These days, you can purchase pretty much anything online—and expect delivery the same day or week. From books and boats to coffee machines and insect repellant, there’s practically no item you won’t find somewhere on the digital landscape. Convenience is king.
Automobile and house keys are no exception. Just because something is available online, though, doesn’t mean it’s a wise decision. From warranty issues to low-quality materials, there are several reasons to avoid purchasing home and auto keys online.
Let’s go over a few of them.
1. Modern keys are complicated.
When you don’t get a key from a professional locksmith or dealer, you can’t guarantee it will work—especially if it’s a car key. Modern vehicles feature advanced electrical components, precise cutting and specific programming. The online retailer might not accept refunds, either, so if the key doesn’t work, you’re out of luck.
2. The quality of the keys isn’t guaranteed.
Dealers and locksmiths follow strict guidelines when it comes to materials and machinery. Online retailers don’t necessarily do the same thing. In fact, many online retailers use the cheapest materials and construction methods available to keep costs down. This results in a low-quality key.
3. You’re not really saving that much money.
The cost difference between an online key retailer and a professional locksmith isn’t significant, especially when you consider that the latter includes warrantied work, high-quality parts and labor, and satisfaction guarantees.
4. You likely won’t get a warranty, either.
Locksmiths and dealers care about their reputation, which is why they value experience, licenses and partnerships with professional organizations. As such, they often warranty their work. Online key retailers don’t rely on industry-recognized skill sets as much, and often don’t include warranties.
5. There’s less peace of mind.
Overall, you’re going to have less confidence in a key that you purchase online. If you’re talking about security for something as important as a car or house, do you really want to trust an anonymous person online who could potentially keep a copy of your key on file? Do you realy want something that controls access to your house or car going through the mail? With a professional locksmith, you can have peace of mind about your key purchase.
If you’re in need of a new automobile or home key, trust a professional locksmith instead of an online store. Contact the A-1 Locksmith team today for a consultation.
