US Locksmith is a licensed (Lic #00443LK) locksmith company serving all of South Florida since 2004. One of the simplest ways to prevent a car lockout is something most people keep putting off; getting a spare key made. A spare costs a fraction of an emergency locksmith call and takes minutes to make. Here is why every driver in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach should have one ready.
Why Do You Need a Spare Car Key?
A spare car key eliminates the emergency entirely. Lost your primary key at the grocery store, left it inside the car, or had it stop working at the worst possible moment, with a spare in a safe location, you are back on the road in minutes instead of waiting for roadside assistance.
- Avoid emergencies. A lockout in an isolated parking lot during South Florida's summer heat is stressful and potentially dangerous. A spare key prevents it completely
- Save money: Emergency lockout calls cost $75 to $150. A spare key duplication costs $5 to $25 for a basic key, or $75 to $200 for a transponder key
- Share access. Multiple family members who drive the same car benefit from having additional keys rather than trading a single key back and forth
What Types of Spare Keys Can a Locksmith Make?
A Weston car locksmith or any US Locksmith mobile technician can create any of these key types on site:
| Key Type | Cost Range | Time to Make |
|---|---|---|
| Standard metal key | $5–$25 | 5 minutes |
| Transponder chip key | $75–$200 | 15–30 minutes |
| Key fob / remote | $100–$250 | 20–30 minutes |
| Smart key / proximity key | $150–$350 | 20–40 minutes |
How Should You Store Your Spare Key Safely?
A spare key only works if you can access it when you need it. And if no one else can. Store your extra key in a secure but reachable spot such as a lockbox at home or with a trusted person. Never place it under the wheel well, in the engine compartment, or in a magnetic box under the car.
Tip: Update Your Spare When You Get a New Key
If you have your car rekeyed or get a replacement primary key, make sure the spare is reprogrammed to match the updated system. An outdated spare will not start the vehicle.
Is It Cheaper to Use a Locksmith or a Dealership for Spare Keys?
A locksmith is typically 30 to 50 percent cheaper than a dealership and comes to your location instead of requiring you to tow the vehicle. A mobile locksmith like US Locksmith handles everything at your driveway, office parking lot, or roadside, with the same quality result.
Already dealing with a car lock issue? Our team can solve the immediate problem and cut a spare at the same time so you are protected going forward.
Bottom Line
A spare car key is one of the cheapest insurance policies you can buy. It prevents lockouts, saves emergency fees, and takes less than 30 minutes to make. US Locksmith mobile technicians duplicate and program every key type across South Florida; call 1-866-776-6062 and get your spare made before you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
A basic metal key copy costs $5 to $25 at a hardware store. Transponder keys run $75 to $200 and key fobs with remote start can cost $150 to $350 depending on the vehicle. A locksmith is typically 30 to 50 percent cheaper than the dealership.
Yes. US Locksmith technicians carry the equipment to program key fobs, transponder keys, and smart keys for most major vehicle makes and models. Programming happens on site; no tow to the dealership required.
Keep your spare key in a secure location at home or with a trusted person. Never hide it under the vehicle, inside the wheel well, or in the engine compartment. A small lockbox mounted inside your garage is another practical option.
A standard metal key takes about 5 minutes. Transponder and smart keys require programming that adds 15 to 30 minutes. A mobile locksmith can handle the entire process at your location.
Call a licensed locksmith, do not try to force the door or window open. US Locksmith offers 24/7 emergency lockout service across South Florida with typical arrival times of 15 to 30 minutes. Call 1-866-776-6062.
Need Help With Your Car Locks? Call US Locksmith
US Locksmith is available 24/7 across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach County. Licensed (#00443LK), bonded, and insured.
Call 1-866-776-6062Further guidance is published by Broward County Consumer Protection.