The experience of misplacing your car keys or leaving them inside your car is not one you want to experience. It can leave you stranded, frustrated, and confused about what to do next. Though you may be tempted to go directly to a dealership, there is likely a better alternative available: a locksmith.
This is where incorporating a trained auto locksmith into your life makes more sense to most drivers.
1. Fast Service When You Need It Most
Car locksmiths tend to work much faster than dealerships. They can also travel to you because they offer mobile locksmith services. This is convenient because you can call on them whether you are at home, work, or stranded in a parking lot.
They normally request you to make an appointment. Sometimes, they may ask you to have your car towed to their shop, which takes time and is costly.
2. Typically Less Expensive Than Dealerships
Most people believe that one can only acquire a new car key from a dealership. This is not correct. An auto locksmith can offer this service at a cheaper rate than dealerships—sometimes up to 50% cheaper.
They don’t have overhead costs like a main dealership, and they transfer those savings to you.
3. They Can Work With Most Makes and Models
A reputable auto locksmith can make keys to work on almost any type of vehicle, including more modern versions that have smart keys and/or keyless entry. They can do this with modern equipment just like dealerships can.
So, even if you have a modern key system on your car, they can probably solve your issue.
See also: Financial Habits That Set Successful Small Businesses Apart
4. No Waiting Needed to Get a New Key to Unlock
Car dealerships may have to place orders with manufacturers to acquire keys. This takes days, if not weeks, particularly if it is a new model. An auto locksmith typically has blanks available along with equipment to make your keys on the spot.
This implies you can get back on the road much sooner.
5. They Can Help with More Than Just Lost Keys
Car locksmiths do not merely make new keys. They can additionally assist with:
- Your key snapped in the lock
- Your remote key isn’t working
- Your car will not recognize your key
- You’ve left the keys inside the car
They know how to handle these issues quickly without causing any harm to your vehicle.
6. Emergency Calls-Out, Day & Night
Most locksmith shops offer 24-hour services. This is very convenient because if you find yourself stranded outside when you get locked out, they will come to assist you. This is very important, especially if you are somewhere far from home and you don’t have a spare key.
7. Less Hassle and Paperwork
Dealing with a dealer requires extra documentation, ID, vehicle logbooks, and more. An auto locksmith typically requires no more than proof of ownership of the vehicle. Their main priority is to complete their work swiftly, without any hang-ups.
A specialist auto locksmith can be quicker, cheaper, and more convenient than a dealership locksmith when it comes to a replacement car key. This is because they can resolve any issue with your keys, such as being left in the car or just needing another one, on the same day. It is essential to verify reviews and ensure that you hire a locksmith who is well-trained and insured. This ensures that you receive both peace of mind and a functional key.
