Losing or damaging your car key can be stressful. But if you’re here, we probably don’t have to tell you that!

Whether it’s a simple manual key or a high-tech keyless entry fob, replacement costs vary widely, with the average car key repair cost sitting around £240.

Need a key repair? This guide explains typical car key costs, the types of keys available, factors that affect pricing, and how to replace or repair them.

On average, a replacement costs around £240, but this can range from £160 for a basic manual key to thousands of pounds for a luxury model like a Bentley. 

Local dealerships tend to charge more, while locksmiths often provide quicker, more affordable alternatives. Don’t forget you can use 

 to split the cost of repairs into interest-free repayments.

As with any repair, the cost of replacing a car key depends on the type of key and your vehicle. Let’s break these costs down into key types.

Remote keys are convenient but more expensive to replace than traditional keys. 

Typical costs range between £275 and £595, depending on your car make and model. 

Manual keys are the simplest and cheapest to replace. 

The average cost is around £160, with minimal programming required. These keys remain the most budget-friendly option for older vehicles.

Keyless or proximity keys offer high-tech convenience, but come at a price. 

Average replacements start around £280 and can escalate for luxury vehicles. This is because programming is usually required, and in some cases, the car itself must be present for the new key to work.

Car key replacement costs for popular vehicle types

Car key replacement costs vary across brands. The Bumper team have gathered up some of the most popular UK models to show the range in prices.

As you can see from the different cost bands above, modern cars use a variety of key types. Here are the main ones to know so you can get the right price for your replacement:

Most repairs or replacements can be completed within the same day, which is excellent news if you need a key ASAP.

However, as with the final cost, the time required to repair or replace a car key depends on the type of key and the service used. Simple keys will take less time than complex key fobs. 

Factors that can affect car key replacement costs

Several factors influence the cost of replacing a car key, and knowing them will help you navigate the different prices.

Firstly, the make and model of your vehicle play a significant role, with luxury or modern cars often requiring more expensive keys. 

The type of key also matters, as remote and keyless entry keys generally cost more due to their programming and advanced technology.

Additional features, such as car alarms or remote locking, can further increase the price.

Your location can affect costs too, with services in London typically charging higher rates than the rest of the UK.

The method of replacement is another consideration, as mobile services may be slightly more expensive but offer greater convenience. 

Finally, the time of day can impact the price, with out-of-hours services often attracting a premium.

When you need to replace a car key, choosing the right service can save both time and money. There are several options available, each with its own advantages and considerations:

Requesting another set of car keys is a routine procedure. The main reasons keys may need replacing are:

Many car owners also choose spare keys to avoid future stress. However, this isn’t usually a time-sensitive repair or replacement.

Can car keys be repaired instead of replaced?

Yes! If your keys are damaged rather than lost, a repair might be a good option.

Some minor issues, such as a broken button or a worn key shell, can be repaired. However, modern electronic keys often require full replacement if the transponder or programming fails.

Not usually. Programming a key fob requires specialised equipment and knowledge. 

Unless you have access to auto locksmith tools and vehicle-specific codes, professional programming is recommended. Costs typically range from £50 to £200.

What is the cheapest way to make a spare car key?

It’s hard to give a one-fits-all answer, but using a local locksmith is often the most cost-effective route. They can duplicate keys, reprogramme fobs, and may even provide same-day mobile services.

But if you have a high-tech key, your dealership might be the better option!

Keycare is an insurance add-on that provides a contact number on your key fob. 

If lost, anyone finding your keys can return them, often with a small reward. It’s a practical way to prevent costly replacements.

Getting a replacement car key is a simple job, and one you’ll have sorted in no time. Hopefully, we’ve explained the car key repair costs and different options so that you can make an informed decision. Good luck!

Need a last-minute car key replacement or repair? A Bumper 

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers.

