Both can make you a key that works. The difference is usually time, towing and cost, and in a few cases, whether a key can be made outside the dealer at all.
When a mobile locksmith makes more sense
You lost every key and the car cannot move. You need the car today. The car is in a parking structure, an apartment garage or a lot where a tow truck cannot easily reach. You want a spare without taking half a day off work.
In all of these cases we come to the car, cut and program the key there, and you test it before you pay.
When the dealer may be the only option
Some of the newest models, especially some newer Mercedes-Benz keys and a few late-model Audis, can only get keys through the manufacturer. Teslas with every key lost usually need Tesla service for the first key. We check your VIN first and tell you honestly if yours is one of them.
Is a locksmith key as good as a dealer key?
A key programmed correctly works the same as the original. We use quality keys and test start, lock, unlock and trunk before we leave.
What to ask any locksmith before they come out
Ask for the total price on the phone. Ask if they will need proof of ownership (a real locksmith will). In California, ask for their state locksmith license number; licensed locksmiths are required to include it in their advertising.
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