Where to Get Car Keys Cut: 7 Best UK Options for 2026

That sinking feeling when you can't find your car keys is something no driver wants to experience. Whether they're lost, stolen, or simply broken, you're left stranded and wondering, "where can I get car keys cut quickly and reliably?" In the past, your only option was often an expensive and time-consuming trip to the main dealership. Today, however, you have a wide range of choices, each with its own benefits for different situations.

From 24/7 mobile specialists who come directly to you, to high-street shops offering while-you-wait services, knowing your options can save you time, money, and a great deal of stress. This guide breaks down the seven best places to get new car keys in the UK, comparing costs, speed, convenience, and the types of keys they handle, from simple mechanical blades to complex modern fobs. We'll help you find the right service for your needs, whether you're facing an emergency lockout or just need a spare.

Beyond dealing with lost or broken car keys, ensuring your vehicle is always ready to go means also considering other common issues. For instance, if you've ever faced the frustration of a car that won't start due to a flat battery, you might find this helpful: a simple guide to car battery care.

1. Blade Auto Keys

For drivers in South Wales and surrounding areas, Blade Auto Keys represents a premier choice when considering where to get car keys cut, offering a comprehensive mobile service that combines speed, expertise, and round-the-clock availability. Positioned as a specialist automotive locksmith, they eliminate the need to visit a dealership or garage by bringing advanced key cutting and programming technology directly to your location, whether you are stranded at home, at work, or on the roadside.

This mobile-first approach is their standout feature, ensuring minimal disruption and downtime. Fully qualified technicians are equipped to handle a vast array of vehicles, from traditional cars with mechanical keys to the latest models featuring complex remote fobs and keyless entry systems. Their expertise extends to often-tricky electric and hybrid vehicles, a capability not all independent locksmiths possess.

Key Features and Service Highlights

Blade Auto Keys provides an end-to-end solution that goes far beyond simple key duplication. Their services are designed to address virtually any key-related emergency or requirement.

• 24/7 Emergency Response: This is a crucial benefit for anyone who has lost their keys late at night or needs urgent access to their vehicle. Their team is on standby to provide rapid, non-destructive entry and create a new key on the spot.

• Comprehensive Key Technology: They handle all key types, including standard mechanical keys, transponder keys, remote fobs, and advanced keyless entry systems. On-site cloning, spare key production, and reprogramming are standard offerings.

• Specialised Vehicle Support: Technicians are trained to work with a wide range of makes and models, including commercial vehicles, electric cars, and hybrids, using up-to-date diagnostic tools to ensure compatibility.

• Warranty and Assurance: All replacement keys and programming services are backed by a warranty, providing customers with confidence in the quality of the workmanship.

Pros and Cons

Strengths	Weaknesses
Exceptional Convenience: Mobile, on-site service saves you the time and hassle of a trip to the dealer.	Regional Coverage: Service is limited to South Wales and nearby areas like Bristol and Hereford.
Round-the-Clock Availability: True 24/7 emergency call-outs for lockouts and lost key situations.	Variable Pricing: Costs are not listed online; a quote is required, which depends on the situation.
Advanced Technical Capability: Expertise in modern keyless systems, EVs, and non-destructive entry methods.	No fixed-price menu for services.
Full-Service Solution: From cutting to programming and cloning, they manage the entire process.

Expert Tip: When calling for a quote, have your vehicle's make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ready. This information allows the technician to provide a more accurate cost estimate and ensure they have the correct key blank and programming equipment for your specific car.

Website: https://www.bladeautokeys.co.uk

2. Timpson

A familiar name on almost every UK high street, Timpson has become a go-to destination for a wide range of services, including getting car keys cut. Their strength lies in combining the convenience of a local, walk-in shop with a surprisingly robust online system. This makes them a reliable middle-ground option, often faster and more affordable than a main dealership but with the trustworthiness of a national brand.

Their website is a key part of the experience. The standout feature is the “Car Key Finder” tool, which allows you to enter your vehicle’s make, model, and year to get an instant quote and check which nearby branches can handle your specific key. This transparency eliminates the guesswork and potential for wasted trips, a common frustration when seeking specialist services.

Key Features and Process

Timpson can handle a wide variety of keys, from simple metal blades to transponder keys and remote fobs for most popular car makes. The process is straightforward: you use the online tool to get a price, find a local branch, and then take your existing key and the vehicle itself to the store. The requirement to bring the vehicle is crucial, as modern keys need to be programmed to synchronise with the car’s immobiliser system, a task their technicians perform on-site.

