My 2009 FFRR came with only one factory key (the flip key 2 button one).

Not wanting to spend over £250 at the dealer for a new one an experienced mobile key guy came over but found the car would not allow the key to be programmed (via the ignition). He tried 3 different machines but no luck. He said he finds these cars hit and miss, some programme the key, some don’t.

So I have ended up with just a new key blade, over a new key and fob.

Any idea what the issue is? Anyone know someone in the Herts/Essex/north London area who knows these cars a bit better?

Guessing there is no way to turn the alarm off with just the key?!

Firstly, it's the car that is programmed to the key, not the other way round - I got one from www.remotefobcentre.com in Leicester, cost to have the vehicle programmed was £40 + £23 for the key, I appreciate it's nowhere near you but the guy was confident in 100% success before I went down there. Several local auto-locksmiths wouldn't touch the job unless I had a 'genuine' key with receipt to prove it was from a dealer - and wanted £50-75 for the job with no guarantee of being able to do it.

Ok thanks. Most of the quotes I have had have been £180, but the guy I found quoted £120. Ended up paying £20 for the spare key without a fob. Better than no key at all but still not ideal. Will give these guys a call to ask if they know someone nearer they trust.

Got an email from the guy Leicester, £100 plus vat for a spare for the 2007-2009 L322.
May have to pop in on my next trip to my parents in Derby unless someone locally can crack it.