Car Key Repair Costs in the UK 2025

If you’ve noticed a metallic rattle or a burning smell under your car, your heat shield could be to blame. Usually, car heat shield repair costs range from £150 to £300, but can reach £600 in exceptional cases. 

However, most of the time, repairing it isn’t usually a significant job. Here’s everything you need to know about heat shield repairs in the UK.

How much does a car heat shield repair cost?

In the UK, heat shield repairs typically cost between £150 and £300, including parts and labour.

You’ll either need a minor fix or a full replacement. Here’s the difference between each:

Remember, prices can vary between garages, so always ask for a full breakdown of parts, labour, and VAT before approving any repair.

Because garages often need to access the underbody or remove parts of the exhaust, labour time has a big impact on the final price.

If a repair bill lands at an awkward time, remember that you can use 

 to split the bill into interest-free instalments.

Other factors that influence cost of a heat shield repair

Alongside the price difference between a repair and replacement, several other factors affect the price of a heat-shield repair:

A car heat shield is a thin layer of metal or composite material designed to protect your car from the extreme heat generated by the exhaust and engine. 

You’ll find them around the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, or beneath the underbody panels.

Their job is simple but essential: to deflect heat away from sensitive components such as wiring and fuel lines. Without them, those parts could melt and fail, or, in the worst case, catch fire.

How long does a car heat shield repair take? 

Most heat shield repairs are quick and can usually be completed the same day. 

Re-securing a loose shield typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, replacing a section takes around one to two hours, depending on rust and access, and fitting an integrated exhaust shield can take three hours or more. 

It’s often a simple fix that can be done during a regular service or MOT preparation.

A heat shield can last the lifetime of the vehicle if the metal stays intact and corrosion is kept at bay. However, on UK roads where rain and salt are constant factors, rust tends to take hold after five to ten years.

Once corrosion starts, the bolts or welds can weaken and cause rattles or detachment. Keeping the underside clean and treated against rust can significantly extend its lifespan. We’ll explore how to maintain a heat shield later on this page!

Technically, yes, but it’s not advisable.

A missing or loose heat shield might seem harmless at first, but it can allow excessive heat to reach the car’s floor, fuel system, or wiring. That can cause damage or even fire risk in severe cases.

At the very least, a rattling shield will worsen over time, potentially breaking off while driving.

Worried that your heat shield might be faulty? Here are some common signs to note. 

If any of these appear, your garage can inspect the exhaust area and confirm whether it’s a simple tightening job or a full replacement.

Prevention is the best medicine! Maintaining your car’s heat shield starts with regular care and attention, such as:

Wash the undercarriage periodically, especially after winter, to remove salt and debris that can accelerate corrosion.

Pay attention to rattles, buzzing, or tinny vibrations, as these often indicate a loose or damaged heat shield that needs inspection.

Ask your mechanic to check the heat shields whenever your car is on the ramp during servicing, ensuring any issues are caught early.

Treat small spots of rust or replace corroded bolts as soon as possible, since this is far cheaper than fitting a completely new heat shield later.

Manufacturers do not specify exact lifespan limits for heat shields, so replace the part whenever it shows significant wear or damage.

If painting the heat shield, ensure you use paint specifically designed for high temperatures and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which may include preheating the paint.

Prevent damage by avoiding hitting the underside of the car with stones, and do not drive off-road if your vehicle isn’t designed for it.

If it’s just a loose clamp or bolt, a confident DIYer might temporarily secure it using proper heat-resistant fasteners or brackets. But if you’re unsure, it’s never a good idea to tamper with your car.

Never use household materials like foil or tin cans. They won’t withstand exhaust temperatures.

For replacements or welded sections, it’s best left to a qualified mechanic with a lift and safety gear. Incorrect fitting can cause noise at best or fire damage at worst.

A loose or missing heat shield can cause an MOT failure if it’s deemed unsafe or likely to detach while driving.

According to DVSA guidelines, any component that poses a risk of falling off, interfering with moving parts, or affecting emissions may fail the MOT. 

