Millions of Brits don't have spare keys

Millions of Brits face forking out if they lose their car keys after it was revealed many do not even keep a spare as back-up.

According to the results of a new survey, three million (10 per cent) of British drivers don’t have a second set of car keys in reserve, while 16 per cent admit they have permanently lost them in the past.

Britannia Rescue estimates that the cost of replacing an everyday car key is up to four times that of ten years ago due to the advanced locking systems used in many vehicles.

"Accessing vehicles built since 1998 is generally more time-consuming and expensive for drivers due to the introduction of increasingly sophisticated alarms, immobilisers, and shielded locks," said Martin Milliner of the breakdown cover specialists.

He went on to advise: "The cost of getting back behind the wheel could really rocket if work is needed on the ignition or security system as well, but one clear way of avoiding this issue is to look after your spare key and keep it in a sensible place."