Assessing Your Security Needs

The first step in selecting the right lock for your home or business is to assess your security needs. Consider factors such as the crime rate in your area, the value of your property, and the level of access control required.

Investing in robust locking mechanisms is essential for high-security environments, such as businesses handling sensitive information or homeowners with valuable assets. On the other hand, residential properties in low-crime neighborhoods may prioritize affordability and convenience over advanced security features.

Exploring Types of Locks Available

The next consideration is to explore the types of locks available and their suitability for your specific requirements. Traditional options such as deadbolts remain popular choices for their reliability and durability. Deadbolts come in various configurations, including single-cylinder, double-cylinder, and jimmy-proof designs, each offering different levels of security and convenience.

Consider upgrading to high-security deadbolts featuring hardened steel construction and anti-drill features for added protection.

In recent years, Smart locks have emerged as innovative solutions for enhancing security and convenience. These electronic locks allow remote access control via smartphone apps, digital keypads, or voice commands, eliminating the need for traditional keys. Smart locks offer features such as activity logs, temporary access codes, and integration with home automation systems, making them ideal for homeowners seeking modern security solutions.

Compatibility with Existing Hardware

Compatibility with existing hardware is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a lock for your home or business. Evaluate the type of doors and frames you have, as well as any additional security devices or access control systems in place. Ensure that the chosen lock is compatible with your door’s dimensions and configuration, and consider Consulting With a Locksmith or security professional for expert advice.

For businesses, compatibility with existing access control systems and security protocols is paramount. Look for locks that seamlessly integrate with your organization’s infrastructure, allowing for centralized management and monitoring of access permissions. Consider factors such as scalability, ease of integration, and compatibility with industry standards to ensure a seamless transition and optimal security posture.

Making an Informed Decision

Ultimately, choosing the right lock for your home or business requires careful consideration of various factors, including security needs, types of locks available, and compatibility with existing hardware. By assessing your specific requirements and exploring the range of options available, you can make an informed decision that prioritizes both security and convenience.

When evaluating different locks, research reputable brands and consult with locksmiths or security professionals for expert guidance. Consider factors such as durability, ease of installation, and warranty coverage to ensure long-term satisfaction with your lock.

Remember that investing in quality locks is an investment in the safety and security of your property and loved ones.

Choosing the right lock for your home or business lets you enjoy peace of mind knowing that your premises are protected against unauthorized access and intrusions.

Your car is not just a means of transportation; it’s also a valuable asset that needs to be protected. Car theft and break-ins can happen anywhere, anytime, but there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

Here are some essential tips for keeping your car secure:

1. Park in Well-Lit Areas: When parking your car, choose well-lit areas, especially at night. Brightly lit areas are less attractive to thieves as they prefer darkness to carry out their activities unnoticed. If possible, park your car in a garage or a secure parking lot with surveillance cameras.
2. Lock Your Doors: This might seem obvious, but many car thefts occur because owners forget to lock their doors. Always double-check that your doors are locked before leaving your car unattended, even if you step away for a few minutes.
3. Use a Steering Wheel Lock: Steering wheel locks are highly effective deterrents against car theft. These devices make it nearly impossible for thieves to steer your car, even if they manage to break in. Investing in a quality steering wheel lock can provide your vehicle with an extra layer of security.
4. Install an Alarm System: Installing a car alarm system can significantly reduce the risk of theft or break-ins. Modern alarm systems include motion sensors, remote control, and smartphone integration, allowing you to monitor and control your car’s security remotely.
5. Hide Valuables: Avoid leaving valuables like laptops, smartphones, or bags visible inside your car. Thieves are more likely to target vehicles with valuable items in plain sight. If you must leave belongings in your car, store them in the trunk or out of sight under the seats.
6. Use a Tracking Device: Consider installing a GPS tracking device in your car. These devices can help authorities locate your vehicle in the event of theft, increasing the chances of recovery. Some tracking devices offer additional features such as remote engine shutdown and real-time alerts.
7. Be Mindful of Spare Keys: Avoid hiding spare keys inside your car, as thieves know all the common hiding spots. Instead, keep spare keys in a secure location at home or with a trusted friend or family member.
8. Stay Vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings and immediately report any suspicious activity to authorities. If you notice someone loitering around your car or behaving suspiciously, trust your instincts and take action to protect yourself and your vehicle.

Following these tips can significantly Reduce The Risk Of Car Theft and break-ins. Remember that proactive measures are key to keeping your car secure, so don’t wait until it’s too late to take action.

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and prioritize the safety of your vehicle at all times.

If a lock can’t be readily picked, it’s considered “high security.” Does this imply that other locks are more easily picked if this is the case? Experts, on the other hand, disagree!

