Transponder generations
Toyota uses a range of transponder and smart-key systems, including on hybrid models.

Lost, broken or spare Toyota key? We come to your vehicle, check the key system for your model and year, then quote before we start.
Let’s talk keys
Send your details and we’ll get back to you about your keys. For anything urgent, call us.
Our expertise
Every key lost? We cut and programme a new one at your car — no tow, no dealer.
Explore serviceA spare key cut and programmed at your car, before you ever need it.
Explore serviceTransponders, remotes and smart keys coded to your car on site.
Explore serviceKeys locked inside? Damage-free entry wherever the car is parked.
Explore serviceStiff, jammed or broken ignition barrels repaired or replaced at the roadside.
Explore serviceSnapped blades extracted, broken cases and dead buttons fixed — same visit.
Explore serviceTechnical deep-dive
Toyota uses a range of transponder and smart-key systems, including on hybrid models.
Some keys can be added through the OBD port; all-keys-lost jobs can need a module reset or emulator procedure. OBD programming works through the diagnostic port; a bench read means removing a module and reading its memory chip (EEPROM) directly.
Toyota vs the dealership
A dealer may need to order a key from UK and Japan and book the car into the workshop — sometimes meaning a tow if you have no working key. We come to your vehicle instead.
Where your model allows it, the key is cut, coded and tested at the roadside or on your driveway. If a step genuinely needs the dealer, we tell you on the call.

Common Toyota faults
Hybrid and keyless Toyotas can show 'key not detected' with a weak key battery or failed key.
Some models need an extra procedure or module work to add a key when none remain.
Older Yaris and Aygo keys wear and can stop turning smoothly.
Supported models
Open a model guide for generation-specific detail. Compatibility depends on the year and key type, so we always confirm from your registration.
FAQs
Not always. Many Toyota keys can be cut and programmed at your vehicle. We check your registration first; if your model needs a dealer-only step, we tell you on the call.
Often, yes. All-keys-lost jobs can need the PIN or key data reading from a module. We confirm the method for your model before quoting.
We regularly ask about the Aygo, Yaris, Corolla, C-HR, RAV4, Hilux. Compatibility depends on model year and key type, so we confirm it from your registration.
It depends on the key type, model and whether any keys remain. We quote on the call before any work starts.
Photo ID and proof that the vehicle is yours, such as the V5C logbook or finance or insurance documents.
What customers say
"I cannot recommend Alec enough. My transit custom lock was not turning. I did not know Alec at this point and called another locksmith. To cut a long story short the other locksmith attempted a repair and then gave up, leaving me with a van I could no longer use. I called Alec who came out next day; he repaired the damage done by the other locksmith and custom made a replacement ignition barrel so one key still does the doors and the new ignition. I couldn't be more pleased. Price was very fair too!"
"Did the work at a 3rd of the price of the dealership and I'm sure to a higher quality, the work was quick and professional. Could not recommend more!"
"Absolutely spot on! After ringing about 15 different companies who said they couldn't help and one company even saying the series of my car doesn't exist I found smarttech who I contacted who could finally help! The next day he came out and I now have access and a new key to my car! Fast and efficient polite service! Highly recommend!!"