Car Key Programming London
OBD and EEPROM key programming for all makes and models across London. New keys, spare keys, and replacement keys programmed on-site — including when all keys are lost. Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm.
Car key programming is the process of linking a new or replacement key's transponder chip to your car's immobiliser system so the car will start. Without programming, even a perfectly cut key will turn in the ignition but the engine will not fire — the immobiliser cuts fuel to the engine. Car Locksmith London carries professional programming equipment for OBD and EEPROM methods, covering every car make sold in the UK. We come to you, programme on-site, and test the key fully before we leave.
Programming Methods We Use
OBD Programming
We connect to your car's On-Board Diagnostics port (under the dashboard). The fastest method — no dismantling, works on most post-2000 vehicles. We read the security data, programme the new key, and confirm the car starts. Typical time: 20–40 minutes.
EEPROM Programming
When OBD is security-locked, all keys are lost, or the immobiliser tokens need resetting, we access the ECU or immobiliser module directly. We read and write data at chip level. More complex, but works when OBD cannot. Typical time: 1–2 hours.
Infrared Programming
Some older Toyota, Lexus, and Honda models use infrared key programming rather than OBD. We carry the specialist equipment for this and programme keys for all generations of these vehicles.
PIN Code Extraction
For many vehicles we can extract the 4-digit or 8-digit PIN code from the immobiliser or ECU, allowing key programming without dealer access. This is essential when full ECU reads are not possible.
Transponder Chip Types We Programme
Modern car keys contain a transponder chip inside the key head. The chip responds to a signal from the immobiliser antenna ring around the ignition barrel. We programme all chip types including:
Cars We Programme Keys For
How the Programming Process Works
Call & Confirm Details
Tell us your make, model, year, and how many working keys you have. We'll confirm the programming method required, the price, and an ETA.
On-Site Attendance
Our technician arrives at your location fully equipped. We assess the vehicle, confirm the immobiliser type, and begin programming.
Key Programming & Testing
We programme the key to your immobiliser using OBD or EEPROM methods as required. We test all functions — start, central locking, remote.
Full Handover
We confirm all programmed keys work, check no immobiliser faults remain, and provide a receipt. Existing keys remain working unless you ask us to delete them.
When All Keys Are Lost
Losing all your car keys is a serious situation — without an existing key to authenticate, most vehicles require specialist equipment to add a new key. We handle this regularly. Using EEPROM programming, we read the car's immobiliser data, generate the correct security token for a new key, programme it, and leave you with one or two working keys. We do not need to tow the car to a dealer or wait days for a part order.
Pricing
All prices exclude VAT. Fixed price quoted before work begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between OBD and EEPROM programming?
OBD programming connects to your car's diagnostic port — faster, no dismantling required, and works on most cars made after 2000. EEPROM programming requires us to access and read the car's ECU or immobiliser module directly — used when OBD is locked out, all keys are lost, or security tokens need resetting. EEPROM is more complex but allows us to programme keys on virtually any vehicle.
Can you programme a key when all keys are lost?
Yes. When all keys are lost we use EEPROM or infrared programming to add a new key to the car without needing an existing working key. This requires reading the immobiliser module directly. We carry equipment for this on every van.
My new key starts the car but the immobiliser light stays on — why?
This usually means the key was cut correctly but not programmed, or the transponder chip was not recognised by the ECU. It can also indicate a fault with the immobiliser module itself. Call us — we can diagnose and resolve this on-site in most cases.
Do you programme keys for all car makes?
Yes. We cover all makes including BMW, Mercedes, Audi, VW, Ford, Vauxhall, Toyota, Honda, Kia, Hyundai, Land Rover, Jaguar, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Peugeot, Citroën, Renault, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Lexus, Volvo, SEAT, Skoda, and more.
How long does key programming take?
OBD programming typically takes 20–60 minutes on site. EEPROM programming, which involves module removal and reading, takes 1–2 hours. We'll give you an honest time estimate when you call based on your specific make and model.
How much does car key programming cost?
Key programming starts from £120 + VAT for a basic transponder key. Smart/proximity key programming is typically £180–£350 + VAT depending on the vehicle. All prices exclude VAT and are quoted fixed before we start.