If you have ever looked for locks for your home or business, you’ve likely come across the phrase “high-security.” There is a good chance you have disregarded it as industry-speak or a marketing phrase. When it comes to protecting your home, high-security locks are the best in the business, making your life simpler and more difficult for crooks.

For a variety of purposes, locks are available at a variety of pricing ranges. Some are easy enough to be picked up with a backup key or other means of access. Biometric access and mobile applications are two of the most advanced options available. In many cases, these locks can only be fitted by a professional locksmith. High-security locks essentially provide more protection against manipulation, damaging assaults, breaches, and off-site key duplicating. With the addition of electronics, the possibility for audit logs, surveillance, and quick recovery of hacked or expired credentials increased.

If you want to invest in a high-security lock to protect your valuables, you’ll also need to secure the room’s windows and other entrance points.

However, you must first learn how safe a high-security lock is and if you should get one for your garage door.

Features Of High-Security Locks

1. Bolt Strength

Heavy and robust bolts are needed to prevent them from being picked or shattered by heavy tools like a battering ram or a sled hammer. A thief should be unable to lift the bolt with their own hands. When brute force or machines are used to shatter a bolt, only a bolt constructed of a strong metal can survive them.

2. Copying Keys

Inevitably, there will be a lockout at some point. As a result, spare or duplicate keys are brought into the picture. It would help if you kept your keys out of the hands of thieves who may use them to gain entry to your house and steal your valuables. As a result, keeping keys just where you need them makes sense and is a very common thing to do.

You may want to use a high-security lock featuring patented keyways for additional security. Special machines must break or produce replicas of these locks or their keys.

3. Hardware

The heavier the locks, the more secure your possessions are. Locks built of hefty metal are almost impossible to pick or break. A lighter lock of inferior metals or polymers severely compromises your house or office’s security.

If you ever find yourself locked out, only a Professional Emergency Locksmith will be able to free you from your shackles and get entry.

4. Drill Resistance

Drilling into a lock is one of the simplest methods to pick or break it. Drills are also used by many locksmiths when required. Drilling a hole in a lock renders it useless. Anti-drill plates and hardened steel ball bearings are common features in high-security locks.

How To Secure Your Home With High-Security Locks?

Burglars are unlikely to break in unless you have valuables in your house unless they know you have anything they want. Most often, burglars will attempt to enter your house via an unlocked sliding door or window. It doesn’t matter how costly the lock on your front door is; your investment is wasted if your windows and backdoors aren’t adequately protected.

The majority of burglars will gain entry to your possessions via an open window or an unlocked door. That’s why many individuals nowadays want home security systems installed. Using a smartphone app or a code, you can access your home’s smart locks, removing the need to retain physical keys.

For example, the area where your gun collection is stored would be a good candidate for high-security locks since it has only one way in and out.

How To Secure Your Business With High-Security Locks?

Locking business establishments with a strong, high-security lock is a good idea. It is also important to protect the windows and other points of entry in order to provide failsafe security and safety.

Biometric locks, as well as other smart locks, on the other hand, may be rather expensive in security systems of this kind. With this, you won’t have to keep making new copies of your keys each time an employee departs or doesn’t show up for work.

Bottom Line

When there are no other ways in or out of a room, high-security locks are your best bet. Investing in a high-security lock is meaningless if you use it to protect your front door, not your rear door, windows, or other access points.

While many immediately turn to high-tech solutions like security cameras, starting with the fundamentals is quite simple. It’s an essential aspect of home or business security to make sure your doors are locked when you leave. Because of human error, we recommend installing automated door closers in order to exclude them from the equation.

Get in touch with us for the finest door hardware services, such as door closer around.

How Do Door Closers Work?

A door closer is a mechanical mechanism that ensures a door shuts once it has been opened. Most building codes require door closers to keep fire doors closed, but many companies also have them on other garage doors in their facilities. Our recommendation is to put door closers on all outside doors as a precaution against intruders.

Doors in heavy traffic areas may benefit from these devices since they prevent doors from banging or being opened too forcibly, which can lead to injury.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A DOOR CLOSERS

• Security

When discussing the need for Door Closer Adjustments, a facility’s safety comes first. Initially, it may seem odd to think that a door shutting may affect a structure’s security. Isn’t the only thing it accomplishes to ensure that the door shuts properly? Doesn’t it follow that the locking mechanism, not the door-closing hardware, is responsible for securing the door?

The lock goes into action only after the door is shut and secured. This can only happen if the door is in excellent working condition. The door closer settings have to be right for the door to shut and lock correctly when someone goes through the opening. When the door closer is done, set the latch rate so that the latch secures itself in the striking mechanism.

