Quick answer:
- A duplicate made while you have a working key is far cheaper than an all-keys-lost job.
- Spares prevent tow fees, missed work, and dealer wait times.
- A locksmith can make a spare at your home or office in one short visit.
The Math Is Lopsided
Here’s the simple economics: duplicating a key while you still have a working original is straightforward and affordable. Replacing your only key after it’s gone — an all-keys-lost situation — costs more, takes longer, and sometimes requires towing the car to a dealer. Making a spare is cheap insurance against an expensive, stressful day.
What a Missing Key Actually Costs You
It’s rarely just the key. Losing your only key can mean:
- A tow bill if the car has to go to the dealer
- Missed work or appointments while you wait
- Higher all-keys-lost programming fees
- Days of downtime for some dealer orders
A spare turns a potential bad day into a five-minute inconvenience.
When to Make One
The best time is now, while your current key works — especially if you only have one, you just bought a used car that came with a single key, or your key is visibly worn. Worn keys are also more likely to stick or break in the ignition, so a fresh spare doubles as a backup and a smoother daily key.
How We Make Your Spare
Our mobile van cuts and programs spare keys on-site — at your home, office, or anywhere in the Albuquerque metro. Bring your year, make, model, and VIN and we’ll confirm the price and make a working spare (transponder, flip key, or proximity fob) in one short visit. See what a duplicate costs or call (505) 818-0720.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is making a spare cheaper than replacing a lost key?
Almost always, yes. Duplicating from a working key skips the extra steps (and cost) of an all-keys-lost job, and avoids a possible tow to the dealer.
Can you make a spare for a push-to-start car?
Yes, for most vehicles we can cut (if needed) and program a spare proximity fob on-site. Have your year, make, model, and VIN ready.
Do you come to me to make a spare?
Yes. We’re mobile — we make spares at your location across the Albuquerque metro.
Need a locksmith in Albuquerque? Call Just In Time Locksmith at (505) 818-0720 for fast, local, upfront-priced service — or request service online. 24/7 across the metro.