How to Get a Citroen Key Replacement

Citroen, a French automaker, is renowned for its future-oriented approach. The iconic 2CV model was produced in 9 million variants between 1948 and 1990.

Your keys or remote can become out of sync and require programming. This can be done at a dealer or our mobile technicians can help you.

Replacement Citroen Car Keys

The price of a replacement Citroen key will vary based on the model of the vehicle. For instance, more expensive models like the Xsara Picasso and Berlingo may cost more to replace because they come with more advanced features. In general our prices could be at least 50% less than the prices of the main dealer.

We can supply new remote and transponder key for all Citroen models from 1998 until 2000. These types of keys have an internal chip that communicates with the car when you insert it into the lock. If the correct code is received, the vehicle will open. These keys are more secure and prevent thieves from using them over other types.

Prior to 1997, all Citroen keys used a mechanical switchblade key and did not require programming. Making spare keys for these cars is very straight forward and can be done at the site in a matter of minutes. For lost keys, you'll need a PIN code which is typically hidden beneath the scratch panel of a plastic 'SECURITY CARD' that is the size of an credit card located in the owner's wallet (see picture). This can be obtained very quickly from us. There's no need to go to the dealer!

From 2000 onwards, all Citroen vehicles and vans are equipped with transponders (chip) inside the key or remote fob. This kind of key has to be programmed into the vehicle with an instrument for diagnostics. This process is very quick and simple with the right tools available.

There are other ways to program these Citroen keys, however they are not as safe and have the risk of destroying the microchip's data. The best way to avoid this is to speak with one of our professional locksmiths who understand how to use the tools in a safe manner and are knowledgeable about the security system of your vehicle.

Citroen Car Key Replacement

If you've lost your Citroen car keys or require a spare key it can be an overwhelming experience. Many people think that they need to go to their dealer to get a replacement, but that isn't always the situation. Cars are becoming more high-tech and this is also true for keys. While a locksmith at your local is able to make replacements for car keys that are conventional however, if you have an electronic or smart key you'll have to go to an expert who has the right equipment and skills.

We are one of the few mobile businesses that use specialized equipment to re-program newer Citroen car keys. This allows us to save you lots of time and money as opposed to the main dealer. It can be more expensive to bring your citroen ds3 key replacement to the dealer because they may require reset of the immobiliser. This could cost as much as PS1000.

From 1998 all Citroen models use transponder chips (philips fixed code type 33 or T5) in their keys. These chips are used to turn on the vehicle. In contrast to the old style'snap-in key' that opens the lock and activates the alarm. Modern key systems feature an electronic remote control that allows you to lock or unlock the car from afar and deactivate alarms at the press of the button. This is a much more secure system, and only your key is able to operate it.

Replacing keys for this type of Citroen is quite straight forward and can be accomplished on the spot in most cases (including lost key situations). If you have lost both keys, the vehicle will need to be re-coded which involves taking the vehicle to our workshop.

Citroen Car Key Repair

The citroen key fob range is a very popular line up of vehicles that includes the C2, C3, C4, C5, C6 and the Xsara. All of these cars have transponder chips in the key blades which allow them to start the car if the correct PIN code is recognized by the vehicle when the key is put in, then it will respond with an immobiliser number and the engine will be started. This is referred to as a chip key and is very secure.

If you have lost one of these keys, it is usually very easy to find an alternative from your local auto-locksmith. Citroen cars from 1998 to date use a different type of chip, called a "fiat" type 33. This chip is more difficult to replace. In these situations it is required to execute a procedure referred to as 'eeprom-work' in order to retrieve the crucial data.

This is a particular area of expertise but with our mobile workshop and the latest equipment, we are able to do this at your place of work or home. This avoids a trip to the dealer, who is likely to charge an additional amount for this service. A dealer will also require you to show your V5 ID and V5 document in person to be able to place an order for the replacement key, which can take between two and five working days to arrive. The dealer will need to program the key into your vehicle to ensure it is working correctly. This could cost you a significant amount of money.