• The ADA’s Requirements

Consider the Americans with Disabilities Act while considering door closer modifications (ADA). People with disabilities or other limitations will be able to open and close the door as a consequence. When adjusting a door closer, make sure that it doesn’t need a bodybuilder to open and go through it. The door should open with no more than five pounds of pressure from the latch.

The closing spring speed and power increase as the door progresses with the door’s movement. Changes to the closer may be made to regulate these characteristics of the door closer. Fire ratings or the placement of outside doors may take precedence over these criteria.

• Life Safety

Finally, we’ll talk about how to adjust door closers to meet life safety standards, including fire ratings. For a fire-rated door to function properly, it must be able to close and latch on its own. While the door has a Latching Mechanism, it will not function as intended if the closure fails to shut the door completely.

When there is a fire, the door should be closed so that the fire cannot spread and the inhabitants may safely leave the building. To maintain the egress route clear of the fire, smoke, and other hazards, all of the door closers in the area must close the doors at all times.

Additionally, all doors that are meant to be locked and protected must work correctly in the case of an active shooter. A closed and protected entrance may save lives in these instances.

• Prevents The Slamming Of Doors

Door closers have a mechanism that ensures a regulated door closing. The damper function maintains a particular degree of force and speed in the door’s closing. This is critical when it comes to doors with weight and persons at risk of harm.

Door closers, for example, protect tiny children and others with disabilities from being crushed by heavy doors. The agony of pinched fingers might be felt by anybody unable to move fast enough. Door closers are also useful for those who carry a lot of weight, such as a lot of luggage.

In fact, door closers minimize injuries and encourage accessibility since they prevent doors from being slammed shut.

• Controls The Open Swing Of Doors

As a standard feature, most door closers have a backcheck mechanism. Backcheck slows or even stops the door during its opening swing to prevent it from opening too quickly.

It might be hazardous when the strong wind and the doors fly wide. Doorknobs may also be thrown open forcibly by people.

Bottom Line

Adjust the door closers on every door in a building to their proper settings. Before you complete the door installation, you should ensure everything is operating correctly. In terms of performance and safety, it has the potential to make a substantial difference.

The importance of a key is often overlooked, despite its importance in everyday life. We depend on these simple, everyday goods to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our possessions. Many distinct sorts of keys are available, each with a specific function.

For your convenience, we’ve outlined some of the most typical uses for keys, the fundamental parts of a key, and the many different types of house keys available to you.

Types Of Home Locks

Keys for the home may come in a wide range, but we’re most likely just acquainted with a single kind. These are a few of the options:

• Mechanically Cut Keys

Older autos and doors in houses and businesses are popular places to find mechanically cut keys. A ridged pattern connects to the proper lock when they’re sliced on one end alone. Die-cast or carved keys get their name from the mechanical cutting machines that make them.

A significant drawback of mechanical cut keys is that they are the most easily replicated and do not provide much security. Duplicates are easy to create at a hardware store or self-service key cutter because of their basic design. As a result, these keys are both inexpensive and simple to make.

• Four-sided Key

This is by far the most common kind of key to be found in homes. They may be identified by the two or four sets of teeth on the opposing sides of the blade. For the best protection, go for the four-sided option. Because of their rarity and difficulty in duplicating, these items are unlikely to be targeted by criminals.

The lock to which the key is matched is more difficult to open since it has many teeth. Double and four-sided keys are the way to go if you want to upgrade your mechanically cut home key to something more secure on a budget. You may significantly improve the safety and security of your home with very little money and effort.

• Dimple Keys

As the name suggests, these keys feature a wide range of dimples on the blade. Two protruding pins in a lock match these dimples. When the dimple key is placed into the lock, it aligns the dimples with the pins, and the lock is then released.

This ensures that dimple keys work regardless of how they are placed into the lock since all sides are similar. Due to this, you don’t have to spend time finding out how to hold the key before inserting it.

The most typical use for these keys is as an additional line of defense against intruders in private residences. Your locks and Apartment Keys can be changed by hiring a locksmith.

• Abloy Keys

To access disc tumbler locks, Abloy keys are required. After being inserted, the key causes the lock’s discs to spin, and the lock will unlock when the discs are correctly aligned. It’s almost unheard of to find Abloy keys these days. Despite this, they’re a huge hit elsewhere.

• A Primary Key

When creating security, the main key is the essential kind of key, as the name indicates. The primary key can unlock all locks, even if multiple keys match specific locks.

Keys to individual offices are common, and managers often keep the master key to ensure that, in the case of an emergency, all rooms in the building may be accessed. When it comes to apartment complexes, though, primary keys are more common.

