When to Call a Car Key Locksmith vs. Car Dealership
So, you’ve lost your car keys. What now? Many people find themselves in this position. Whether your toddler hid them, you accidentally left them behind or in your car, or they seemingly disappeared into thin air, you need to figure out how to get into your car. That’s where an automotive key locksmith comes in.
Yet, what’s the difference between calling mobile locksmith services in Colorado Springs or calling your car dealership? Here’s everything you should know to make the smartest decision for your situation.
When Do You Need an Automotive Key Locksmith
Car key locksmiths are experts at addressing all issues with locks, keys, and locking mechanisms. The following situations are when you’ll need to rely on an automotive key locksmith to help you out of a sticky situation.
- Emergency Lockout
Everyone knows that dreaded moment when you just can’t find your keys. Are they hiding around the house? Are they in the car? Did you leave them at a friend’s house? You search and search until you’re panicked and late for wherever you were planning to go.
If you have an emergency lockout situation, an automotive key locksmith is a simple call to make. They’re a mobile business than can save the day, and you won’t have to tow your car to the dealership to get a new key made. (No one wants to deal with that hassle!)
- Key Duplication Services
Car key locksmiths offer both key duplication services as well as key replacement services. Whether you need to get into your car after locking yourself out or need to create an additional spare key, they’re able to help you.
- Convenience
Call up a locksmith key maker, and they’ll ask you where you are. Part of what is included in the service is coming to you at any location. Most people love the simple convenience of being able to stay where they are rather than having to get to a dealership somehow (without their car!) and waiting in a long line.
Mobile Locksmith vs. Dealership
So, which is better? Mobile locksmith services in Colorado Springs or a car dealership? Dealerships have all the tools to do every single service listed above. However, what can make an automotive key locksmith a better fit for you are the following two factors.
- Pricing
A dealership is great at what they do, but they aren’t a cheap option. Compared to a locksmith, you’ll almost always pay more. So, if you’re on a tight budget, we recommend pricing out car key locksmiths.
- Location
Car key locksmiths like Magic Key Locksmiths are mobile. We’re able to come to you and help you address the issue. A dealership does not provide this service, which means you’ll have to drive to their location. How are you going to do this if you don’t have a key to your car? Many people find the convenience of having a car key locksmith to them to be one of the greatest benefits.
How Long Do Key Duplication Services Take?
Not long at all. If you have a domestic or foreign vehicle with basic security, most key duplication takes around 15 minutes to duplicate and 30 minutes to reprogram. This means you could be on your way in just a couple of hours from when the lockout occurs.
That said, if you have a car with a more sophisticated security system (Porsche, Bentley, Maserati), then duplication could take anywhere from 4 to 24 hours.
Are Locksmiths Able to Program Transponder Keys?
A transponder key uses microchips that transmit a low-level signal from the key to the receiver in the car. Most keys covered in plastic are transponder keys. These make creating a new key more nuanced than just cutting a new key.
However, locksmiths are still able to do this in nearly all circumstances. There are some rare cases that dealer restrictions make it impossible. If you want to double-check before you hire a car key locksmith, simply ask. Your locksmith should be able to confirm using the make, model, and year of the vehicle. If they are not able to do it, you’ll need to visit a dealership.
Final Thoughts
If you’re currently locked out of your car in Colorado Springs, give Magic Key Locksmiths a call. We’re a mobile locksmith service that specializes in car lockouts and key duplication services. We’ll come to you and help you get on your way as fast as possible. Call (719) 210-7540 for a free estimate.
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