Lost your car keys? Locksmith vs. dealership

Losing your only car key used to mean a quick trip to the hardware store. Today most keys contain a chip, and many cars use push-to-start fobs that must be programmed to the vehicle. You have two main options for a replacement: the dealership or an automotive locksmith.

What you’ll need either way

• A government-issued photo ID
• Proof of ownership, such as the registration, title or insurance card, with a matching name
• Your vehicle’s make, model, year and, ideally, the VIN

Going to the dealership

• The dealership usually needs the vehicle on its lot to program a new key. If you’ve lost every key, that often means a tow.
• Some keys have to be ordered, which can take days depending on the vehicle and parts availability.
• For a small number of vehicles, especially some late-model European brands, the dealer may be the only option for programming.

Calling a mobile locksmith

• An automotive locksmith comes to where the vehicle is, whether that’s your driveway, a parking lot or the roadside, so there’s no tow.
• Keys for most makes and models can be cut and programmed on site, often the same day.
• A locksmith can also help if the key is broken, the ignition is damaged, or you’re locked out at the same time.

How to decide

If you still have a working key and just want a spare, either option can work, and convenience may decide it. If you’ve lost every key, your car is stuck somewhere, or you need it today, a mobile locksmith is usually the faster choice. Before any work starts, ask for a quote and confirm the key will be programmed, not just cut.

Once you have a new key

• Ask to have a spare made at the same time. It’s usually easier than starting from zero again.
• If your house keys were on the same ring, consider rekeying your home.

Lost your car keys in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or anywhere in Lee County? Call (239) 412-2998 and tell us your vehicle’s make, model and year. See car key replacement.