• Skeleton Keys

It’s common for skeleton keys, or “passkeys,” to be mistaken for primary keys. When it comes to main and skeleton keys, the distinction lies in that primary keys may open many locks. Only warded locks may make use of these keys.

One of the most valuable features of skeleton keys is a serrated, protruding component at the blade’s tip. Most warded locks are no longer in use since they are simple to pick up and offer insufficient protection. As a consequence, the number of skeleton locks has decreased.

• Magnetic Keys

The magnets in a magnetic key allow the tumblers in a lock to line up appropriately and release based on the size and orientation of the magnets. Because these keys utilize passive mechanics, no electronics are needed.

Several types of locks, including lever locks, deadbolts, and cylinder locks, use magnetic keys.

Bottom Line

The only physical keys we use consistently if we’re being honest, are three of the many key types we utilize daily. Have three: a personal, a vehicle, and a postal box.

It’s not just three main sorts. Our goal is that reading about the various sorts of keys described above has given you a better understanding of which keys you may utilize on your keyboard.

When you consider everything, you keep in your pockets, such as the keys to your vehicle, front door, side door, back door, mailbox, and maybe even your mother-in-house, the law, and several tiny rewards cards curved and perforated to hang easily.

It is easy for key chains to get packed very quickly. Because of this, you’ll constantly search for the right key to open the door or locker you are trying to enter and squander precious time each day.

Rekeying a few of your locks is a simple, inexpensive, and do-it-yourself option that may alleviate some of your stress. This comprehensive guide will teach when, why, and how to do a lock rekey.

How Does A Lock Operate?

Having an understanding of how locks function is helpful before rekeying a lock.

A pin and tumbler lock is the kind of lock that is often seen on doorknobs and deadbolts. There are pins and springs within a cylindrical plug. A precise key shape must fit between the pins of various lengths to insert and operate the lock. To make this function, the pins’ size must match the depth of the key’s grooves.

It is necessary to dismantle a lock, remove the pins, and then replace them with new pins that have cuts that correspond to those on the key that will be used to open the lock. Only then will the lock be able to be opened with the desired key. Let’s have a look at the process.

Tumbler And Pin Lock

A steel cutaway is used to rotate a given key shape in a pin and tumbler lock, which can be found on locking doorknobs and deadbolts. This steel cutaway carries a cylindrical plug and many springs and pins. For a key to spin the locking mechanism, its pin arrangement must match the depth of the key’s different grooves.

In order to use a different key to open the door lock, you must dismantle the lock and remove and replace the pins, which have varying heights, with new pins that match the cuts and grooves in the new key. Alternatively, you may use the same key to unlock all of the doors.

For Homeowners, This Is Ideal!

Rekeying is the finest option if you want a single Key To Unlock All Your House or apartment locks. A complete key ring may be reduced to only the essentials, saving you time and space in your wallet or handbag and enabling you to locate the right one quickly.

When it comes to security, rekeying a lock is a good option. To ensure that they are the only ones with access to their new house after it has been constructed and numerous others, including builders, subcontractors, and inspectors, have duplicate door keys, new homeowners should confirm this before taking possession.

You may trust a qualified locksmith for your home’s security.

Are You Replacing Or Rekeying?

In the same way, landlords and property managers often rekey door locks when a new tenant moves in. Replacement of the whole lock is an option when moving into a previously owned home or when you lose your extra keys. Your house is safe and secure since no one else has the key.

Both are replacing and rekeying a lock, effectively modifying a lock to restrict access; however, both processes are only necessary in exceptional cases.

• If you lose your key, you won’t be able to dismantle your current locks for rekeying. First and foremost, get a new lock installed.

• Rekeying is not an option for repairing a worn or broken lock. When a lock is broken or bent, your locksmith will likely need to fix it sooner rather than later. Unless you want many locks to share a single key, you don’t need to rekey them if your goal is to have the only key.

Locks Made By The Same Manufacturer

To rekey several locks to fit one key, they must be made by the same manufacturer.

For example, you must use Schlage locks for any other locks you want to be rekeyed to match if your front door lock is a Schlage. You can’t rekey a Kwikset or Sargeant lock to open with the same key as a Schlage lock since each lock has a distinct keyhole size that only accepts its key.

Before rekeying, you’ll need to pick one lock brand and replace the others to match.

Bottom Line

Because of all the keys the previous owner had lying about, you are anxious to move in. Alternatively, if you are sick of carrying about a jumble of keys in your pocket or handbag, you may want to have a single key that can unlock all of your doors.

Rekeying your home’s locks may serve both of these purposes. You may be shocked at how simple it is.

