FAQ'S
Q: What do I do if I've locked my keys in the car?
A: Stay calm and don't force entry yourself, as this often damages seals or trim. Call a mobile locksmith with non-destructive entry tools, and have your location and registration ready.
Q: How much does it cost to get a new car key made?
A: Prices vary by vehicle make, key type, and whether programming is needed, from budget-friendly remote keys to pricier smart fobs on premium brands. Mobile locksmiths are usually cheaper than main dealers.
Q: Can you make a car key with no original key (all keys lost)?
A: Yes. When all keys are lost, a locksmith decodes the lock or accesses the vehicle's onboard systems to cut a new blade and program a fresh key to the immobiliser without an existing key. This takes longer and costs more than duplicating a spare.
Q: How long does car key programming take?
A: Key programming typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the vehicle's make, model, and immobiliser system. All-keys-lost and EV/hybrid jobs usually take longer than programming a spare when one key still works.
Q: Do you offer 24 hour emergency car locksmith call outs near me?
A: Yes. Maxess Auto Keys offer mobile emergency call-outs across West Wales. Emergency locksmiths are available around the clock for lockouts, lost keys, and non-destructive vehicle entry, day or night.
Q: Can a mobile locksmith replace a key for any make and model?
A: Yes, replacement keys can be cut and programmed for almost any make and model, including cars, vans, and trucks. This covers cut keys, remote keys, and keyless entry fobs across most manufacturers.
Q: What's the difference between a mobile auto locksmith and a dealership for key replacement?
A: A mobile locksmith comes to your car and usually finishes entry, cutting, and programming in one visit at lower cost. A dealership often needs booking, may need the car towed, and can involve waiting for parts.
Q: Will my car insurance cover a lost or stolen key?
A: It depends on the policy. Some insurers include key cover as standard, some offer it as an add-on, and some only pay for theft. Check whether it covers replacement, reprogramming, recovery, or lock changes, and report any theft immediately.
Q: Do you need the original key to cut and program a replacement?
A: No, the original key isn't required. Replacement keys can be cut and programmed from scratch using the vehicle's lock and onboard systems, even in all-keys-lost cases, though having the original speeds up the process.
Q: Can you program keys for electric or hybrid vehicles?
A: Yes, EV and hybrid keys can be programmed on-site, though these systems are more electronically sensitive than petrol or diesel keys. Ask if the locksmith handles EV/hybrid immobiliser authorisation, as some models need dealer-only procedures.
Q: What's the difference between a transponder key and a remote key?
A: A transponder key contains a chip the immobiliser reads to start the engine, with no buttons. A remote key adds a circuit board for locking, unlocking, or keyless functions, but may still need a separate transponder signal to start the car.
Q: How do I know if my car key needs reprogramming vs a new battery?
A: If the remote buttons are unresponsive but the car starts with the key inside, a flat battery is likely and a swap usually fixes it. If the doors open but the car won't start or shows an immobiliser fault, it likely needs reprogramming.
Q: Is it cheaper to use a mobile locksmith than a main dealer for a lost key?
A: Usually, yes. Mobile locksmiths typically charge less than dealer pricing for emergency key replacement, with no towing cost if the car won't start. Dealer costs are often higher overall due to delays and towing.
Q: What information do I need to give a locksmith when I call?
A: Have your vehicle registration, make, model, approximate year, and location ready. Describe what the key is doing: lost, locked inside, snapped blade, dead buttons, or not recognised. This helps the locksmith bring the right tools first time.
Q: Can you get into my car without damaging the locks or paintwork?
A: Yes. Non-destructive vehicle entry uses specialist tools that open doors without harming seals, trims, glass, or paintwork. This is the standard approach for lockouts.
Q: Can I get a spare key made if I still have one working key?
A: Yes, and it's the ideal time to do it. Programming a spare while one key still works is simpler and less disruptive than waiting until you have none. If your key feels unreliable, a spare avoids a more stressful call later.
Q: What areas do you cover for mobile key services?
A: Maxess Auto Keys covers Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea, Ceredigion and surrounding areas. Mobile call-outs are available 24/7 across this coverage area for emergency and scheduled key services alike.
Q: Can a locksmith reprogram keys after they've been lost or stolen (immobiliser reset)?
A: Yes. When a key is lost or stolen, the locksmith can reset the immobiliser and reprogram the system so the missing key no longer starts the car. This is a security step and should be done as soon as possible.
Q: How long does it take a mobile locksmith to arrive after I call?
A: Response times depend on location and job load, but mobile locksmiths are built for speed since they come directly to you. Calling with your exact location and vehicle details ready helps give an accurate arrival estimate.