Services Offered By Locksmiths Automotive
Locksmiths Automotive offer a variety of services that can help you save money and time. They can assist with locking out cars, fix locks and even install single-key access to homes and businesses.
Locksmiths can also recode the key fobs for newer vehicles that don't have traditional keys. This requires special equipment to re-program the code in the electronic chip inside the car key.
Keys for duplicates and replacements for cars
Auto locksmiths are often called upon to create duplicate keys or replacement keys for automobiles. It can be a real trouble to lose your keys, particularly when it happens when you are at the gas station and paying for your fuel or when you're at the store to load your trunk. A spare key is also handy in the event that you are unable to get yourself locked out of your car.
Modern cars usually come with transponder chips in the key, which are used to identify the car and enable it to start when you insert it into the ignition. If you own an older car with the basic, double-edged keys making a replacement is usually easy and inexpensive at most locksmiths. They'll just need to know the year and make of your vehicle and the VIN number (which you can typically find on the dashboard or in the engine bay, or look it up on the registration or insurance papers).
The process may be more complex for more advanced models. In this case the locksmith needs to first get the key's cut from the cylinder and then take the key off and rebuild it. He or she will then require a programming tool to match the new key to the exact information stored in the transponder chip. This is when it can cost more than cutting a basic key, but it's significantly cheaper than the cost of an original dealer replacement.
In some cases, the only way to replace a lost or damaged key for the car with an electronic push-start system is to visit a dealer. This is because only dealers have access to the tools and software necessary to reprogram a new key to your specific car. If you contact locksmiths, they may not be able to do this for you, however they will be able to inform you whether or not you should go to a dealer as your best choice. They will charge less than a dealer, and will usually complete the work on site.
Installation of a Single-Key Access
If you are looking for a security system that blocks unauthorized key duplication and restricts access, you can locate the most suitable solution through a Medeco (ASSA ASSA Master Key Center) authorized locksmith. These systems are perfect for businesses that need to adhere to strict security regulations and reporting as well as for those who have sensitive information or valuable assets to safeguard.
This type of system essentially utilizes a cutting-edge bar code technology, similar to the ones you will find on your products. It includes a unique, individual barcode for each lock. When you enter the lock, the code is read and recognized to unlock the door. This allows for an extremely secure entry without the need for electronic readers and a complicated IT configuration.
Repair or Replacement of Car Door Locks
Many people have to repair or replace their car door locks. This could be due to normal wear and tear, or being locked out of the vehicle, or sometimes just simply because they're not working properly. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith to fix the lock, rather than attempting to do it yourself. This could result in you spending more money or making the problem worse.
If you can get into your car through another door, and you have a manual lock using a tool to force the lock cylinder to open. This is a risky method if you don't know the procedure however, and it is a risk to employ if the vehicle has an alarm system. You should perform this in a secure area where you won't be noticed by neighbors or anyone else.
You may also attempt to enter the vehicle by taking an interior side panel from the door with the lock that is malfunctioning. The procedure is different for each vehicle model, but the general concept is to take off any hardware that holds the door handle plate or door panel in place. Locate straight from the source that controls the lock, and remove it with a screwdriver. Then, you can move the lock control rod upwards and downwards to jiggle the mechanism and see if it can be unlocked.
If this doesn't help, you can use a thin piece of steel or a wire to wedge the lock. If you're doing this in public, it might appear as if you're trying steal someone else's car. This is illegal. If you do not feel comfortable doing this, it is recommended to call locksmiths to repair the lock or replace it entirely.
There are some organizations that offer free car lockout services for members, including AAA. If you are an AAA member, they can send an expert to your home to help you with this. They'll have tools designed for use on cars and are generally less expensive than paying a locksmith for this same service.
Reprogramming Electronic Key Fobs
If you have a newer vehicle that doesn't come with traditional keys and instead has sophisticated security systems and remote key fobs, then you'll require locksmiths with access to special equipment specifically designed for these types of cars. This equipment allows the locksmith to plug directly into the computer in your car and use software to program your remote key or proximity.
The process for this is generally simple. The reprogramming procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. You should also be aware that reprogramming your car will erase any existing key fobs programmed by you. So, you'll have to re-program other key fobs immediately after you complete the reprogramming process. This will ensure that any existing key fobs don't get accidentally wiped out during the process.
Another service that many locksmiths offer is the ability to reset the security system of your car after a lost or stolen key fob. The security systems of a variety of automobiles rely on a "handshake process between the key fob and the vehicle to unlock and start the engine. This is designed to prevent other key fobs from getting access to your vehicle through intercepting the signal and trying to match it to an older, previously registered one.
A professional locksmith who is skilled and experienced will know how to reprogram the key fobs of a variety of cars. They can also assist with changing the programming of other electronic keys like door locks or home alarm systems.
While auto locksmiths near me try to hack into their own vehicle using a tool known as a slim jim typically, this method is only successful in older models of vehicles. For modern vehicles that use key fobs to open the doors the slim jim tools are no longer useful. An automotive locksmith knows how to bypass these sensors by using a VATS passcode detector. This is essentially a software system that enables a locksmith to reprogram the code of your key fob. This allows the locksmith to create duplicates or clones of your original key fob that can then be used in conjunction with your vehicle.