It’s very uncommon for doorknobs and handles to come loose due to the daily wear and tear. When the handle pulls away, jiggles, or simply continues spinning for no apparent reason, you know it’s only a matter of time until the door handle repair is required!

For your convenience, we’ve put together this instruction on repairing those annoying door handles and knobs.

Doorknob Types That Are The Most Popular!

• Set screws are exposed.

Typically, a doorknob is attached to a threaded spindle with a set of visible screws, and this doorknob is no exception. The hidden screw doorknob is more difficult to tighten because you cannot see how the doorknob is attached and how all the components will fit together as readily as possible with the exposed screw doorknob.

• Hidden screw-in doorknob

In the same way, an exposed set screw doorknob has screws holding it to the spindle. This doorknob also has screws, although they cannot be seen. Doorknobs with screws hidden beneath a decorative faceplate are significantly different from those with screws exposed.

Why Doorknobs And Handles Can Get Loose?

Doorknobs and handles may become loose for a variety of reasons, including:

• The door handle or doorknob may become shaky or loose with time, necessitating an adjustment to tighten it back up.
• The handle or lock may not work correctly because it is an older device with accumulated dirt, dust, and other pollutants.
• The door plate may be missing a screw or be loosely fastened.
• In some instances, the doorknob or handle mechanism may be dysfunctional.

Door Handles And Knobs: How Do You Fix Them?

Step 1: Take off the doorknob or handle.

You should remove the handle if you didn’t tell me what’s wrong with it immediately.

Simply find the screw and loosen it with an Allen key or screwdriver if it is accessible. After taking out all of the screws, you should then be able to take out the door handle or doorknob.

Locate the detent access hole if you have a handle or doorknob with concealed screws. The door handle or knob will not be able to rotate on the door because the detent hole has a pin that protrudes from it and is triggered by a spring. To push down on the pin, you’ll need a flathead screwdriver.

After completing this step, you should rotate the shaft, which will allow you to remove the knob or handle from its location.

Step 2: Remove the foundation.

After removing the door handle or doorknob, the following step is to take the door’s base off the door. Using a flathead screwdriver, carefully peel the ring apart from the base to remove it.

When removing the base, take care not to harm the backing plate. If the backing plate becomes broken, this may prevent the handle from being correctly reattached at any point in the future, in which case you will need to Contact a Locksmith.

Step 3: Locate and tighten the screws.

A set of screws should be visible when the base is removed, and they’ll probably need to be tightened. The backing plate, which keeps the handle or doorknob together, is attached to the door using these screws. Tighten each screw while gripping the backing plate with both hands.

Step 4: It’s time to put everything back together.

After ensuring that the screws are securely in place, you can reattach the base to the backing plate by simply clipping it into position. After the base has been secured, the handle or doorknob may be positioned on the spindle shaft such that the holes can be aligned with either the screw holes (if there are visible screws) or the detent (should you have hidden screws).

Replace any exposed screws, and your door handle or doorknob should now work properly.

Fixing A Loose Doorknob

“How do you repair a loose doorknob?” is a common question.

• Set screws, comparable to a grub screw, loosen and lose their hold on the handle spindle when a doorknob rotates loosely on the spindle.
• Look around the collar of the doorknob to find the loose screw, and then use the right screwdriver to tighten the screw. This will allow you to adjust either the screw or the Allen key.
• Getting a new screw for the doorknob is possible by taking it to the hardware shop.

Bottom Line

At some point, every homeowner and company owner will be forced to deal with the issue of doorknobs or handles that are too loose.

It is just a matter of time until the handle on the door becomes an annoyance for your personnel and your clients, regardless of whether it pulls away from the door or jiggles when you attempt to open it.

When it comes to a doorknob that has fallen off, there’s good news: it’s not too difficult to repair.

Automobiles have made life a lot easier by reducing traveling time anywhere. However, it takes losing a simple key to lose all control of your car can become extremely annoying.

It is even more frustrating when you are pursuing a deadline. For example, imagine that it is time to pick your children up from school, and you lose your car keys. You are stuck in two problems simultaneously, and it’s challenging to sort both out at once.

For those of you looking for answers to this problem, we have several options you can choose from to solve it. For obvious reasons, we have included the benefits and drawbacks of each solution.

What To Do If Your Car Keys Are Stolen?

The moment you notice that your car keys have been stolen, you should call the police. Following that, you should get the car key replaced. The car’s engine unit should also be wiped to prevent the stolen key from being used again.

It is essential to take this step because the key contains a specific chip to the car’s engine. Wiping the memory will protect the car from being stolen.

