Where the dealer cost comes from
A dealership prices keys with parts markup, shop labor rates, and the overhead of a large facility built in. The key or fob itself is marked up from what it costs them, and the programming is billed at the same hourly rate as other service work.
On top of that, many dealers will not start until the car is physically at the shop. If your car is not drivable to them or every key is lost, you may be paying for a tow before any key work even begins.
The hidden cost of time
Dealer key work often means an appointment, a drop-off, and a wait that can stretch into the next day if the part has to be ordered. For some models the dealer orders the key by VIN and you wait for it to arrive. That lost time has a real cost, especially if it is your only car.
A mobile locksmith carries common keys and fobs in the van and comes to you, so the typical job is finished in one visit instead of stretched across days.
How to keep the cost down
For most vehicles, calling a locksmith first is the cheaper and faster path. We come to your location in West Palm Beach, cut and program on site, and skip the tow. A basic metal key is the least expensive option, while smart keys and all-keys-lost jobs cost more because they take more work and parts.
We always give you a clear quote for your exact year, make, and model before we start. If your car happens to be one of the rare dealer-only cases, we tell you that honestly so you are not paying twice.
Still have a key or fob question?
Tell us your year, make, and model and we will confirm exactly what your vehicle needs before we head out.