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Guide · Updated October 23, 2026

Locksmith or dealer for a new car key?

Both can make a working key. The difference is where the work happens, how long you wait, and whether the car has to be towed. Here is how they compare and when the dealer is the only option.

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Short answer
  • For most cars a mobile locksmith is faster and costs less, because there's no tow and no appointment wait.
  • The dealer is the only option for a few systems, such as Mercedes FBS4 and some newer cars.
  • Both can supply original keys. A locksmith can also offer quality aftermarket keys.
  • Always get the full price before work starts. A good locksmith doesn't add fees after programming.

How the two compare

Mobile locksmithDealer
WhereAt your carAt the dealership
All keys lostLocksmith comes to the carCar usually needs a tow
WaitOften same dayOften an appointment, sometimes a key order
Key optionsOriginal or aftermarketOriginal only
HoursMany work evenings and weekends; we're 24/7Service department hours

When the dealer is the right call

Some immobilizers can only be accessed with factory data. Mercedes cars with FBS4 are the best-known example. A few very new models are in the same spot for a while after release. An honest locksmith tells you this before coming out. We do.

Watch for the low quote

A common trap: a low phone quote, then extra charges after the key is programmed, when you can't really say no. Ask for the full price for your exact car and key type. Our quote by text is the price you pay.

What to send for an accurate quote

  • Year, make and model
  • Push to start or a key you turn
  • Whether you still have a working key
  • Where the car is

Written by the Keyhub Locksmith team, a mobile car locksmith in Marietta, GA. Updated October 23, 2026.

FAQ

Questions on this topic

Is a locksmith cheaper than the dealer for a car key?

Usually, especially when you'd otherwise need a tow. It depends on the car.

Is a locksmith key as good as a dealer key?

A locksmith can supply the same original key. Aftermarket keys are a cheaper option; quality varies by brand.

Keep reading

Read also

Pricing

Keys from $99. Fixed price by text before we come.

Learn moreGuide

Original or aftermarket key?

What's different, when aftermarket is fine, and when the original is worth it.

Read the guideAll keys lost

Lost car keys

Lost every key? We make a new one at the car and erase the lost keys from it.

Learn more

Get a price by text

Send the car and what you need. We reply with a price, usually within minutes. Day or night.

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Text or call · 24/7(470) 469-1578

Open 24 hours, 7 days a week. We are mobile: the key is made and programmed where your car is parked, at home, at work or on the road. We speak English, Spanish and Russian.

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keyhubllc@gmail.com · Keyhub LLC · Marietta, GA · mobile service only
Open 24/7 · (470) 469-1578
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