Even if it passes, your tester might flag it as an advisory, so it’s smart to fix it promptly.

Yes. Repairing or replacing a damaged heat shield protects your car from excess heat and extends the life of exhaust components. Repairs also help prevent more costly issues later on, so it’s a win-win.

A damaged or faulty heat shield replacement shouldn’t be put off.

Hopefully, this blog has given you insights into the general car heat shield repair costs and what to do if you notice damage. This is your sign to book your car in for a check-up!

Car heat shield repairs don’t have to be frustrating, especially if you have a Bumper 

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers

Car Heat Shield Repair Costs in the UK (2025)

Bumper, the digital payments platform, has announced a new strategic partnership with Renault Group UK.

The agreement sees Bumper’s PayLater solution being made available to dealers across the Renault, Dacia and Alpine brands.

Nearly half of Renault Group’s 190 retailers are already live with Bumper’s buy now, pay later (BNPL) service, with more in the process of being onboarded.

Commenting on the new contract, Alex Platt, Bumper’s Senior OEM and Commercial Partnership Manager, said: “Renault Group becoming our latest OEM partner marks a significant milestone for Bumper as we pursue our ambition to revolutionise the automotive payments experience.

“With our deep integrations across DMS and eVHC platforms, we’re already enabling Renault Group retailers to sell more work, more profitably and deliver even more positive customer outcomes.”

Stephen Whitcombe, Head of Aftersales at Renault Group UK said: “This new partnership with Bumper is part of our ongoing commitment to deliver greater value, flexibility and transparency to our customers. By rolling out Bumper’s PayLater solution across our retailers, our customers can manage repair bills more easily through spreading the costs, helping them to stay on the road.

“Working with innovative partners like Bumper enables our retailers to operate more efficiently and improve customer satisfaction. We're confident this evolving partnership will drive long-term benefits for both our retail partners and their customers.”

The partnership comes as Bumper celebrates a number of recent milestones in its rapid growth both in the UK and internationally. The company recently announced an $11m extension to its Series B funding, and has also expanded its solutions with the launch of Bumper Pro – an integrated payment platform that delivers cost-savings and performance insights.

Bumper partners with Renault Group UK to power aftersales payments across their retail network

We're thrilled to announce the winners of our recent competition.

Service advisors at our partner contact centres have been busy discussing Bumper's interest-free PayLater option with their customers.

To celebrate their hard work, our team made some visits with a truckload of prizes to give away.

Giving drivers flexible payment options during their first enquiry boosts customer satisfaction and alleviates stress during their visit.

Congratulations to all our winners and thank you for using Bumper with your customers!

Revealed: Winners of our most recent competition

Richmond Bognor Regis has been crowned Bumper’s next Dealership of the Month. 

Operating in Hampshire, West Sussex and Surrey, Richmond Motor Group works with 6 different franchises across 7 locations. 

Since early 2023, the group has used Bumper’s PayLater products to split the cost of drivers’ repair bills into interest-free monthly payments. 

In that time, the Bognor Regis site has embedded PayLater into their everyday aftersales process, using the interest-free option to enhance the customer experience with increased payment flexibility. 

Ian Squibb, Aftersales Manager, said, “Thank you to Bumper for this award. Our team has seen firsthand the benefits of having Bumper available for our customers. 

“As a newer team, we’re focused on always doing the best for our customers, and Bumper plays a key role in that. 

“By offering flexible payment options, we’re able to enhance customer satisfaction and retention while also increasing authorised work through giving customers more choice.” 

Customers praised PayLater at Richmond Bognor Regis on Trustpilot, where the site received a near-perfect score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. 

One customer wrote, “Super efficient and easy to set up, really clear confirmation of payment plan as well.” 

Congratulations to Reece, Artur, Nick, Ian, and the whole team at Richmond Bognor Regis on your win! 

