Services Offered By Locksmiths Automotive
Locksmiths Automotive offer a range of services that can help you save money and time. They can help with locking out cars, provide lock repairs and even set up single-key access to businesses and homes.
Locksmiths also know how to change the code of key fobs on modern vehicles that don't have traditional keys. This requires special equipment to reprogram the code on the chip inside your car key.
Duplicate and Car Keys Replacement
Auto locksmiths are frequently asked to design duplicate or replacement keys for automobiles. Losing your keys can be very inconvenient particularly at the gas station when you're trying to pay for your fuel or at the grocery store when you're filling up your trunk. A spare key can be useful in case you are unable to get yourself locked out of your vehicle.
Modern cars come with transponder chips embedded into the keys. These chips are used to identify the car and start it when you insert the key into the ignition. If you own an older car that has an ordinary, double-edged key making a replacement is usually easy and inexpensive at most locksmiths. They'll just need to know the year and model of your vehicle, as well as the VIN number (which you'll typically find on the dashboard or in your engine bay or locate it on your registration or insurance paperwork).
For more advanced models, however the procedure may be a bit more complex. In this case the locksmith will need to first get the key's cut from the cylinder and then take the key off and reassemble it. The locksmith will have to utilize a special tool for programming to match the key to the information stored in the chip. This is where it could be more expensive than cutting a basic key, but it's considerably less expensive than the cost of an original dealer replacement.
In certain situations the only way to replace a lost key in an electronic car push-start is to visit a dealership. This is because only a dealer has access to the tools and software necessary to reprogram a new key to your particular vehicle. A locksmith might not be able to assist you with this, but they can determine if an auto dealer is the best option for you. They'll also likely cost less than a dealer would, and will usually do the work on-site.
Installation of a single-key entry
If you're looking for a security system that blocks unauthorized key duplication and restricts access, you can get the most effective solution with 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 those who have sensitive information or valuable assets to protect.
This kind of system employs the latest bar code technology, similar to the ones you see on the products. It includes a unique, individual barcode that is created for each lock. Upon entering, the code is scan and recognized to open the door. This gives you a high level of security without the requirement for electronic readers or a complex IT configuration.
Repair or replacement of the locks on car doors
Many people have to repair or replace their car door locks. It could be due to normal wear and tear or simply being locked out of your car. Sometimes, it's just because they're not working properly. If you are in this type of situation, it is best to contact a locksmith and have the lock repaired instead of trying to fix it yourself. This could lead to spending more money and possibly making the problem worse.
If you have a manual car lock and you're able to access the vehicle through another door, you can try using an instrument to open the lock cylinder. It is risky if you do not know what you're going to do. If your car has an alarm, it could be risky. This should only be done in a location where you will not be seen by anyone.
You may also attempt to get into the vehicle by taking an interior side panel from the door with the malfunctioning lock. The process varies by vehicle model, but the general principle is to remove any hardware that holds the door handle plate or panel in place. Once you have done this, locate the rod that controls the lock and un-clip it with an ax or long-handled screwdriver. Then, move the lock control up and down to jiggle it, and then check if you are able to free it.
If this isn't working, try using wire hangers or a piece of thin metal to wedge the lock open. Be auto locksmiths if you are doing this in public because it could look like you are attempting to steal someone's car and is a crime. If you aren't comfortable doing this, it's better to just call an expert locksmith to fix the broken lock or replace it completely.
Some organizations, such as AAA, offer a free lockout service to their members. If you're a member, a technician can come to you to assist you. They'll have tools made specifically for cars, and are less expensive than paying for a professional locksmith to perform the same job.
Reprogramming Electronic Key Fobs
If you have a more modern vehicle that doesn't come with traditional keys, but instead has complex security systems and remote key fobs, you'll need locksmiths with access to special equipment designed specifically for these kinds of cars. This equipment enables the locksmith to plug into the computer in your car and use software to program your remote fob or proximity key.
It's a fairly simple procedure. However, the process of reprogramming will depend on your specific car model. It is important to note that the process of reprogramming will erase any current key fobs programmed by you. Therefore, you will have to program any other key fobs as soon as you've completed the reprogramming process. This will ensure that any existing key fobs don't get accidentally erased during the process.
Another service that many locksmiths provide is to reset your car's security system following the loss or theft of a key fob. Many vehicles employ a "handshake process that involves the key fob, the vehicle and the key fob to unlock and start their engines. This is designed to prevent other key fobs from getting access to your vehicle by intercepting the signal and attempting to match it with an old one that was registered previously.
A locksmith who has years of experience and expertise can reprogram key fobs for the majority of automobile models. They can also help you in reprogramming other kinds of electronic key fobs such as home alarm systems, or door locks.
Some people attempt to hack their own car by using a tool dubbed slim Jim, however this is only applicable to older models. For modern vehicles that use key fobs to open doors, these tools are no longer useful. An automotive locksmith knows how to get around these sensors by using a VATS passcode detector. This is essentially a software system that allows a locksmith to change the code on your key fob. The locksmith can then create a copy or clone key fob that is compatible with your vehicle.