Services Offered By Locksmiths Automotive
Locksmiths automotive offer many valuable services that save time and money. They can help with locking out cars, fix locks and even install single-key access to homes and businesses.
Locksmiths can also recode the key fobs of newer vehicles that don't have traditional keys. This involves using specially designed equipment to reprogram chip inside your car key.
Duplicate and replacement car keys
One of the most popular services that auto locksmiths offer is creating duplicate or replacement keys for cars. It's an trouble to lose your keys, especially when when you're at the gas station paying for your fuel or when you're at the store to load your trunk. A spare key can be helpful in the event you happen to lock yourself out of your car.
Modern cars typically have transponder chips embedded in the key that are used to identify the car and permit it to start once you insert it into the ignition. Locksmiths are able to create replacement keys for older cars that have a simple double-edged, simple key. The locksmith must know the year of your car made, model, and VIN number.
For more advanced models, the procedure can be a bit more complicated. In this case, the locksmith will have to first get the key's cuts out of the cylinder and then take the key apart and restore it. The locksmith will have to utilize a special tool for programming to match the key with the information stored in the chip. It is more expensive to program a key instead of cutting one, but is cheaper than buying a replacement from a dealer.
In certain situations the only way to replace a lost key for an electronic push-start car is to visit a dealer. This is because only dealers have access to the tools and software required to program a new key for your particular vehicle. If you call locksmiths, they may not be able to accomplish this for you, however they will be able to inform you if the dealership is your best choice. They'll charge less than a dealer, and will often do the work on-site.
Installation of a Single-Key Entry
If you're in the market for a high-security system that blocks unauthorized duplicate keys and restricts access to sensitive areas you can get the most efficient solution by contacting locksmiths who are authorized Medeco (ASSA ABLOY) Master Key Center. These systems are ideal for businesses that need strict security regulations and reporting, and also for those who have sensitive information or valuable assets to protect.
This type of system essentially employs the latest bar code technology, similar to the ones you will find on your products. It has an individual, unique barcode that is created for each lock. The code is read upon entry and then recognized by the system to open the lock. This provides a high degree of security without the need of electronic readers or a complicated IT configuration.
Repair or replacement of car Door Locks
Many people have to repair or replace their car door locks. This can be due to normal wear and tear, or being locked out of their vehicle, or sometimes just simply because they are not working properly. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith to fix the lock instead of trying to fix it yourself. This could result in you spending more money or making the issue more difficult.
If you are able to enter your car through a different door, and you have an open-door lock that is manual using a tool to force the lock cylinder into. This technique can be risky when you aren't sure of what you are doing but it can be dangerous to employ if the vehicle is equipped with an alarm. You should also only use this method in a safe location where you won't be noticed by your neighbors or anyone else.
You can also try to enter the vehicle by removing the inside side panel of the door that has the malfunctioning lock. The process varies by vehicle model, but the basic idea is to remove any hardware that holds the door handle plate or door panel in place. After that, locate the lock control rod and remove it using the help of a screwdriver or a long pick. Then, move auto locksmith service up and down to shake it and check if you are able to free it.
If this fails, try using a wire hanger or piece of thin metal to wedge the lock open. If you're doing this in public, it could appear like you're trying to steal someone else's car. This is a crime. If you aren't comfortable doing this, it is best to contact locksmiths to repair the lock or replace it completely.
Some organizations, such as AAA offers a no-cost lockout service for their members. If you're a member, they can send an expert to your location to assist you in this. They'll have tools designed to be used on vehicles that are usually less expensive than hiring a locksmith for this same service.
Reprogramming Electronic Key Fobs
If you have a newer car that doesn't have traditional keys, but instead has complex security systems and remote key fobs, you'll need locksmiths with access to specific equipment for those kinds of cars. This equipment enables locksmiths to connect to the car's computer and utilize an application program to program your remote fob or proximity key.
It's a fairly easy procedure. However, the reprogramming process does depend on your specific car model. You should also be aware that reprogramming your car will erase any existing key fobs you programmed. You'll have to reset any other keyfobs after you've completed the reprogramming procedure. This will ensure that your existing key fobs aren't accidentally erased during the process.
Another service that many locksmiths provide is to reset your car's security system after a lost or stolen key fob. The security systems of a variety of vehicles rely on a 'handshake' process between the key fob and the vehicle to unlock and start the engine. This is to prevent other key fobs from entering your vehicle through interfering and comparing the signal with an older, registered one.
A locksmith with years of experience and expertise can reprogram key fobs to fit most automobile models. They can also assist with reprogramming other types of electronic key fobs, such as alarm systems for your home or door locks.
Some people attempt to hack into their own vehicle by using a tool dubbed a slim Jim, but this is only applicable to older models. These tools are not suitable for modern vehicles that use key fobs for opening the doors. An automotive locksmith knows how to get around these sensors using a VATS passcode detector. It is essentially a software system that allows a locksmith to reprogram the code of your existing key fob. This allows the locksmith to create an identical copy or clone of your original key fob, which is then paired with your vehicle.