1. Call An Auto Locksmith

These are the kind of locksmiths trained specially to deal with car keys and locks. An auto locksmith is your best option in such a situation. They carry blank keys and recording machines within their vehicles. Therefore, they’ll be able to help you design a new key straightaway.

Why Should I Opt For An Auto Locksmith?

Most auto locksmiths can arrive at where you are stuck and help you out straight away. However, it would be best if you kept some things in mind while calling a locksmith:

• Model and make of your vehicle
• Registration number
• The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) that you can find on your V5C document
• ID to confirm that it is your vehicle
• Your location

Auto locksmiths are also a great option because they carry key programming equipment. This makes it easier for them to make new keys without outsourcing the parts.

Plus, opting to get the key replaced by the car dealership means a wait of several days. An auto locksmith can do the same job within a few hours.

2. Check Your Insurance

In case of a stolen car key, you can check if your car insurance company policy covers such claims. Some companies do, and that too almost instantly.

A more detailed insurance policy usually covers the cost of reprogramming the engine control unit. Depending on the level of policy you have, a policy can cover

• Fare for a taxi to retrieve a new pair of keys
• A courtesy car that you can use until you get a new key made
• The company itself can send a locksmith your way

3. Call Your Breakdown Service

This option is usually the slowest one. Most breakdown services cannot determine when they will be able to reach you, primarily if you do not get classified as an emergency.

Plus, the type of vehicle and key you have is also a factor in case of breakdown services. They might not have the coding equipment needed for your car at all! What’s even more, some breakdown services outsource work to an auto locksmith. In such cases, it is better to cut out the middleman.

Most technicians at such services do not have the experience of an auto locksmith either, so you might as well call a trained professional.

4. Call Your Local Car Dealership

This is also a slow (and not-so-budget-friendly) option for a key replacement. Most car dealerships do not possess the adequate specialist equipment that auto locksmiths carry.

The car dealership will likely order a blank key fob, which, coupled with the delay needed to contract the required equipment, will take an insane amount of time.

Again, the dealership will likely hire an auto locksmith, so it is better to cut out the middleman and save money.

5. Utilizing A Local Garage

If you opt for a local garage, you will probably face similar problems as you do so with your local car dealership. Likely, they will not have the equipment needed to replace your key and reprogram your engine.

If you want to replace your car key quickly, you should not opt for this option.

Bottom Line

Losing your car key is an annoying feat any day of the year. If you are stuck in such a situation and are looking for a solution, you have come to the right place. This guide includes all the different options you can opt for in case of lost/stolen car keys. We hope you will find the answers to what you are looking for.

Having a problem with your car’s door locks is a typical occurrence. However, we’ll go through some of the most prevalent causes and what you can do to fix them. If you have time, check out our blog!

What’s Wrong With Your Power Door Lock?

A variety of factors may cause problems with a door lock. Let’s look at how the power door locking mechanism works first.

The key fob or automobile central locking remote transmits a signal to a receiver connected to the engine control unit when utilizing a power locking system. The solenoid on each door will then be activated to lock or unlock at the same time by a receiver.

Key Fob Problems

• Dead key fob battery

Replacement of key fob batteries sometimes is all that is needed to fix door lock problems. Coin-sized batteries are standard. However, it is essential to check your owner’s handbook for the correct dimensions.

• Key fob malfunction

Key fobs that don’t work are more difficult to fix than batteries that have run out. After changing the batteries, you may discover that the issue persists. For that, you’ll need to consult an expert. The expert will link the fob to a computer to ensure the correct signal response. You’ll have to get a new one if it breaks.

How Can I Fix This?

Although most key fobs come with a manual key, updating the batteries is always good. Keep a replacement battery on hand, and acquire yourself a manual spare key if your fob doesn’t come with a manual key (if possible).

• Weather Conditions

Car and residential doors might malfunction in frigid temperatures. This is caused by ice adhering to the outside and handle of your automobile door, making it difficult to open or shut. To help melt the ice surrounding your door or handle, pour warm but never boiling water around the frozen area. Keep any moist areas from the water you spilled dry, so you don’t have extra ice.

• Failure Of A Solenoid

A solenoid within your vehicle doors receives a signal from the buttons on your key fob. An electrical signal is translated into mechanical movement by a solenoid and utilized to move a steel rod through a keyhole. The inner door panel must be removed to replace a solenoid in a door that isn’t locking or unlocking.

Broken rod or connection:

There is always the potential that one of the rods mentioned above or (more probable) plastic connections has cracked, which is less likely than an electrical fault. The hardware network connects the door panel switches to the door handles and locks inside and outside.

