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Locksmith or Dealership for Car Keys?
Both can make you a new car key. Here is an honest look at when each makes sense, and what to ask before you decide.
Locksmith or dealership: how to decide
A dealership and a mobile locksmith can both get you a new key. The difference is usually convenience and what your particular car needs.
We are a locksmith, so we will tell you plainly when the dealer is the better choice.
Which one fits your situation?
Neither is right for every car.
A locksmith makes sense when…
you are stuck or the car cannot move, you want the work done where the car is, or you want an arrival window and a price before anyone comes out. A mobile locksmith comes to your home, work or roadside.
The dealer makes sense when…
your car is under warranty and the work is covered, your make or model needs dealer-only equipment, or a locksmith tells you honestly they cannot do your car.
Not sure? Call (919) 769-3432 with your year, make and model. If we cannot do it, we will say so.
Questions to ask before you choose
These apply to any shop you call.
Do you make keys for my exact car?
Give the year, make and model, and ask whether they have done it before.
What is the total price?
Ask for the complete price, including the trip and the programming, before anyone comes out.
Where will the work happen?
A mobile locksmith works where the car is. A dealer usually needs the car to come to them, which can mean a tow if you have no key.
What proof do you need?
Every legitimate shop asks for ID and proof of ownership. Be wary of one that does not.
What stays the same either way
No matter who you call:
- You will need photo ID and proof that the car is yours.
- The key has to be cut and, for most newer cars, programmed.
- You can ask for a spare while the work is being done.
- You should get the price before the work starts.
Related: lost all your car keys and key programming explained.
Mobile car key service by town
We come to you in Durham, Chapel Hill and nearby Wake County. Find your town:
Locksmith vs. Dealer Questions
Is a locksmith car key as good as a dealer key?
A properly cut and programmed key works the same way. What matters is that the locksmith can do your specific make and model.
Do I have to tow my car to the dealer?
If you have no working key, a dealer usually needs the car at the dealership, which can mean a tow. A mobile locksmith comes to the car.
Does using a locksmith affect my car warranty?
If you are unsure, check your warranty terms or ask your dealer before you decide. If your car is under warranty and the key work is covered, the dealer may be the better choice.
Can every locksmith do every car?
No. Some newer or specialty vehicles need equipment not every locksmith has. Ask before you book.
How much will it cost?
The price depends on the job, your vehicle or lock, and where you are. Call (919) 769-3432, tell us what is going on, and you will hear the price before we start work.
What are your hours?
We work 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, seven days a week.
Do you serve my town?
Durham Locksmith serves Durham, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, Morrisville, Research Triangle Park, Cary and Apex, plus Knightdale, Wake Forest, Fuquay-Varina, Clayton, Zebulon and Garner in NC.
Want a Straight Answer on Your Car?
Call Durham Locksmith with your car year, make and model. We will tell you if we can do it and what it costs before we head out.
(919) 769-3432