BYD Dolphin Locksmith Hamilton

The Dolphin uses a push-button start proximity key, programmed to the vehicle's immobiliser through the OBD port. As with other current BYD EVs, the fob is also linked to the car's power management system, so programming includes confirming the key is correctly recognised for charging.

All-keys-lost Dolphin: We read the security data from the immobiliser, generate a new key registration, program a replacement fob, and delete the lost key's codes from the system — done at your vehicle in the great majority of cases.

Hidden emergency blade: Like the Atto 3, the Dolphin's fob conceals a physical key blade for manual entry if the battery dies completely. It opens the door only — it will not start the car.

Spare keys: A Dolphin running on one key is a real risk, since a flat or lost fob can leave the car undriveable. Cutting a spare while the original works is inexpensive.

Fob not detecting: Our most common Dolphin callout — almost always a flat CR2032 battery, occasionally with a de-pair event. We carry the correct battery and re-pair on site.

All keys lost: We attend Dolphin all-keys-lost calls across Hamilton suburbs and out to Cambridge and the wider Waikato.

Cracked fob casing: Daily commuter use means scuffed or cracked fobs. We rebuild them with a replacement casing where the circuit board is intact.

Confusion over push-start quirks: Some Dolphin owners mistake a flat fob for a flat car battery. We diagnose correctly over the phone before travelling where possible, to save a wasted callout.

We cover the BYD Dolphin up to and including 2023 model year. BYD's NZ range is still growing, so for a 2024 or newer Dolphin, call us with your registration and we will confirm coverage honestly before anyone travels.

Smart key programming with an existing working key typically runs $350–$550. All-keys-lost recovery adds roughly $150–$300 on top. A straightforward battery and re-pair job is usually much less — we quote the real job over the phone.

A Chartwell commuter called us after her Dolphin would not unlock or start one morning. She assumed the 12V battery had failed overnight and was preparing to call a tow truck.

We arrived in 28 minutes and quickly found the issue was a flat CR2032 fob battery rather than the car's main battery. We fitted the correct replacement, re-paired the fob to the immobiliser, and confirmed it against the power management system before she drove to work.

Total time on site: 20 minutes. No tow required, and well under what a dealer visit would have cost her in time alone.