Plastic may harden and crack with time, or muck may have leaked into the door from the window and gathered there due to the window being repeatedly opened and closed. As with the solenoid replacement, diagnosing and fixing this issue will need removing the inner door panel, but any problems will be evident to the unaided eye.

Door Lock Actuator Problems

Your car’s doors are locked and unlocked by the actuator. Locking and unlocking problems might occur if the actuator becomes damaged and cannot send signals to the vehicle. Consult a mechanic to see whether the actuator is functioning correctly.

• Defective Wiring

The door controls might fail if the wiring in the automobile door system is faulty. Faulty wiring is most often the result of insulation wear. Your car’s doors will open and close correctly if you take it to a repair shop for a new electrical system.

• Blown Fuse

If the power locking system is connected to the car’s electrical system, it will function properly. Short-circuit or electrical damage may be prevented by clicking a fuse or numerous fuses to the system. It’s good to check the fuse for the door locks before going to the dealer for power door inspections. When a fuse blows, you’ll hear a popping sound and smell burning.

A simple way to detect whether the little metal squiggle in the center of a fuse is connected or not is to check. After confirmation, replacing the fuse with a new one of the same amperage as the previous one is recommended.

When It Comes To Car Lockouts, Can An Auto Locksmith Help?

Yes, that’s a straightforward solution to your question. An Auto Locksmith can help you with any problems with your vehicle’s lock mechanism, including a damaged or broken lock, a jammed lock that won’t open, a stuck car key in the ignition, or even if you’ve misplaced your car keys. Auto Locksmiths can also help you if you have a lock-related issue with most other kinds of vehicles.

Bottom Line

Regardless of the cause, you’ll want to get your vehicle door lock difficulties fixed as soon as possible. You need to know what’s wrong before you can fix it. Even if you may know what to do in the event of a vehicle lock failure, we always recommend consulting an auto locksmith or an expert to get everything functioning again.

Yes, it is possible for a car locksmith or automotive locksmith to make a new key by coming to your car. However, it is pertinent to several factors, including being able to prove if you own the vehicle.

While you can go to a dealership to get a set of replacement keys, the fact is that it will require getting it towed, so that’s an extra cost associated with the process. Plus, most car dealerships charge you more than a professional automotive locksmith. So, the latter is a much more sensible choice.

Why Choose an Automotive Locksmith?

One of the reasons why you should hire an Automotive Locksmith as compared to going to a dealership is because dealerships use locksmiths too. The locksmith they outsource the process to are often 50% less expensive, and that allows them to add a 50% margin to the process.

So, you’ll end up paying more for the same job at a dealership. Furthermore, it is important to factor in the fact that you’ll be paying to get the vehicle towed to the dealership, which can cost up to $500!

You Don’t Need the Original Key

In some cases, you might need the original key, but that isn’t always the case. Most automotive locksmiths have the knowledge and equipment to fashion a key just based on what they are able to scan off the vehicle. That said, having the original key can speed up the process and even make it cheaper.

If the original key is not available, it requires that the automotive locksmith get the required keycode off the vehicle. Each key code is unique to the vehicle. Plus, if you have an entirely wireless FOB that does not require any metal contact with the vehicle, then getting the key code requires more work, and you’ll need to provide more information to prove your ownership of the car.

An Automotive Locksmith Can Help You at Any Time

Many established automotive locksmiths work 24/7. Unlike a dealership who may be available from 9 am to 5 pm, a locksmith can be hired at 3 am. Emergency services do not mean that a locksmith’s service is going to be poor or incomplete.

Established locksmiths travel with everything required to make a new key or to help people enter their vehicles if the key was left inside. However, as always, you’ll need to prove ownership of the car.

When you want to hire an Emergency Automotive Locksmith, you’ll need to call them up, give them your location, type of vehicle, VIN number, name and some other information. Once they have established that you own the vehicle and are genuinely in need of help, a team will be there to help you.

Conclusion

Ordering a new key made for your vehicle can cost anywhere from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. The more tech-reliant your car’s security is, the more expensive it is going to be. However, if you are not sure as to what has to be done, always call a professional automotive locksmith to help you out.

Yes, it is possible to make a car key based on the VIN number of the vehicle, but it depends! Our entire lives revolve around our cars, which we don’t realize until the car isn’t working or we can’t get into it. Many of us would not even be able to work without a vehicle. That is why losing your set of car keys can be so devastating. Not having an extra key can make things more stressful. However, if you ever lose the only set of car keys, don’t panic because a copy can still be made even if the original isn’t with you.

What Type of Replacement Key Do You Need?

The first step is to figure out what type of key you need to be made. If you own a pre-1981 vehicle, you’ll need a simple key that’s cut out of a key block. The later model cars have transponder keys. The keys are programmed to work with the car with safety chips embedded in them. So, even if you get the transponder key cut, it will not be able to turn the car on without it being paired to the car.

