So you’ve broken or twisted your car keys. Now what? Well, you have two car key replacement options: you can go to a qualified car locksmith or you can go to the car dealership where you purchased your car. Both have their pros and cons, so we’re going to break them down for you so you can decide which is best for you.
The benefits of using a car locksmith agency:
– An auto locksmith can typically duplicate any type of replacement key, even those requiring a transponder key.
– An Automotive locksmith can also create new car keys from scratch if you don’t have any, to begin with.
– Car locksmiths are usually cheaper for broken key extraction than going through your dealership – sometimes by as much as 50% for laser cut keys.
– A mobile locksmith or emergency locksmith is also more convenient since you can typically get same-day key duplication service and they come to you instead of you having to go to them.
– A good locksmith will have the tools and expertise necessary to fix any broken keys or lock problems you may have.
Additional benefits of using a car locksmith
If you’re looking for a quick but dependable key-cutting fix and don’t want to spend a lot of money, then a qualified car locksmith is your best bet. Car locksmiths are trained car key programming professionals who know how to handle all sorts of car key duplication and repairs. They’ll be able to get you a new car key in no time and won’t charge you an arm and a leg for their locksmith services. However, there are some drawbacks to using an auto locksmith. For one, they may not be able to get you a new spare key if your Honda key or Toyota original key is damaged beyond repair. Additionally, if it’s a lost key and hasn’t been found yet, then a local locksmith won’t be able to help you. In this case, your only option would be to go to the dealership.
The benefits of using a car dealership
– If you lose your only key, your dealership is likely the only place that can make a duplicate since they have the master copy.
– Only your dealership can program transponder keys – which means if your key has an electronic chip that needs to be programmed, you’ll need to go through them.
– While dealerships tend to be more expensive than locksmiths, they usually offer financing options that can make it easier on your wallet if you’re tight on cash.
– Dealerships offer extended warranties on parts and labor which can give you some peace of mind knowing that your repairs are covered in case something goes wrong down the road.
– Some dealerships even offer 24/7 roadside assistance in case you get stranded somewhere with a dead battery or flat tire.
Additional benefits of using a car dealership
If you have lost your only set of keys or if they’re damaged beyond repair, then your best bet is to go to the dealership where you purchased your car. While they may not be able to help you if your new key is just misplaced, they will be able to replace them for you if they’re lost or damaged. The downside of going to the dealership is that they will likely charge you more than trained auto locksmiths would. Additionally, it may take them longer to fix your smart key since they’ll have to order them from the manufacturer.
So which is better for you? A qualified automotive locksmith or a dealership? If you don’t mind spending a little extra money, then go with the dealership. However, if you’re on a budget, want superfast service or if your keys are not damaged beyond repair, then a qualified car locksmith is your best bet.
Whichever route you choose, we hope that your keys get repaired quickly and easily! And if you find yourself in need of a replacement car key in Chicago, give Chicago Car Keys a call at (773) 521-7000 today! We’re here to help!
