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Car key replacement

Locked out or missing your car keys?

Our one-off Key Assist service can help if you’re locked out or need a replacement car key.

Chat to us for a quote
keys-on-table

How Key Assist works

It's easy to get a replacement car key cut and programmed, or regain access to your vehicle if you're locked out. You don't need to be an AA member to use Key Assist.

Step 1

Get a quote

Chat to us for a quote and to book a technician. We'll collect a few details about your vehicle and key issue.
Step 2

We'll come to you

We'll confirm your location and send a mobile technician to you, whether you're at home, work or in a car park.
Step 3

We'll make your key

Our technician will copy the key or fob from your vehicle and use specialist equipment to cut and programme a replacement.
Step 4

Get back on the road

If you're locked out, we'll help you get back in your vehicle. We can usually cut and programme a replacement key in around 40 minutes.

Chat to us for a quote

Chat to us for a quote

Why choose Key Assist?

We take the hassle out of replacing car keys and getting you back on the road.

  • We’re fully mobile and can come to you at work, at home or even in a car park.
  • We carry keys for most vehicles and can cut and programme most keys and fobs.
  • All our technicians are fully trained and DBS background-checked, so you’re in safe hands.
  • We follow manufacturer security processes and use dealer equipment wherever possible.
  • Our mobile car locksmiths can be more convenient and cost-effective than a dealership.
 

Compare our key services

Key Cover

A comprehensive add-on to UK breakdown cover for lost, stolen or broken car or house keys, including help if you're locked out.

Key Insurance

A free benefit for eligible Gold members (with us for 5+ years). Covers one set of lost or stolen keys, including help if you're locked out.

Key Assist

A one-off, chargeable service to replace car keys or help you regain access to your vehicle. Available whether you're an AA member or not.

Not sure which key service you need?

Chat to us about lost, stolen, broken or locked-in keys and we'll help you find the right support.


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Chat to us

Already booked with us?

Chat to us to check your ETA, reschedule an appointment or cancel your booking.

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Chat to us

FAQs

* Key Assist isn’t currently available in the Isle of Man, Channel Islands, Republic of Ireland, the Highlands and Islands, and any location north of Dundee. Dundee is the most northern point where assistance could be provided.

Terms and conditions apply.


How do you use my data?

To find out how we use your data, please read our privacy notice.

For more information, there's also our cookie policy and website terms and conditions.

Yes. Our equipment reads the key's design directly from the car's lock. So if your car key's lost or stolen, we'll cut and program a new one without needing the original. We’ll also disable any old keys as part of our service, to give you peace of mind that no-one can use the missing keys.
The cost of replacing your key depends on what type of key your vehicle uses.

The latest hands-free fobs for keyless entry will cost more than an older-style key remote. 

Chat to us or give us a call and we’ll give you a quote for your key replacement.
Whether your insurance covers lost or stolen car keys depends on the type of insurance you have.

With AA car insurance, you’ll be covered for damaged, stolen and lost car keys if you have comprehensive insurance with us. That’s as long as you don’t leave them in the car unattended.

If the keys, transmitter or keyless fob are lost or stolen, we’ll pay up to £1,000 towards the cost of replacing them. We’ll also pay the cost of protecting your, taking it to the nearest repairers if necessary and delivering it back to you after it’s been fixed.

If you have third party fire and theft insurance, you’ll only be covered for replacement car keys if they’re lost because of fire or theft. If you have third party only insurance with us, it won’t cover you for replacement car keys.
If you’re a Gold member, you’ll get free key insurance worth £1,500 with your membership.

That means you’ll be covered if your keys are lost or stolen. We’ll help with locksmith charges and a temporary replacement vehicle. 

Don't forget to activate your cover for it to apply. You can log in to check your Smart Benefits here.
Chat to our Key Assist team or give us a call to book a time and date for your appointment. Once we arrive, we can usually replace your key in around 30-40 minutes. 

If we need to order a new key, we’ll tell you this up-front and keep you updated on its delivery.
Our technicians use special equipment to read what type of key the vehicle needs. This equipment lets them read the coding in the key so they can cut and program another key on the spot.
Whether your vehicle’s keys have been lost, stolen or damaged – or you just need a spare – we can help.

If you’ve got a large fleet, you can set up a key assist account with us and pay later rather than at the roadside. Get in touch on 0800 551 188 to find out more.
Learn more about choosing the right cover for you in our guide on how to compare breakdown cover. Plus, find out what’s included in breakdown cover from the AA vs RAC.

You can also discover how Green Flag breakdown cover compares to the AA.

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