The third type of key is the smart car key. Think of them as a sort of remote, which isn’t like traditional keys because they look like a key fob but don’t require conventional means of ignition like turning the key.

The Original Key Isn’t Present

The option here will be to return to the car dealer to get a replacement. However, the key is going to be expensive, especially if the vehicle has to be towed. That said, a more affordable solution is to hire a professional automotive locksmith. Many established car deals have a Professional Automotive Locksmith working for them who handles the task of cutting and programming the key for 50% of what they charge you.

A seasoned locksmith will be able to make a key for you without needing the original. However, you’ll need to supply the locksmith with the required information.

What Does the Locksmith Need to Know?

The year, make, and model of the car will need to be provided to the Locksmith. Also, prove that you are the owner of the vehicle with your title and registration. The VIN will also need to be provided.

The VIN number is usually printed on the driver’s side of the car’s doorpost, or it will be stamped on to a metal plate located on the driver’s end of the dashboard. The key identification number can also be found in the vehicle’s user manual, but not having it isn’t going to be a problem. The objective is to try and prove to the locksmith that you own the vehicle.

Conclusion

While it is possible to make a car key via just the VIN number, it is essential to prove that you own the vehicle. An automotive locksmith is your best bet regardless of the type of car you own.  The second best is the car’s dealership.

Yes, you can rekey your own locks, and nothing is stopping you from doing it, except for the fact that all locks are different. Many people think that rekeying a lock is a simple matter of replacing the cylinder inside their locks. What they later find out is that getting to the cylinder and replacing it reliably isn’t all that simple.

Even seasoned locksmiths have practiced rekeying for years to ensure that they are proficient. That’s why even though you can rekey locks, you shouldn’t bet your home or businesses’ security on it.

How Does Rekeying Work?

Rekeying as the term implies is the process through which internal workings of a lock are changed so that it works differently but without compromising the security of a home or business. While it sounds simple on the surface, rekeying a lock isn’t a simple matter for anyone but a Professional Locksmith. In the simplest terms rekeying helps you keep the old lock, but the key you originally had will not work any longer. That’s why you need to have a grasp of the basic concepts before trying to rekey any lock.

Rekeying a lock requires gaining access to the lock’s cylinder. The lock needs to be removed and disassembled. Some people who have done it before might be able to pull it off. Still, since all locks are different, it is a risky proposition—not mentioning the fact that the incorrect replacement procedure can end up costing you in the way of the home or business’s security.

Why Do People Want to Rekey Locks?

One of the reasons why anyone would want to get their locks rekeyed is because it is one of the most cost-effective ways of ensuring that the locks will work with a new set of keys and the old one. For instance, a person who gives their home on rent may want to rekey the locks so that the previous owner can’t enter the apartment or home. It is cost-effective compared to perhaps buying and installing a fresh set of locks.

Rekeying can also be used for times when you want one key to open all locks. All locks can be installed with the same cylinder, which essentially will allow a single set of master keys to access everything. This type of setup is often employed in hotels and commercial establishments where there are many doors with locks.

The process of rekeying locks by a professional is also quicker. Most locksmiths depending on the lock, can rekey a standard lock within 30 minutes. The latest tools and experience helps to speed up the process. Locksmiths use tools like a catch tool, key decoder and a spanner for most jobs. If anything, it ensures the best possible outcome of the job.

The Cons of Rekeying

The biggest con is that a rekeyed lock isn’t any more structurally secure than the previous one. So, if the old lock often got stuck or could easily be pried off, rekeying it will not fix that problem. That’s why before rekeying, make sure that the locks are in good condition.

Rekeying Vs. Installing New Locks

Well, so we’ve already covered that rekeying a lock is cost-effective compared to buying and installing new locks. However, when should you decide on a new lock versus rekeying the existing one? One of the reasons why you’d want to install a new set of locks is to upgrade the existing security of your home or business. A better set of locks ups your security a great deal.

For instance, if you currently have a Grade 2 deadbolt installed, and you upgrade it to a Grade 1 by rekeying, the overall security isn’t boosted exponentially when compared to installing smart locks. So new locks could mean better security if you upgrade. That’s something not possible with merely rekeying them.

Conclusion

Attempting to rekey your locks can be risky. However, what you should do is hire a professional. A professional locksmith should be able to Rekey Your Locks while ensuring security. While it means paying for parts and labor, the result is a lock that’s more secure and reliable. When people do it themselves, not only is the process time consuming, but they could inevitably be compromising the security of their locks, which is never a good thing.