Sometimes we are just unfortunate enough to lose or lock our keys inside the car. This can happen at any time and it’s always an unpleasant surprise.
In such a situation its best to call a professional Locksmith immediately. There are many things to keep in mind when choosing a locksmith service.
Lockouts
One of the most common reasons people call a locksmith is for a lockout. Getting locked out of your car can happen when you’re in a hurry or forget to lock the door. In some cases, the key fob can also malfunction.
There are several ways to prevent this problem from occurring. One simple trick is to keep a spare set of keys in your pocket or purse. Another option is to leave a key with a trusted friend or family member. A spare key can be very useful in a car lockout emergency.
Many car owners take their vehicle locks and ignition systems for granted. It is common to neglect these important parts of the vehicle, especially when running errands and on busy streets. However, when they fail, it can lead to serious problems, such as a car lockout.
Often, a car lockout happens because the driver’s key fob malfunctions or breaks. This can be caused by dirt, dust, or other debris that builds up inside the lock. In addition, the battery in the key fob may die. A skilled technician can repair the key fob or replace it, but in a case of an emergency, it’s best to have the phone number of a 24 hour car locksmith handy. They can help you get back into your car without causing any damage.
Rekeying
Rekeying is a cost-effective alternative to replacing locks entirely. It is a quick and easy process that involves changing the key pins inside the lock cylinder so that a different key can open it. This allows you to prevent previous keys from being used in the lock and gives you a greater sense of security. However, rekeying is not without its limitations.
Re-keying locks can be done to prevent break-ins from a variety of situations. This includes losing your keys, moving into a new home, or even separating from a partner that still has a key. Regardless of the reason, it is important to rekey your locks as soon as possible to ensure that no one else has access to your home or office.
A professional locksmith can quickly rekey your locks in a timely manner, giving you peace of mind that your belongings are safe and that no one has access to your property. Depending on your preference, you can have your locks rekeyed to fit one or multiple keys. However, it is best to keep the key pins separated so that each set stays with its original lock.
One thing to note is that rekeying does not make your locks any more secure, since the security of a lock depends on how many key pins it has inside. However, rekeying is still a more affordable option than replacing your entire lockset.
Replacement Keys
When it comes to car keys, you probably do not realize how valuable they are until you lose them. Luckily, replacing them is not an impossible task. You just have to be prepared for the inconvenience and cost of having to do so.
The first step is to thoroughly search your immediate surroundings, retracing your steps. This is important because your car keys can often turn up in the most unlikely of places. After that, it is a good idea to call a locksmith. They will have the equipment and expertise to create a new key, even for modern vehicles with transponder or fob keys. Additionally, you should check to see if your car insurance or warranty covers the cost of replacing a lost key.
Older mechanical car keys are the easiest to replace. Most hardware stores or locksmiths can duplicate them fairly easily. This will save you a lot of money compared to going to the dealer.
If you have a more modern vehicle with a fob or smart key, you will need a locksmith specializing in auto keys or the dealership to help you. These types of keys can be programmed to the specific vehicle, and the process can be quite expensive. This is why it is so important to keep a spare key in a safe place.
Transponder Keys
The advent of transponder keys has made it much harder for car thieves to steal vehicles. They work by transmitting a code via an antenna ring inside the key to the vehicle’s ECM (electronic control module) when inserted into the ignition. The code tells the car’s computer to disengage the engine’s immobilizer and allow it to start. This technology is relatively new, and most modern cars are fitted with it. However, that doesn’t mean that they are invincible to theft – skilled criminals can still use tricks like “hot wiring” to steal cars.
A good automotive locksmith will be able to check whether or not your car has this technology installed. They can also program it if necessary. The process takes only a few minutes and requires no special equipment. If you’re looking to buy a new transponder key, you should always look for a trusted local locksmith that offers competitive prices. It’s best to avoid going to your car dealership if possible – they often charge higher prices due to their high overheads.
Some locksmiths can even clone preexisting transponder keys without having to take your old key apart. This way, you’ll have a spare key for emergencies and can save some money by not having to pay for a brand new key. However, these kinds of keys do require a battery and may need to be replaced every now and then.
