The third-generation Range Rover Sport L461, launched in 2022, is on a new platform shared with the L460 full-size Range Rover. The key system is also updated from the L494, using Ultra-Wideband technology rather than the previous PEPS. Here is what that means for key programming and replacement.
L461 Key Replacement Cost
| Service | AJ Auto Price | Main Dealer Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Range Rover Sport L461 spare key | From £180 | £400 to £900+ |
| Range Rover Sport L461 all keys lost | From £250 | £700 to £1,500+ |
L461 vs L494: Key Differences
The L494 Range Rover Sport (2013 to 2022) used a standard PEPS smart key. The L461 uses UWB. The key blanks are physically different and not interchangeable. Pathfinder programming parameters for the L461 are also different from L494. Any specialist attending an L461 needs to carry the correct UWB blank and have up-to-date Pathfinder calibration. We confirm model year and VIN at booking.
What the Programming Job Involves
Whether adding a spare key or carrying out an all-keys-lost KVM rebuild on the L461, the process uses Pathfinder with L461-specific parameters. The UWB pairing steps add a small amount of time to the programming sequence compared to PEPS models. A spare key job takes approximately 50 to 65 minutes. An all-keys-lost job takes 70 to 90 minutes.
Does the L461 Have Digital Key?
Yes, on certain specification levels. Digital key allows a compatible smartphone to function as an access device. It supplements the physical key and does not replace it for KVM programming purposes. A spare physical UWB key remains the only reliable backup.
For L461 key services and the full Range Rover Sport range including L494 and L320, see our Range Rover Sport key replacement page and the Range Rover key replacement page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between PEPS and UWB on the Range Rover Sport?
PEPS uses low-frequency proximity detection with approximately one metre accuracy. UWB uses Time of Flight measurement with centimetre accuracy, making it significantly more resistant to relay attack.
Can an L494 Sport key be used in an L461?
No. The key blanks are physically different and are not interchangeable between generations.
Does the L461 need the original key present for a spare to be added?
Yes. The existing working key must be present at a spare key appointment. If every key is lost, an all-keys-lost service is required instead.
Is the L461 more expensive to programme than the L494?
The price is the same. The L461 UWB key requires slightly different parameters in Pathfinder, but this does not affect the cost.
What We See in Practice
The L461 represents a significant generation change for the Range Rover Sport and the key implications of that change are still being worked through by owners who bought the new generation expecting it to behave like the L494 they had previously. The security architecture of the L461 is more advanced than its predecessor, which means owners who previously paid a certain amount for L494 key work sometimes find the L461 service is priced differently. We have attended L461 Sports since the model launched and the programming process, while different from the L494, is carried out reliably with current diagnostic software. Owners who are upgrading from an L494 to an L461 and want to understand what the key differences mean for their service costs are welcome to call for a model-specific explanation before booking.
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When to go to a dealer instead
If your vehicle is still under JLR factory warranty and the fault is covered, take it to a dealer. Warranty repairs are free and no specialist can match that. If you need a recall fix, the dealer is the right call. Outside of those two situations, a mobile JLR specialist will be faster, cheaper, and will attend at your location.