The Top 5 Car Key Scams and How to Avoid Them
The Top 5 Car Key Scams and How to Avoid Them
When you lose your car keys or get locked out, you’re already stressed. Unfortunately, scammers know this—and many shady “locksmiths” prey on desperate customers. At A Lenny Locksmith West Palm Beach, we believe knowledge is the best defense. Here are the top 5 car key scams you need to watch for—and how to avoid them.
1. Too-Good-to-Be-True Prices
Some ads promise “$29 car key replacement” or “$15 lockouts.” Once they arrive, the price suddenly skyrockets—sometimes hundreds of dollars higher.
How to avoid it: Always ask for a written estimate before the work begins. A Lenny Locksmith gives clear, upfront pricing so you know what to expect.
2. Fake “Local” Locksmiths
Scammers often create websites that look local but are really call centers located out of state. They send untrained contractors who may damage your vehicle.
How to avoid it: Check for a real local address and phone number. At A Lenny Locksmith, we’re proudly based in West Palm Beach and have vans on the road in your neighborhood.
3. Bait-and-Switch Keys and Fobs
Some shady operators bring cheap aftermarket remotes or cut blanks that don’t even work with your vehicle. Later, you’ll be forced to pay again for a proper replacement.
How to avoid it: Ask if the locksmith carries OEM or high-quality remotes and if they guarantee programming. Our team stocks the most common car keys and smart fobs and backs every service with a guarantee.
4. Drilling When It’s Not Needed
Dishonest locksmiths may tell you they have to “drill out” your ignition or locks to make a key, leaving you with extra repairs. In most cases, this is unnecessary.
How to avoid it: A trained locksmith has the right tools to cut and program keys without destroying your ignition. A Lenny Locksmith invests in dealer-level equipment to handle even the newest vehicles safely.
5. Hidden Fees for “Emergency” Calls
Scammers may quote one price on the phone, then tack on huge “emergency,” “travel,” or “after-hours” fees.
How to avoid it: Get all costs explained upfront. Our 24/7 mobile locksmith service has fair, honest pricing—day or night.
Protect Yourself with a Trusted Locksmith
The best way to avoid scams is to have a reliable locksmith saved in your phone before you need one. A Lenny Locksmith West Palm Beach has years of experience, dealer-grade programming software, and a reputation built on trust.
✔ 24/7 emergency service
✔ Licensed, insured, and local
✔ Dealer-level programming for all makes and models
If you ever need a car key replacement, ignition repair, or lockout service, call A Lenny Locksmith West Palm Beach today at 561-284-5090. Don’t let scammers take advantage of you—choose a locksmith who puts your security first.
