Guide
Dealer or locksmith for a car key?
For most cars a mobile locksmith is cheaper and comes to you; Kelley Blue Book says a locksmith might save 10% to 25% over a dealer. The dealer is the better call for some newer or luxury models with locked-down programming, and for anything still under warranty that needs a part from the factory.
Side by side
| Mobile locksmith | Dealer | |
|---|---|---|
| Comes to the car | Yes | No; the car comes to them, by tow if no key works |
| Price | Usually lower; KBB says 10% to 25% savings are possible | Usually higher, sometimes with a separate programming charge |
| Key type | Original or aftermarket; ask which | Original |
| Newest models | Some can't be programmed outside the dealer | Can do all of their own models |
| Timing | Often same visit if they carry the blank | May need to order the key |
The tow is the hidden cost
When you still have one working key, the dealer is a reasonable choice: drive in, get a copy. When you have no key, the dealer route starts with a tow, and that is where the mobile locksmith usually wins. A Durham poster who lost the only set of truck keys asked exactly this question, which is the right one to ask before paying for either.
What to ask both
- The total, with the key and programming included.
- Original or aftermarket, and what happens if an aftermarket key stops working.
- Whether they will erase the lost key from the car.
- For the locksmith, the North Carolina license number.
Questions people in Raleigh ask
Will an aftermarket key void my warranty?
A key by itself generally shouldn't, but check with the dealer if the car is under warranty and you are unsure.
Can a dealer program a fob I bought online?
Some will and some won't, and dealers often charge for programming separately. Ask before you buy the fob.