• Service Scope: Key cutting, transponder programming, battery replacement, and minor key fob repairs.

• Pricing: Often up to 50% cheaper than main dealers. Quotes are provided instantly online.

• Convenience: With over 2,000 locations, finding a nearby branch is usually easy. Many keys can be duplicated the same day.

• Online Booking: You can order your key online and book an appointment for cutting and programming, which typically takes around two working days to arrange.

  
  

Pros and Cons

While Timpson offers a fantastic balance of cost and convenience, there are some limitations to consider. Their services are ideal for standard duplication when you have a working key. If you've lost all your keys or have a more obscure vehicle model, a specialist automotive locksmith might be a better choice. To understand the different duplication methods they might use, you can find a comprehensive overview in this guide to car key duplication services.

Pros:

• Widespread UK Coverage: Unmatched physical presence on high streets and in supermarkets.

• Transparent Online Quoting: No hidden fees; you know the price before you go.

• Speed: Same-day service is often possible for many common key types.

Cons:

• Vehicle Presence Required: You must drive to a physical location for programming.

• Limited Specialist Keys: Not every branch can handle every type of advanced or luxury car key.

• No Emergency Call-Out: This is a walk-in service, not a mobile emergency solution.

  
  

3. KeyNOW

KeyNOW introduces a modern, online-first approach to getting car keys cut, blending digital convenience with flexible fulfilment options. The service is designed for those who prefer to handle the initial steps from home, offering a streamlined process that starts on their website. This platform is a strong contender for non-urgent key replacements, providing clear pricing and multiple ways to receive and program your new key, setting it apart from traditional walk-in services.

The entire process begins online. Users enter their vehicle registration, upload a clear photo of their existing key blade, and provide proof of ownership. This digital verification allows KeyNOW to cut a new key remotely and ship it, removing the need for an initial visit to a physical location. Their transparent pricing is displayed upfront, giving you a fixed cost before you commit to the order.

Key Features and Process

KeyNOW’s standout feature is its three distinct fulfilment methods, allowing customers to choose the best balance of cost, convenience, and technical comfort. Once the key is ordered and cut, you can opt for their “Pair-It-Yourself” kit, which includes the key and a simple plug-in device for your car’s OBD port to handle the programming. Alternatively, you can have the key sent to a local Timpson branch for professional programming or book a mobile technician to come to you.

• Service Scope: Online key cutting, remote key fob supply, and three programming options (DIY, in-store, or mobile technician).

• Pricing: Fixed price examples are shown on the website, often significantly cheaper than main dealers.

• Convenience: Order from anywhere without an initial trip. Delivery typically takes 2-3 working days for DIY and Timpson collection, or 3-5 days for a mobile visit.

• Online Ordering: The entire process, from quote to order, is handled through their website with simple document uploads.

Pros and Cons

KeyNOW’s innovative model is highly convenient, but its suitability depends on your needs. The DIY pairing option is cost-effective but requires you to follow instructions carefully. If this isn't for you, the mobile technician service provides an excellent hands-off alternative, similar in convenience to specialised services. For a deeper look into how mobile services work, you can learn more about on-site car key cutting in this guide.

Pros:

• Convenient Online Process: Order and verify from home, saving time.

• Flexible Fulfilment: Choose between DIY, professional fitting at Timpson, or a mobile technician.

• Transparent Pricing: See the full cost upfront before placing an order.

Cons:

• DIY Option Isn't for Everyone: Requires some confidence in following technical steps.

• Not an Instant Solution: Not suitable for emergency "all keys lost" situations due to shipping times.

• Limited by Vehicle Model: Some complex key systems may still require a specialist or dealer.

  
  

4. The AA – Key Assist

As one of the UK’s most recognised motoring organisations, The AA offers a specialised service called Key Assist, providing a mobile solution for drivers who need a replacement key. Their primary advantage is the convenience of an on-site service combined with the reliability of a major national brand. If you’re stranded without a key, their technicians come directly to you, eliminating the need to have your vehicle towed to a garage or dealership.

The service is accessible via their website, where you can request a call-back to discuss your specific needs. Rather than an automated quote system, they provide a personalised assessment to ensure they can handle your vehicle’s key type. This approach is particularly useful in stressful situations like a lost or stolen key, as you’re dealing with a trusted provider known for roadside assistance.

