Car locksmith questions, answered straight
The things people ask us most, with honest answers - no asterisks, no small print. If yours isn't here, just call or WhatsApp.
How quickly can you get to me?
We're based in Scunthorpe and cover the town and about 25 miles around it. We aim to reach you as quickly as we safely can - call us with your location for an arrival estimate, as times depend on the time of day, traffic and where you are.
Are you really open 24/7?
Yes. We're mobile 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including nights, weekends and bank holidays. Locked out at 3am or on Christmas Day? You can still call us.
Can you make a new key if I've lost all of mine?
Yes. If every key is gone we can cut and programme a fresh key at your vehicle - no need to tow it to a dealer. We'll first ask you to prove the car is yours with the V5C logbook and photo ID, then erase the lost keys from the car's memory so they can't start it.
Can you always open my car without damage?
Non-destructive entry is always tried first, and works on most popular makes and models. A small number of vehicles need a different approach if the lock is damaged, seized or has a high-security shield. We'll always explain what's involved and the cost before we do anything.
What proof do I need that the car is mine?
Your V5C logbook (or a clear photo of it on your phone) and photo ID that matches it, like a driving licence. We always check ownership before we start - it's the legal, honest way to work and it protects genuine owners.
Do you work on house or domestic locks?
No. East & Co is a vehicle locksmith only - cars and light vans. We don't do house locks, uPVC doors, safes or domestic security. If you need a domestic locksmith, a quick online search for a local one will help.
Do you cover north of the Humber Bridge?
No. Our area is within about 25 miles of Scunthorpe. We don't cover Hull, Hessle, Howden or anywhere north of the Humber - it's too far for a fast, reliable mobile service.
What do you charge?
Every job is different, so we give you a clear, honest quote over the phone or WhatsApp before we set off - there's no charge for the quote. Tell us the make, model, year and registration and we'll price it properly.
Do you do cars and vans?
Yes. We work on most popular makes and models of cars and light vans. Call us with your registration to confirm we can help and to get an accurate quote.
What areas do you cover?
Scunthorpe, plus Doncaster, Lincoln, Grimsby, Gainsborough, Brigg, Immingham, Cleethorpes, Barton-upon-Humber and many smaller towns and villages within about 25 miles. See our areas-we-cover page for the full list.
Can you programme a key I bought online?
Sometimes, depending on the key and the vehicle. Cheap online keys are often the wrong type, a clone that won't code, or lack the right chip. Call us with the key details and your registration and we'll tell you honestly whether we can code your key or whether it's better to supply one.
My key won't start the car but opens the doors - can you help?
Yes. That's usually a transponder programming issue - the blade works the lock but the chip isn't recognised by the immobiliser. We diagnose and reprogramme on-site. See our car key programming page.