Enhancing customer satisfaction with Richmond Bognor Regis 

No, Bumper does not do a “hard” credit check when you apply. 

When applying for Bumper’s Buy Now Pay Later service for car maintenance, Bumper performs a “soft” credit check, which does not affect your credit score. 

However, this is just the initial search. If you accept your Bumper plan and start making repayments, these will be reported to the credit reference agency. 

If you make payments on time, this could positively affect your credit score. 

Read on to find out more about how credit checks with Bumper work: 

Yes, Bumper does a “soft” credit check when you apply for their interest-free finance product. A “hard” credit check isn’t performed. 

Soft credit checks show on your credit report but aren’t visible to other lenders. Only you can see them. 

Because other lenders can’t see them, they won’t affect other credit applications, such as a mortgage or finance to purchase a car. 

When you start making repayments towards a Bumper payment plan, repayments will be reported to the credit reference agency: 

Bumper performs a soft credit check. This is only visible on your credit report to you. 

Payments made on time or missed payments would be reported to the credit reference agency. 

How strict are Bumper’s credit checks? 

If you have a good credit history and have been regularly making repayments to other lenders on time, it is most likely that you’ll be approved. 

If you don’t have a very good credit history and you regularly miss repayments or have a history of defaults, you may not be accepted. 

However, applications are reviewed on an individual basis, and we cannot guarantee you’ll be approved. 

Why does Bumper perform a soft credit check? 

The “soft” search Bumper performs gives us a an overview of key aspects of your credit history, allowing us to make an assessment of your creditworthiness. 

As a responsible lender, we must do all we can to make sure we don’t approve anybody for credit that they might not be able to repay or could push them into financial difficulty. A soft search lets us do this. 

Does a credit check from Bumper show to other lenders? 

The soft credit check Bumper carries out when you apply doesn’t show to other lenders. 

However, if you start your plan and accept your agreement, on-time and missed payments will be reported to the credit reference agency. 

Does a credit check from Bumper show immediately? 

Bumper reports the soft credit check to the credit reference agency straight away. 

It is important to remember that a soft search only appears to you. It doesn’t show to other lenders. 

Does using Bumper improve your credit score? 

Yes, using Bumper could improve your credit score. 

Regularly making payments on time is a good way to show lenders you’re likely to meet their repayment schedule and can positively impact your credit score. 

However, missed or default payments could affect your credit score in a negative way. If you think you’re unable to make your repayments, the best thing to do is speak to Bumper straight away. 

Final thoughts – does Bumper do a hard credit check? 

Hopefully, this guide has given you all the information you need about how credit checks for Bumper’s 

No, Bumper does not perform a hard credit check. It performs a soft credit check, which only you can see. 

If you accept your credit agreement, the payments you make or miss will be reported back to the credit reference agency. 

Does Bumper do a hard credit check? 

We’re excited to announce the next Dealership of the Month as Riverside Volvo Hull. 

The Volvo site has been part of the Bumper network since 2021, using PayLater to split the cost of their customers’ bills into interest-free monthly payments. 

Now, the site is one of the latest to roll-out Bumper Pro, a complete payment solution combining every payment method – PayLater, Pay by Card, Pay by Bank and PayPad. 

Pro enables dealers to simplify payment management and reduce processing fees. 

Connecting seamlessly to Pinewood.AI, Bumper Pro has allowed Riverside Motor Group to automatically reconcile payments, saving their teams needless time spent manually matching payments. 

Intelligent payment routing has unlocked significant transaction fee savings for the group, with drivers automatically directed to a preferred payment method depending on their transaction size. 

Additionally, with multiple providers and payment types at their fingertips, Bumper Pro has equipped Riverside Volvo Hull with the necessary tools to almost eliminate the possibility of payment downtime. 

Group Operations Director, Andy Jackson, at Riverside Motor Group, said: “Bumper Pro has had a major impact on our operational efficiency. Automatically reconciled payments within Pinewood saves our team heaps of time, completely eliminating what was a previously laborious process. 

