‘Key-tastrophe’: car key-related call out every seven minutes

4 min read
  • A car key-related call out took place every seven minutes in 2024
  • Two-thirds (62 per cent) were the result of drivers locking their keys in the car
  • One in 20 drivers broke or snapped their key whilst trying to use it

 A car key-related call out took place every seven minutes in 2024, reveals new research from Green Flag.

According to internal Green Flag data¹, two-thirds (62 per cent) of car key call outs were a result of drivers having a ‘key-tastrophe’ and locking their keys in the car. A further fifth (21 per cent) of call outs occurred due to keys being jammed in the lock or ignition, whilst 12 per cent were a result of lost keys. One in 20 drivers (five per cent) suffered because their key broke or snapped whilst trying to use it.

Spare key failure is clearly keeping drivers locked out. Further research² revealed that 9.8 million drivers (25 per cent) have at least once found themselves unable to start their car because of a key-related issue, with three million (seven per cent) requiring breakdown assistance because of these spare key failures.

Nearly seven million (6.7 million) drivers claim not to have a spare key, highlighting how many motorists are at risk of being caught short if their car key is lost, misplaced or damaged. Key related issues caused seven per cent of drivers needing to call out a mechanic and five per cent have had to break the window of their car or break into their car to retrieve a key.

At the same time, three million (seven per cent) UK drivers have needed breakdown assistance because of spare key failure, suggesting that even those with spares can fall victim to key-related issues.

Replacing a lost car key costs an average of £340³, but prices vary depending on the make and model of the car: for vehicles with advanced keyless entry systems, costs can rise even higher.

Katie Lomas, Managing Director of Green Flag, commented: “Inevitably it is when you need to be somewhere important when you find you don’t have a working car key and unable to find your spare. Keeping track of your spare key, ensuring its battery hasn’t run out and storing it in a secure but accessible location can make all the difference. Simple precautions can help save time, stress and of course money.”

To help UK drivers avoid key-related breakdowns, John Price, Technial Lead Engineer shares the following advice:

  • Promptly replace the batteries of any failing car keys – when a car key is running out of battery, it will become glitchy at first before failing altogether. Spot the signs early and make sure to replace the battery before it fully runs out to prevent any complete failures.
  • Store keys properly – avoid extreme temperatures, as extreme cold can drain key fob batteries for example.
  • Have a spare key and know where it is – ensure all drivers in the household are aware of its location.
  • Use a faraday pouch – if you have a spare key and are keeping it in your home, or indeed your main car key too, to avoid this being relayed or broken, then storing it within a faraday pouch can help with this.
  • Have a backup plan – consider keyless entry options or storing a spare key with a trusted person.
  • Use key tracking devices – tracking devices can help locate misplaced keys quickly.
  • Consider key insurance – Green Flag covers the cost of replacing lost or stolen keys, reducing the financial burden of key-related emergencies.
  • Have breakdown cover in place – depending on the policy you take out, a breakdown provider can be on hand to help if you get locked out of your car. Alternatively, a breakdown company may decide to transport your vehicle to a local garage or a locksmith to help.

With so many motorists unprepared for a key-related breakdown, Green Flag is urging drivers to take active steps to maintain their key health avoiding costly repairs. By staying informed and planning ahead, drivers can ensure they are never left stranded due to something as small as a misplaced or malfunctioning car key.

- ENDS -

 Notes to Editors:

1.      Internal Green Flag call out data, 2024, extrapolated to account for share in the UK market.

2.      The research was conducted by Opinium among a sample of 2,000 UK Adults across the UK aged 18+. The data was collected between 28 February 2025 – 4 March 2025. Opinium Research is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.  

3.      Average Cost of Car Key Replacement (2025) | NimbleFins

For further information please contact:

Chelsey Wheeler

Deputy Head of News and Issues

Email: chelsey.wheeler@directlinegroup.co.uk

 

About Green Flag:

With over 50 years' experience, Green Flag provides customers with breakdown cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers have access to a network of breakdown operators across the UK and mainland Europe (Euro Plus cover required).   

 

Green Flag is underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.   

 

Green Flag and U K Insurance Limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.    

 

Customers can find out more about Green Flag products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 1557, connecting via the Green Flag Rescue Me Application, or visiting www.greenflag.com