Getting keys cut...

[OneCarefulOwner]

Right, I've just been to see some friendly chaps at MB Croydon, and I can (if the numbers match up) get a new remote keyfob/doorkey for a mere £185 inc. VAT... But they don't cut any keys on-site so as I don't have a code for the replacement ignition barrel that's been fitted at some point, there's no way for them to arrange a spare key. They recommended a local firm, who've quoted me £25 per key just for cutting - is this normal? I thought £7 was expensive, and that was because of special-ordering the blanks for my Allegros...

I have no interest in using one of the FleaBay "post us your keys" services, as the idea of giving away my keys to some stranger & then telling them where to find my car seems just stupid. Can anyone recommend anywhere cheaper either in the South London or Greater London areas, or near Brighton as I have to go that way regularly?

 

[CRASH67]

i think you will hard pushed to find cheaper as i beleve they are laser cust keys rather then cut like your average door key

 

[allias]

If your key has a chip in it then will require coding. It will be no good just buying one from locksmith. I wonder how come they quoted you £185 because that is the price for new cars with fob keys.

 

[OneCarefulOwner]

He looked at my fob and said "£190 mate, well £185"... I don't think he actually tried to activate it or looked at how many buttons it had. I don't believe my keys have chips in, but the locksmith I was recommended has facilities to encode chipped keys according to their website: Welcome to SLS Locksmiths

 

[GP801]

This is more than I paid earlier in the year at my local dealer for the S124 key with remote. As far as I remember it was around £130. If you are in Brighton try MB Brighton or Rivervale - used to be main dealer but now do genuine spares/repairs. Usually very helpful. For the key to fit the ignition they will need the code for your lock if it is not the original item. Keys come ready cut form MB in Germany - took 3 days