How to Get a Citroen Key Replacement

Citroen the French automaker, is famous for its futuristic approach. The iconic 2CV was manufactured in 9,000,000 versions between 1948 and 1990.

Sometimes, your keys or fobs can become out of sync with your vehicle and need to be reprogrammed. This can be done at a dealership or our mobile technicians can assist you.

Replacement Citroen Car Keys

The cost of replacing a Citroen key can differ based on the model of the vehicle. For instance, models that have more sophisticated features such as the Xsara Picasso or Berlingo can cost more to replace. However, in general, our prices are approximately 50% lower than those of the main dealer.

We can supply new transponder and remote keys for all Citroen models from 1998 to 2000. The keys are equipped with a chip that communicates with your car when you insert them into the lock. If the correct code is received the vehicle will be able to open. These keys are more secure and protect against thieves than other types.

Prior to 1997 the majority of Citroen keys were mechanical switchblade keys that did not require programming. Making spare keys for these cars is very simple and can be completed on site within a matter of minutes. In the event of a lost key, you will need the use of a PIN code, which is typically hidden beneath the scratch panel of a security card made of plastic. It is similar to a credit card found in the wallet of the owner (see picture). It can be obtained quickly by contacting us. There's no need to visit the dealer!

Since 2000, all Citroen vehicles and vans are equipped with transponders (chip) that is contained in the remote fob or key. This type of key has to be programmed to the vehicle with an instrument that is specifically designed for diagnostics. If you have the appropriate tools, this procedure is simple and quick.

There are alternative methods to program these citroen car key replacement keys but they are not as safe and have greater chance of corrupting the microchip's information. The best way to avoid this is by contacting one of our locksmiths who understand how to operate the tools properly and will have a thorough understanding of the security system of your vehicle.

Citroen Car Key Replacement

If you've lost your Citroen car key or need a spare one it could be a nightmare. Many people think that they need to go to their dealer to get an exchange, but this isn't always the situation. Cars are becoming increasingly high-tech and this also includes their keys. Locksmiths in your area can substitute a traditional car key, but if you have an electronic or remote key, you'll have to seek out a professional who has the right tools and knowledge.

We are among one of a few mobile businesses with the specialist equipment required to reprogram modern citroen key fob keys. This allows us to help you save time and money over the main dealer. Driving your Citroen to the dealership could also be much more expensive as they'll have to reset the immobiliser system, which could cost up to PS1000.

Since 1998, all Citroen models are equipped with transponder chips (philips fixed code type 33 or 'T5') in their keys that serve to start the vehicle. The older "snap-in" key only opened the lock and activated the alarm. These modern key systems have an electronic remote control which can lock and unlock the car from afar and disable alarms with the push of the button. This is a far more secure system and only your own keys can operate it.

In the majority of cases, replacing a key on this Citroen model is simple and is done at the site (including in lost key situations). However, if you lose both keys, the car must be re-coded which involves taking the vehicle to our workshop.

Citroen Car Key Repair

The Citroen range is a popular line of vehicles, which includes the C2, C3, C4, C5, C6 and the Xsara. All of them are equipped with transponder chips which can be used to start the vehicle. If the correct PIN is entered by the car after the key was inserted, it will respond with a code for the immobiliser and the engine will begin. This is referred to as a chip key and is very secure.

It is easy to replace these keys in the event that you have lost the keys. They can be purchased from your local auto locksmith. The only issue is that from 1998 onwards, the Citroen automobiles were equipped with a different style of chip (known as a 'fiat' type 33) which is more difficult to replace in these cases. In these cases it is usually necessary to carry out an operation called 'eeprom' to extract the key data from the ECU and immobiliser in order to program an entirely new key.

This is a highly-specialized area of expertise, but we can offer this service in your home or office with our mobile workshop. This means you don't have to go to the dealer, who will likely charge you an additional amount for this service. You will need to bring your V5 and ID with you to the dealer to place an order for a replacement key. It can take up to five days. The dealer will need to program the key into your vehicle to ensure it is working properly. This can cost you a lot of money.