Losing your car key is never fun - especially if you drive an imported car like a Toyota Estima or a Nissan Elgrand. You might be thinking, “Oh no, I’ll have to wait weeks for a new key from Japan,” or worse, “I bet this is going to cost a fortune.” The good news? That’s not the case. You don’t have to go through your dealership, and you definitely don’t need to panic.
So… Can you actually get a replacement key for an imported car?
Yes, absolutely. And in most cases, we can sort it much faster and cheaper than the main dealer. At Norwich Auto Locksmith, we specialise in replacement keys for imported vehicles - whether it’s a Japanese import, a grey-market car, or something a little less common on UK roads.
We’ve helped plenty of owners of imported Nissans, Toyotas, and even American vehicles who’ve been told by their local garage that “you’ll have to go back to the manufacturer.” That’s usually code for “it’s going to be expensive and take weeks.” Not ideal if you need your car to get to work tomorrow.
Why is it harder to get keys for imported vehicles?
Dealerships sometimes struggle because the systems and key codes for imported vehicles can be different from the UK models. If the car wasn’t officially sold here, it might not be in their database - which means delays, ordering parts from abroad, and high costs.
Luckily, that’s where we come in. We have the specialist tools, programming tech, and know-how to create and program new keys for most imports - even if the dealership says they can’t help.
What types of imported cars can you help with?
We’ve worked on everything from Toyota Alphards and Estimas to imported Nissans like the Elgrand or Cube. We can usually help with:
- Lost or stolen keys
- Spare key cutting
- Remote key programming
- Keyless entry fobs
If you’re not sure whether your car counts as “imported”, just give us a ring. We’re always happy to chat.
What’s the turnaround time?
In most cases, we can have a replacement key made and programmed within 48 hours of you contacting us. And we come to you - so whether you’re stuck on your driveway or at work, we’ll get you back on the road without the fuss.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from £70 (+VAT) depending on the type of key and the vehicle. It’s still far cheaper than going through a dealership - especially when you factor in towing fees, delays, and high labour costs.
Final thoughts
If you’ve lost your key and you’re driving an imported Toyota or Nissan, don’t stress. We’ve got your back. Our mobile locksmith service covers Norfolk and Suffolk, and we’re proud to be the go-to guys for imported vehicle key replacements in the area.
Got a question? Just give us a call on 01603 396 121 or drop us a message. We’ll get you sorted - no drama, no dealership prices.