Key Features and Process

The AA’s Key Assist is designed for maximum convenience, especially in non-emergency and emergency situations. Once you make contact, they assess whether they have the correct key blank and programming software for your vehicle. If the parts are in stock, a technician is dispatched to your location with specialist equipment to cut the new key and program it to your car’s immobiliser on the spot. If a key needs to be ordered, they will arrange an appointment for when it arrives.

• Service Scope: Mobile on-site key cutting, transponder and remote fob programming, and assistance for lost or broken keys.

• Pricing: Quoted on a case-by-case basis. There is no fixed public price list, as costs vary depending on the vehicle and key complexity.

• Convenience: The mobile service is a major benefit, saving you time and the potential cost of towing. AA members may also have Key Cover as part of their policy.

• Booking: Initiated through their website or phone line, followed by a consultation to confirm details and arrange the call-out.

Pros and Cons

The AA Key Assist service is an excellent choice if you value the trust associated with a large, reputable organisation and require the convenience of a mobile technician. It’s ideal for situations where you can't get your car to a physical location. However, the lack of instant online quotes and variable availability can be a drawback compared to other services. For a clearer understanding of how technicians handle complex jobs like these, explore this in-depth look at the auto locksmith profession.

Pros:

• Trusted National Provider: The peace of mind that comes with using a well-known and reputable company.

• On-Site Service: Technicians come to you, which is invaluable if you've lost all your keys.

• Membership Perks: Existing AA members might have key insurance or other related benefits.

Cons:

• Variable Availability: Service depends on technician location and whether specific key parts are in stock.

• No Fixed Price List: Pricing is only provided after a consultation, which makes it harder to compare costs quickly.

• Not a Walk-In Service: You must book a call-out; there is no physical location to visit.

  
  

5. Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) – Find an Auto Locksmith

When you need a specialist but are unsure who to trust, the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) website serves as a crucial resource. Rather than being a direct service provider, the MLA is a non-profit trade association that vets, inspects, and approves locksmiths across the UK. This makes it an authoritative directory for finding a qualified and trustworthy professional, which is particularly important when dealing with your vehicle's security.

The primary function of the MLA site is its "Find a Locksmith" tool. This allows you to search for approved members in your local area, specifically filtering for those who specialise in auto locksmithing. By using this directory, you gain peace of mind knowing that you are choosing from a list of professionals who have met the MLA’s high standards for skill, quality, and ethical conduct, effectively avoiding rogue traders.

Key Features and Process

Using the MLA website is a two-step process: find and contact. You enter your postcode and select "Auto Locksmith" as the required service. The site then generates a list of nearby approved members with their contact details. From there, you are responsible for contacting the individual locksmiths to discuss your needs, obtain quotes, and check their availability. This puts the control in your hands to compare local specialists.

• Service Scope: The directory connects you with locksmiths who can offer a full range of services, including emergency call-outs, cutting keys by code, programming transponders, and handling "all keys lost" situations.

• Pricing: As a directory, the MLA does not set prices. Costs will vary significantly between individual members based on location, the complexity of the job, and call-out times.

• Convenience: The main convenience is finding a reliable, local expert quickly, especially in an emergency. Many members offer mobile services, coming directly to your location.

• Vetting: All listed members are vetted, inspected, and fully qualified, ensuring a high standard of service and consumer protection.

Pros and Cons

The MLA is an excellent starting point for finding a reputable professional, but it's important to remember it is a directory, not a service provider. The onus is on you to research and compare the options it presents. While it doesn't offer the instant quoting of some national chains, its value lies in connecting you with highly skilled, independent auto locksmiths. To better understand the specialist solutions they provide, you can explore the top automotive locksmith services available for your vehicle.

Pros:

• Guaranteed Quality: Connects users with vetted, inspected, and qualified professionals.

• Supports Local Experts: Helps you find and support independent, specialist auto locksmiths in your area.

• Comprehensive Service Finding: Ideal for finding help with complex issues like "all keys lost" or specialist vehicle keys.

Cons:

• No Centralised Pricing: You must contact individual locksmiths to compare quotes.

• Varied Availability: Service quality and response times depend on the individual member you choose.

• Requires User Effort: The site is a tool for research, not a one-click booking service.

  
  

6. eBay UK

For those on a tight budget or seeking a simple spare blade, the online marketplace eBay UK offers a surprisingly viable, low-cost alternative. It’s not a traditional key-cutting service but a platform where numerous UK sellers provide replacement key blades, fobs, and transponder blanks. The primary appeal is the price, with many options available for a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere, making it an excellent choice for a basic, non-remote emergency key.

