Emergency Auto Locksmith Services

Locked out, lost your keys or need a spare? Unlock Auto comes to you across Essex with a fast, reliable service.


At Unlock Auto, we’re a local, mobile auto locksmith based in Southend, helping drivers with lost keys, spare keys and vehicle entry. We take pride in offering a friendly, reliable service and getting you back on the road as quickly as possible.

Locked out, lost your keys, need a spare or dealing with a faulty remote?

Unlock Auto provide straightforward, professional solutions to get you back on the road quickly, without the hassle of going to a dealer.

Emergency Entry

Locked out? Our emergency entry service gets you back in your vehicle quickly and safely without any damage to your vehicle.

Car Key Cutting

Need a spare key? Our expert car key cutting is quick and precise, ensuring you have a backup when you need it.

All Keys Lost

Lost your keys completely? Depending on your vehicle we can create a replacement key quickly, so you’re not stuck for long.

Remote Repairs

Car remote not working properly? Buttons not working?Remote just falling apart? We can offer repairs and re-casing.

Number Plates

We are a DVLA registered Number Plate supplier and we can offer same day delivery to the local area.

Nissan Leaf with enginge compartment open and attached to Battery Support Unit

Reliable Auto Locksmith Services at Your Fingertips

At our core, we’re about making your life easier so if you’re locked out or need a new key, we’re here for you. Our mission is simple, to provide trustworthy auto locksmith services when you need them most, ensuring you’re back on the road in no time.

We value your safety and convenience above all, and are dedicated to getting things done with care and efficiency.

A set of 5d number plates with ABC 123 on them

We are DVLA registered Number Plate Suppliers

Unlock Auto business card in amongst various car keys

Practical help when car key problems get in the way of your day.

Get a quote

Need assistance with your vehicle? We're here to help with all your auto locksmith needs.

Complete our online form and we get back to you shortly.

For urgent enquiries please call 01702 808708

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Frequently Asked Questions

The time required depends on the service needed and the specific vehicle. Some jobs, such as vehicle entry or cutting a basic spare key, can often be completed in just a few minutes.

Key programming on some newer vehicles takes longer because we need to locate and access electronic modules before we programme keys.

Once we know the vehicle details and the issue, we will give you a realistic time estimate before starting so you know what to expect.

We are able to non destructively pick the majority of vehicle locks and decode them using specilist equipment. This allows us to use your exisitng locks and we can cut you new keys and programme them.

Yes. For security reasons, proof of ownership or identification will be required before work is carried out. This helps protect you and ensures keys are only made for legitimate owners.

No. We work on a wide range of popular makes and models, but not every vehicle can be supported. We are always adding to our supported vehicles.

No. We only charge for completed work.

Yes. Where appropriate, we scan the vehicle for faults before work begins. If any issues are found relating to the immobiliser, ECU or other critical systems, these will be discussed first.

In some cases, existing faults may mean it is not sensible to proceed with key programming. If that happens, we will explain why and advise on the next best steps rather than risking further problems.

SERMI

Me looking like a lego character stood next to a car and holding a key programming machine with an Unlock Auto branded top on

What is SERMI?

SERMI stands for Security Related Repair and Maintenance Information. It is a new accreditation scheme that controls who can access sensitive vehicle security data such as key programming, immobiliser coding and anti theft systems.

From 1 April 2026, only SERMI approved businesses can legally access this protected information, and only for manufacturers who have signed up to the scheme. Not every brand is live yet, but most major manufacturers are now part of the rollout.

Why we sre accredited

We chose to become SERMI accredited so we can continue to operate at dealer level properly and legally.

This means:

• Our business has been independently verified
• Background checks have been completed
• We are authorised to access manufacturer security systems where available
• We meet strict security and data protection standards

Approval is assessed and audited. It is not automatic.

What this means for you

• Your vehicle is handled by a verified and authorised professional
• We can legally access participating manufacturer systems
• We can continue programming keys and carrying out security work correctly
• You are protected from unverified operators who will no longer have access to dealer level software

In short, your vehicle security remains protected and you are using a properly accredited specialist.