1 | Emergency Call
On Friday evening around 7:15 p.m., a customer from downtown Toronto called Direct Locksmith Toronto for a car key replacement service. His 2020 Aston Martin DB11 wouldn’t recognize the fob, “Key Not Detected” kept showing on the dash. The customer had only 1 proximity fob that he lost a day prior and he could not operate the vehicle. The car was parked nose-in against a wall, so towing wasn’t an option.
2 | Quick Assessment
- Working keys available? — None
- Vehicle battery condition? — Good.
- Dash lights? — Only “Key Not Detected.”
This was confirmed as an all keys lost situation of a smart key system. Plan: verify ownership, put the car into secure service mode, program a new OEM PROX fob, erase the missing fob for security, and cut an emergency blade.
3 | On-Site Diagnostics
- Verified ownership (registration, licence, VIN) and documented the service authorization.
- Connected a high-end diagnostic tool at the OBD-II port; confirmed immobilizer lockout and available key slots.
- Performed an RF sweep to rule out an intermittently broadcasting fob inside the cabin.
- Checked 12V system stability and network health to ensure safe programming conditions.
4 | Repair Process
- Retrieved security access and launched the start-authorization routine.
- Prepared a new factory fob (North American spec for DB11).
- Programmed the fob to the immobilizer, erased the old fob IDs, and synced remote/passive entry functions.
- Laser-cut and fit the emergency blade for manual entry.
- Cleared service codes and confirmed a clean scan.
5 | Final Checks
The vehicle was started and stopped multiple times to confirm consistency. Lock/unlock, trunk, panic, and steering release were tested and reconfirmed After a 15-minute wait time with the ignition being off and restarted the car without any issues. Customer was advised to keep the spare fob away from RF sources and replace the coin battery every 18–24 months.
6 | Completion
Total time on site: about 55 minutes. There wasn’t any need for a tow or dealership visit. Customer received one fully programmed OEM fob plus a cut emergency blade. The lost fob was disabled for security. Service was covered by a one-year parts and labour warranty, with 10% off for a second fob duplication within the next 30 days.
If you need a spare or replacement key for your Aston Martin, Direct Locksmith Toronto is here to help. Call us today at (416) 477-5533 or visit directlocksmith.ca to book a mobile service. You can also stop by our walk-in shop at 24-877 Alness St, North York, ON M3J 2H8 for fast, professional assistance.
