Car locksmiths can open your locked car door or trunk, replace old keys, repair broken locks and even help you when you have lost your keys. They can also recode ignitions and alarm systems.
Auto locksmiths use tools like manual and pneumatic wedges, shaped rods, Slim Jim’s, and lockpicks to get into cars. Some of these tools are available for sale online with DIY instructions, but they can lead to real damage if used incorrectly.
Lockouts
There are many ways you can prevent a lockout situation from happening in the first place. For instance, a good practice is to keep your emergency locksmith’s number on speed dial, so you can call them right away and get the help you need.
Another helpful tip is to carry a spare key with you at all times. This can be done by keeping a spare in your wallet, purse, or even in the glove box. It can also be helpful to leave a spare with a trusted friend or family member in case you get locked out.
Lastly, it’s also important to regularly lubricate your car locks. This can prevent them from getting stuck or frozen during the cold winter months. This is especially beneficial for older cars that may have a more rusty lock or are made of more difficult materials to open. If you find yourself in a car lockout situation, always remember to stay calm and call for help. An Emergency Car Locksmith in Norfolk VA will be able to unlock your vehicle without damage and get you back on the road.
Lock Repairs
Whether you locked your keys in the car, have broken a lock or need to replace a lost key fob battery, locksmiths are able to help. Their skills and equipment allow them to access homes, apartments, cars and other vehicles without damaging the locks or doors. They can also repair or replace a wide range of other security devices.
One of the most common reasons for a lock to malfunction is a build-up of dirt inside the lock cylinder. Over time, dust and debris can cause pins to fuse and prevent the lock from functioning correctly. This problem is easily prevented by using a silicon-based lubricant, graphite spray or WD-40.
Unlike scammer locksmiths, who often charge you more than necessary, licensed professional locksmiths are dedicated to honest lock repair. They can repair a simple car lock for around $50 or less, depending on the damage. They can also make duplicate spare keys quickly and easily.
Replacement Keys
Emergency Car Locksmith in Norfolk VA replace a car key or home lock if you’ve lost yours. They can also make spare keys for your home or car so that you have them on hand in case you ever get locked out again.
The cost of a new key can vary, depending on the type of key you have and your location. The make and model of your vehicle will also affect the price, as will any special features you have. For example, if you have a smart key or a switchblade key fob that opens your trunk and starts the car, this will cost more to install than an old-fashioned key.
Before you can get a replacement key, your locksmith will need to know your vehicle identification number, or VIN. You should have this information handy, along with proof of ownership, such as your registration or title. If you don’t have this information, it may be necessary to have the vehicle towed to the dealership.
Reprogramming
A skilled car locksmith can reprogram your key fob or even make you a new one entirely. This is particularly important if your old one is lost, broken, or in some other way inaccessible.
It is not uncommon for people to get locked out of their cars, especially if they have no spare on hand. This can happen for a variety of reasons, from leaving them in the trunk after shopping to forgetting them at home while getting ready for work.
It is possible to open a locked car without the key using tools that are readily available to the public, including lockpicks, bump keys, Slim Jim’s, manual and pneumatic wedges, and shaped rods. However, these methods are best left to the professionals and can cause serious damage if not used properly. They also require more specialized training and practice than the basic lock duplication that most emergency locksmiths offer.