent
- Often faster and more convenient than a main dealer, without towing or long waits. For tailored costs, see our guidance on auto locksmith prices in Dartford.
Common Situations We Solve In Dartford
- Lost or stolen keys and need immediate programming for a new key to start the car
- Bought a used key fob and wondering if it can be reprogrammed to your vehicle
- Car won’t start after a battery change or ECU work; immobiliser light on
- Remote opens the doors but immobiliser won’t allow start
- Smart key says “Key Not Detected” or intermittent recognition
- Need an additional spare key for a family member or for business fleet vehicles
If you’ve lost all keys, we can still help. We can generate a new key from your locks and immobiliser data, then program it on-site. For missing or stolen keys, we can also remove those keys from your car’s memory on supported systems to prevent unauthorised starting.
Dealer-Level Programming Without The Dealer Hassle
- No towing to a dealership
- Quicker turnaround than main dealer lead times
- Same location service: home, work, car park, or roadside
- Transparent advice on whether a used key can be adapted or if a new, virgin key is required
- Security-conscious approach: ID and proof of ownership checked before programming
Curious how we compare to dealerships? Read more about car key replacement in Dartford for a full overview of options.
Related Services
- Need a spare key cut and coded? See our car key cutting and duplication service.
- Locked out and your fob won’t respond? Our vehicle unlocking service in Dartford can get you in safely, then we’ll diagnose the key or immobiliser fault.
- Unsure which service you need? Browse all auto locksmith services in Dartford or contact our Dartford team.
FAQs About Car Key Programming
Can you program a car key without the original?
Yes. We can create and program a new key without the original for most vehicles. We access immobiliser data via OBD2 or EEPROM (model dependent) and pair a new key or smart fob. Proof of ownership is required.
How long does car key programming take?
Most programming jobs take 30–60 minutes once we’re on-site. Complex cases—such as EEPROM work, module alignment, or all-keys-lost on premium brands—can take longer. We’ll explain timings before we start.
Can I use a second-hand or used key fob?
Sometimes. Certain vehicles allow used fobs if they’re reset or matched; many smart/proximity keys are “locked” to the first vehicle and cannot be reused. We’ll assess your fob and advise if feasible or if a new key is the best route.
My car says “Key Not Detected.” What should I do?
Try replacing the fob battery and hold the fob near the start button or designated backup area (often detailed in your owner’s manual). If it still won’t start, the transponder or vehicle antenna may be at fault. We can diagnose and resolve this on-site.
Will programming a new key cancel my stolen key?
On many models, yes—we can remove lost or stolen keys from the vehicle’s memory so they won’t start the engine. We’ll confirm what’s possible for your make and model and recommend additional security if needed.
Do you cover evenings and weekends?
Yes. We provide mobile coverage across Dartford and DA postcodes with efficient dispatch, including evenings and weekends. For urgent help, visit our emergency auto locksmith in Dartford.
Is programming non-destructive?
Yes, in the vast majority of cases. We use non-destructive diagnostic and programming methods. In rare situations (severe electrical faults, water damage, or restricted OBD access), careful module access or EEPROM may be required, and we’ll discuss this first.
Serving Dartford And The DA Postcode Area
We’re a local, mobile auto locksmith covering Dartford town centre and surrounding DA locations, including Greenhithe, Stone, Wilmington, Sutton at Hone, Hawley, Joydens Wood, Bexley, Bexleyheath, Barnehurst, Erith, Crayford, Sidcup, Northfleet, Gravesend, and more. We aim to get to you quickly and complete your key programming on-site with minimal disruption to your day.
Ready To Program Your Car Key?
If your key won’t start the car, your smart key isn’t recognised, or you simply want a reliable spare, our friendly Dartford team will help today. We’ll confirm compatibility, explain your options clearly, and provide a free, no-obligation quote.
Need help now? Call 01322 936 972 or Email us.
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