“Pro has also had a positive impact on our customers. With every payment option connected seamlessly through our Bumper account, DMS and the Bumper PayPads, our drivers are given the ultimate flexible payment experience consumers have to expect.” 

Riverside Volvo Hull: Transforming payment management with Bumper Pro 

 Renewing your car insurance is a chore. However, taking your time and getting it right could save you a significant amount of money. 

The best time to renew your insurance is 28 days before it runs out. 

Many drivers simply renew at the last minute without considering timing. But this can lead to you potentially missing out on cheaper premiums. 

In this article, we’ll explore the best time to renew your car insurance, how timing affects your car insurance quotes, and other practical ways to reduce your renewal costs.

When is the cheapest time to renew car insurance?

Research shows that your renewal date can have a real impact on how much you pay. The best time to renew your car insurance is usually around 

Waiting until the last minute may not always be the most cost-effective strategy, as the data shows the costs are most expensive on the day before. 

In fact, renewing a few weeks before your policy expires can often secure lower rates.

The table below shows the average premiums at different times leading up to a policy renewal, according to 

Does time of day affect car insurance quotes?

If the day you renew makes a price difference, you might wonder if getting a quote at 9 am versus 9 pm affects the price. 

Generally, insurers base quotes on factors like your driving history, car type, and location, rather than the exact hour you request the quote. 

While some anecdotal reports suggest prices can fluctuate slightly at different times of day, the differences are usually negligible. What matters more is how far in advance of your renewal date you start shopping around (in terms of days, not hours).

How to bring car insurance renewal costs down

Aside from timing, there are several other ways to reduce your renewal premium. If you have time, use these to get a better quote on your policy.

You can also bring your car-related fees down by using 

 to split surprise repair costs into interest-free instalments.

Don’t just accept the first quote you receive. Use comparison tools and websites to find the best price for your needs. 

But always read the fine print of what’s on offer before you make a final choice!

Evaluate whether you need comprehensive cover or if simple third-party, fire, and theft might suffice. 

Look at the value of your car and how much protection you realistically need when making this choice.

Opting for a higher voluntary excess can lower your premium, though make sure you can afford to pay it in the event of a claim. If you’re unsure, it’s best not to commit to a higher excess.

Sometimes, insurers give out loyalty discounts and multi-car policies. There are even safe driver incentives that can reduce renewal costs. 

So, while you’re renewing, it’s also a good time to review your driving habits. Could you drive more safely? 

What is the 21-day rule for car insurance?

The so-called “21-day rule” refers to the guideline that insurers often allow you to renew your policy up to 21 days before your current cover ends without losing benefits such as no-claims bonuses. 

Starting your renewal process within this window ensures continuous cover while giving you some time to compare quotes and lock in a better deal.

While the 21-day rule is useful to keep in mind, the research above shows that the most cost-effective time to renew is actually around 28 days before your policy expires. Consider renewing slightly earlier than the 21-day window to secure the lowest premiums while still ensuring uninterrupted coverage.

Which comparison site is best for car insurance in the UK?

Renewing your insurance well in advance is essential, but comparison sites are an invaluable tool when comparing different car insurance deals.

In the UK, popular platforms such as MoneySuperMarket, Compare the Market, and GoCompare allow you to compare hundreds of policies from different providers quickly. 

Each site has its strengths: some offer unique discounts or cashback deals, while others provide more detailed filters to narrow down coverage options. In our opinion, it's worth checking at least two or three comparison sites to ensure you’re seeing a comprehensive range of quotes. 

Remember, not all insurers appear on every site, so relying on just one platform could mean missing out on better deals elsewhere.

Ultimately, if you want an affordable car insurance deal, you need to carefully balance timing, comparison, and careful evaluation. It’s a good rule of thumb to renew around 28 days before your policy ends, so don’t put this task off until it’s the very last second!

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer