Autowave confident workshops missing key revenue stream

There is a lucrative opportunity awaiting independent workshops, one that motor factors around the UK are already thriving upon. By adding replacement keys and programming to their menu, forward-thinking workshops and their customers can profit from this ‘while you wait’ service. Here’s Autowave’s Ravi Kotecha to explain why:

Traditionally, key cutting and programming have been locksmith specialities; workshops have been reliant on bringing in third-party diagnostic experts with advanced tools – but that is changing rapidly.

There are more than 40 million vehicles on our roads, according to the Department for Transport, and most of them will need a new key at some point – because it has been lost, damaged, worn or just for convenience – so the market potential is huge.

Modern car keys typically require both physical cutting – so the blade fits the lock – and digital programming to sync with the car’s immobiliser system. While traditional key cutting might conjure images of a basic duplicator, today’s process involves a mix of hardware and software – but it’s surprisingly accessible with the right tools.

There is a perception that key programming, in particular, is too complex, but, in reality, the user-friendly equipment and comprehensive training available make it much more straightforward.

Modern key programming tools, like those from Autowave, are built with technicians in mind. With the right tuition, the learning curve is short, and technicians can offer and deliver this service quickly and efficiently.

Healthy margins to match

Not only is the process simpler than expected, the financial gains and rewards are substantial too. Once the cost has been factored in, workshops can still make a healthy margin.

In terms of overheads, beyond the initial investment of equipment – like Autowave’s XHorse Dolphin XP005L (Dolphin II) automatic key-cutting machine, OBDStar Key Master G3 key programming tool and XHorse Key Tool Max Pro key programming and transponder tool – they are low. Add in the convenience of a ‘while you wait’ service and it becomes a compelling upsell opportunity for workshops that have already booked customers in for routine maintenance, MOTs or diagnostics.

Electric or petrol, keys still matter!

With the rise of new vehicle technologies, like hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs), what does this mean for workshops? While an EV’s modular nature differs from a traditional vehicle, key programming remains consistent across generations. Despite potential variations in components, like the engine control unit, immobiliser programming remains unchanged. As EV technology evolves, methods may change, but, for now, programming procedures remain consistent.

Autowave is aware of only a few exceptions where EV manufacturers, like Tesla, are developing new, alternative systems. In these exceptional scenarios, Autowave can advise workshops how to prepare and service these accordingly.

Trusting tools and training

Sticking with a supplier that is trusted by motor factors is important. Autowave enjoys partnerships with national distributors, meaning workshops should be able to access a local motor factor with keys and equipment easily. Furthermore, working with a supplier that is local is important too; Autowave offers training – either direct from its training centre in Nottingham or in collaboration with a motor factor – and online or over-the-phone technical support.

Whether it is a smart or a mechanical key, having the right tool and a supplier that understands the trade should make a reassuring difference to workshops.

What’s the next step?

Offering a service that delivers strong returns with minimal disruptions can only be a good thing for independent workshops – and that is what key cutting and programming do. They should tick all the boxes. By embracing this untapped revenue stream now, independent workshops can thrive and earn repeat business in the future.