How Much Does It Cost to Change Car Locks?

Changing a car lock in the UK typically starts from around £150, rising to £250 or more if the ignition lock needs replacing alongside the door lock. The exact figure depends on your vehicle’s make and model, and whether the lock is a simple mechanical mechanism or part of a modern electronic, remote-linked system, the latter generally costing more to source and fit. Knowing which type your car uses is the first step to getting an accurate quote rather than a rough estimate.

Wondering how much it costs to change car locks in the UK? Depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and the type of lock (Mechanical or Electronic). Whether your car lock is broken, jammed, or simply worn out, replacing or repairing it ensures your vehicle stays secure. In this guide, we’ll explain common lock issues, what affects the cost of car lock replacement, and when a full replacement is necessary.

What Are the Common Reasons to Change Your Car Lock?

Here are some of the reasons why you might want to change your car lock:

Damaged Car Lock

There are several reasons for car lock damage. Most common among them is through an accident or when crooks try to force their way into your car.  These situations cause the locking mechanism to become stiff or loose and unusable. Other times, cold weather or dirt cause the locks to malfunction.

Broken Key

Some cars require you to insert a key to lock the doors and open the booth. After a while, your car key becomes brittle and snaps off in the lock.  In such a situation, you can’t use your car until you replace the locking mechanism. This problem represents one advantage that the new car alarm remote keys have over the old ones.

Stolen or Lost Car Keys

It is human nature to lose things, and your car keys are no exception. You can easily misplace them, or someone can steal them.  Getting a new key is okay, but you should also change the locks for security reasons. The thief or anyone with the old one will not have access to your car when you do this.

Ignition Replacement

Most cars use the same key for locking the doors and turning on the ignition. This condition requires that you get a new set of car keys when you change your ignition mechanism.  You don’t want to carry two keys every time: the new one for the ignition and the old one for the door lock.  Whenever you change your ignition, replace your door locks to match the new car key and avoid this inconvenience.

What’s Involved in Changing a Lock?

Changing your car locks is a technical procedure. Any error can mess up your car’s electrical systems and complicate your problem.

You first have to remove the panel on your car door panel.  Before doing that, carefully remove the speakers in the door and the window regulation mechanism screwed to it. This step will allow you to pry off the door without breaking anything. Disconnect the exposed electrical connections to give you a clear view of the locks, and ensure that you don’t damage any wires.  Lift and remove the c-spring clip with your pliers to release the door lock.

You can now remove it from the front of the car door. Fix the new door lock through the same opening and push down the c-spring lockdown over it. Make sure this is tight so you can put the door lock rod back into the latch. Reverse your earlier steps to connect your electrical wires and get your door panel back in place.  Insert your speakers and any other things you took out. Test the lock, your windows, speakers, and other electrical systems to ensure everything works.

How Much Does It Cost to Change Car Locks?

The cost to change car locks in the UK typically starts at £150 and can go up depending on the vehicle’s make, model, and the type of lock system involved (mechanical or electronic).

For example, changing a standard door lock may be less expensive than replacing a modern integrated lock with remote entry. If the ignition lock also needs to be replaced, the total cost may rise to £250 or more. While it may be tempting to delay this repair, especially if the car still works, unresolved lock issues can compromise your vehicle’s security and lead to more costly problems down the road.

Below is a list of the starting prices you should expect when you hire any car locksmith:

• Lockout: £99.
• Lost Car Keys: £149.
• Car Key Repair: £129.
• Copying Car Key: £129.
• Car Key Replacement: £129.
• Ignition Repair or Replacement: £249.

Conclusion

Make sure you get only the best quality of work when paying to change your car locks.  Try searching online and reading reviews of car key programming and replacement services within your area. This method is an excellent way to find professionals to help you out.

You can call UK Auto Locksmith anytime from anywhere in London. We will be at your doorstep within 30 minutes.  Our services are top quality, receiving only excellent reviews from our customers.

Call us on 02038809904 for a quote or any other information you might require. We are always available to help.