The marketplace model allows you to find sellers offering "cut-to-code" or "cut-from-photo" services. This means you can order a new metal blade by simply providing your car's key code or sending a clear photograph of your existing key. This method bypasses the need for a physical visit for the blade itself, although any transponder chip will still require programming locally.

Key Features and Process

The process on eBay involves searching for your car’s make and model followed by "key blade" or "key fob". You will find countless listings from specialist sellers. It is crucial to read the listing description carefully to understand whether you are buying a blank key, a pre-cut blade, or a full remote fob. Once ordered, the key is posted to you, but remember that a key with a transponder will not start your car until it has been programmed by a locksmith or key specialist.

• Service Scope: Sells blank keys, cut-to-code blades, cut-from-photo blades, and replacement fob casings.

• Pricing: Extremely competitive, with basic cut blades often available for under £15.

• Convenience: The key blade is delivered directly to your door, though this is not an instant solution.

• Purchase Protection: The eBay Money Back Guarantee offers a layer of security if the item is not as described or doesn't work correctly.

Pros and Cons

While eBay is the cheapest route for a spare physical key, it's not a complete solution for modern cars. The main drawback is the disconnected process; you get the blade from one source and then must find a separate service to program the transponder. The quality can also vary significantly between sellers, making it essential to check reviews and ratings before purchasing.

Pros:

• Unbeatable Low Cost: The cheapest way to get a spare or emergency metal key blade.

• Wide Vehicle Coverage: Sellers stock keys for a vast range of makes, models, and years.

• Seller Ratings and Reviews: Helps you gauge the reliability and quality of different sellers.

Cons:

• Programming Still Required: You will need to hire a local auto locksmith to program transponders and remotes.

• Variable Quality and Accuracy: Success depends entirely on the seller’s precision; a poorly cut key is useless.

• Not an Emergency Service: Delivery times mean this is not a solution for lost key emergencies.

  
  

7. Car Keys Solutions

For drivers in and around the capital, Car Keys Solutions offers a highly specialised auto-locksmith service that combines the convenience of mobile assistance with the expertise of a dedicated workshop. Operating primarily within London and the M25 corridor, they focus exclusively on vehicle keys, making them a go-to for complex jobs, modern smart keys, and emergency situations that generalists may not be equipped to handle. Their service is a strong alternative to main dealers, often providing a faster and more cost-effective solution.

Their website provides a high level of transparency, featuring an extensive price list with example costs broken down by vehicle make and model. This allows customers to get a clear idea of potential charges before even making contact. The site also details their mobile service, online shop for mail-in repairs, and the warranty provided on all new keys, underlining their professional and customer-focused approach.

Key Features and Process

Car Keys Solutions is built for both emergencies and planned key replacements. Their mobile technicians can come to you seven days a week to cut and program a new key on-site, which is invaluable if you've lost all your keys. For less urgent needs, like a broken fob, you can use their online shop to mail your key in for repair. This dual approach offers flexibility that suits different scenarios and budgets.

• Service Scope: Mobile key cutting, on-site programming, lost key replacement, fob repairs, and spare key duplication.

• Pricing: Transparent example price lists are available online. Final costs depend on the specific vehicle and situation (e.g., all keys lost).

• Convenience: Same-day mobile service across London and the M25 area. Mail-in repair service is available nationwide.

• Expertise: As RAC-approved specialists, their technicians are trained to handle advanced vehicle security systems.

Pros and Cons

The main strength of Car Keys Solutions is its specialist focus within a defined service area, offering a rapid and expert response where it operates. If you're looking for where to get car keys cut in London, they are an excellent choice. However, their on-site mobile service is geographically limited, making them less accessible for customers outside the M25 for emergency call-outs.

Pros:

• Specialist Expertise: Deep knowledge of complex and modern car key systems.

• Transparent Pricing: Online price examples reduce uncertainty for customers.

• Flexible Service Options: Offers both mobile on-site assistance and a mail-in repair service.

Cons:

• Limited Mobile Coverage: On-site service is restricted to the London/M25 area.

• Variable Final Costs: The price can increase for "all keys lost" scenarios due to extra security work.

• Not a Walk-In Service: Primarily operates via mobile call-out or mail, not a traditional high street shop.

