Question 1

Can you programme remotes for all makes and models?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We carry dealer-level diagnostic equipment that programmes remotes for virtually every make and model on UK roads — from older transponder fobs to the latest keyless smart keys.

Question 2

Why has my key remote stopped working?

Accepted Answer

The most common causes are a flat fob battery, water damage, worn contacts, or the remote losing sync after a battery change. We diagnose the fault on-site and either re-pair the fob or supply and programme a replacement.

Question 3

Can you programme a remote I bought online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, however not recommended. The time and cost to do this normally increases your overall cost. We supply and reprogram for you.

Question 4

How long does remote programming take?

Accepted Answer

Most jobs take 15–45 minutes on-site. Older vehicles can be quicker; newer keyless systems sometimes need extended security procedures. We give you a realistic time estimate before we start.

Question 5

My key fob isn't working — what could be wrong?

Accepted Answer

Start with the battery — a flat coin cell (usually CR2032) is the most common cause and costs under £5 to replace. If a fresh battery doesn't fix it, the fob may have lost its pairing with the car's receiver and need reprogramming. Physical damage to the fob's circuit board is also possible if it's been dropped. A locksmith can reprogram or supply a replacement fob without a dealer visit, and we cover the whole of Dorset, Hampshire, and the Salisbury area.

Question 6

Can I programme a car key myself?

Accepted Answer

On a small number of older vehicles, remote fob pairing can be triggered through a button sequence in the owner's manual. For almost everything else — which is to say, any car built in the last 20 years with a transponder immobiliser — programming requires professional diagnostic equipment that interfaces directly with the vehicle's ECU. Attempting it without the right tools risks triggering an immobiliser lockout, potentially leaving the car undriveable. A mobile auto locksmith carries the same calibre of programming hardware used by main dealers and can handle the job at your location throughout Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire.

Question 7

Who can reprogram a car key near me in Dorset, Hampshire, or Salisbury?

Accepted Answer

Either a main dealer or a specialist mobile auto locksmith. Dealers charge a premium, require the vehicle to be brought in (often on a recovery truck), and can have waiting times running into days. A mobile auto locksmith comes to you — at home, at work, or at the roadside — usually the same day, at considerably lower cost. We cover Dorset, Hampshire, and Salisbury in Wiltshire, and carry the professional key programming equipment needed for most makes and models. When comparing providers, ask whether their technicians are DBS-checked and whether they carry public liability insurance — these are the basic markers of a properly vetted mobile locksmith.

Question 8

Can a locksmith get into a locked car in Dorset or Hampshire?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and without causing any damage to the locks, paintwork, or window seals. We use specialist entry tools suited to the specific vehicle type, meaning the method is always matched to the make and model. The whole process typically takes under 15 minutes. We attend lock-in call-outs right across Dorset, Hampshire, and the Salisbury and Amesbury area, at the roadside, at home, and at workplaces.

Question 9

Can a locksmith make a car key without the original?

Accepted Answer

Yes — this is one of the most common jobs we do. Using your vehicle's lock profile and onboard diagnostic data, a key can be cut and programmed from scratch with no original required and no need to tow the car anywhere. This applies to the full range of key types: standard transponder keys, remote central locking keys, flip keys, and push-button smart/proximity keys. We carry the equipment to do this at the roadside throughout Dorset, Hampshire, and the Salisbury area.

Question 10

Can a locksmith unlock a steering wheel?

Accepted Answer

If the standard release technique hasn't worked, yes. We can inspect the ignition barrel causing the problem and repair or replace it at the roadside. In cases where the barrel has fully seized, we carry the parts and tools to extract and replace it on the same visit — no dealer trip needed. We attend throughout Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire including the Salisbury and New Forest areas.

Question 11

Do you operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We cover Dorset, Hampshire and Salisbury around the clock — days, nights, weekends and bank holidays — with no premium for unsocial hours. The same team that handles daytime call-outs covers overnight emergencies. Call the number at the top of the page at any time.

Question 12

Are your technicians DBS-checked?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All our technicians are DBS-checked (Disclosure and Barring Service). We always carry identification — if we're attending your home, workplace or a late-night call-out, you're welcome to ask to see it on arrival.

Car Key Remote Not Working?

We work on all makes and models

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Car key remote programming across Dorset, Hampshire & parts of Wiltshire