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Where to Get Car Keys Cut — 7-Option Comparison

Service	Process complexity 🔄	Speed / Access ⚡	Expected outcome 📊⭐	Ideal use cases 💡	Key advantages ⭐
Blade Auto Keys	Technician-led mobile service; minimal user steps, moderate technical complexity	24/7 mobile coverage (South Wales & nearby); rapid response in area	High reliability and on-site programming; non‑destructive entry — ⭐⭐⭐⭐	Emergency roadside, fleet/dealer support, when on-site programming needed	24/7 mobile response; comprehensive key types; warranty; qualified technicians
Timpson	In‑store cutting/programming; user must bring vehicle	Wide UK high‑street network; online quoting and booking	Good value and often same‑day for many keys — ⭐⭐⭐	Local replacement, lower‑cost alternative to dealers, quick in‑town jobs	Nationwide branches; transparent online quotes; typically cheaper than dealers
KeyNOW	Online order + ID upload; DIY pairing or choose fitting — variable user effort	Nationwide fulfilment options (DIY, Timpson collection, mobile) with clear lead times	Fixed‑price examples and faster than dealers for many jobs — ⭐⭐⭐	Cost‑conscious users, DIYers, or those wanting choice of fitting method	Clear pricing; multiple fulfilment choices; integrates with Timpson
The AA – Key Assist	Mobile technician visit; low user effort but depends on stock/assessment	National mobile service from large motoring brand; appointment booking	Trusted on‑site replacement when parts available — ⭐⭐⭐⭐	Stranded drivers, members wanting a reputable national provider	Trusted brand support; on‑site service reduces towing; membership perks
MLA – Find an Auto Locksmith	Directory search; user must contact and compare providers (higher effort)	Nationwide vetted members but availability varies by area	Variable outcomes depending on chosen locksmith; improved consumer protection — ⭐⭐⭐	Finding vetted local specialists, avoiding unvetted providers	Vetted/inspected members; helps compare local specialists
eBay UK	Online purchase of blades/transponder blanks; requires local programming	Broad seller coverage and low prices; delivery dependent on seller	Cheapest blade sourcing; programming likely needed locally — ⭐⭐	Buying low‑cost spare blades if you know code; DIY or local programming later	Very low prices; wide model coverage; buyer protection via eBay
Car Keys Solutions	Mobile specialist technicians in London/M25; straightforward if local	Rapid same‑day mobile service in London/M25; online shop and mail‑in options	High success for complex keys within area; warranty offered — ⭐⭐⭐⭐	London/M25 users needing specialist attention or same‑day service	Published example prices; specialist expertise; same‑day mobile service; warranty

Making the Right Choice for Your Car Key Needs

Navigating the world of car key cutting and programming can feel complex, but as we've explored, you have a wealth of options available. The crucial takeaway is that the "best" place to get car keys cut is entirely dependent on your unique situation. There is no single correct answer, only the right choice for your immediate needs regarding urgency, budget, and convenience.

From the high-street reliability of Timpson to the specialised online service of KeyNOW, and the assurance of a vetted professional through the Master Locksmiths Association, your decision hinges on balancing cost against time. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of each provider is your most powerful tool in making a smart, cost-effective choice.

Key Factors to Guide Your Decision

Before you pick up the phone or head to a shop, quickly assess your circumstances using these guiding factors:

• Urgency: Is your vehicle immobilised right now, or are you simply planning ahead for a spare? A roadside emergency demands a 24/7 mobile service, whereas creating a spare key can be done at your leisure with a more budget-friendly option.

• Key Complexity: Do you have a simple mechanical key, a transponder key, or a sophisticated smart key fob? The technology inside your key will dictate which services are equipped to handle the job, with specialised auto locksmiths often being the most versatile.

• Budget: Costs can vary dramatically, from a few pounds for a basic key blank online to several hundred for a dealership-programmed smart key. Decide what you're comfortable spending and seek quotes to avoid unexpected charges.

• Convenience: How much of the process are you willing to manage yourself? Mobile services that come to you offer maximum convenience, while online marketplaces require more hands-on effort but can yield significant savings.

By weighing these elements, you can confidently select the provider that aligns perfectly with your requirements. Always remember to have your vehicle's details (make, model, year, and VIN) and proof of ownership ready to ensure the process is as smooth and efficient as possible. Making an informed decision now will save you from future stress and unnecessary expense, ensuring you are always prepared and never left stranded.

For a fast, reliable, and professional service that comes directly to you anywhere in South Wales and the surrounding areas, consider Blade Auto Keys. Whether you're facing an emergency lockout or simply need a spare key programmed for a modern vehicle, their mobile expertise offers the ultimate convenience. Visit Blade Auto Keys to get a quote and solve your car key problems today.