TROUBLE WITH LOCKS AND KEYS? THERE’S ALWAYS A SOLUTION!

We use keys and locks every day ~ automotive, residential, and commercial ~ and we hardly ever give it a second thought. We usually don’t think about it…until that one time…when something goes wrong. It’s always unnerving, but there’s no reason to waste your time going worrying and wondering how you can fix the situation. There are many ways to keep yourself secure, and to avoid most of the problems with locks and keys that could come up.

Take Extra Security Measures

 

Depending upon your living situation, if you’d like to feel more safe and secure at your place of residence or at your place of business, there are plenty of ways to give yourself peace of mind.

 

Install deadbolts. Any professional locksmith will tell you that deadbolts are your best bet. Make sure they’re properly installed, with at least a 1-inch throw. On the strike side, there should be a security plate with screws at least 3 inches long that goes all the way into the door’s wooden frame. If you have a window on or near your door, a thumb-turn deadbolt won’t do you much good, because an intruder can break the glass, put a hand in, and turn. To prevent this disaster, get a double-cylinder deadbolt, which requires a key on the inside. There are many different types of deadbolts. Consult with an expert locksmith to learn all about them so you can choose what’s right for you and your property.

 

Some additional ways to provide further safety and security:

 

• hire a local, dependable experienced locksmith who is background-checked, bonded, certified, insured, and licensed
• keypads
• use only reputable superior-quality brands, at least a grade 2
• magnetic locks
• safeguard your valuables and crucial documents stored in a safe
• combination locks
• keyless remotes
• alarm systems

 

 

Take Preventive Measures to Maintain Your Locks

 

If you do what’s necessary to keep your locks in good shape, you may rarely need a locksmith will be rare. Keep an eye out for:

 

• rust
• trouble turning the key in the lock
• wear and tear
• difficulty putting the key into the lock mechanism

 

Should any of these issues arise, it is probably best to change your locks. Old and faulty locks are vulnerable to burglary. Worn-out locks are surely easier to pick and break. Nevertheless, there are things you can do to extend the life of your locks:

 

• If your key doesn’t turn, it’s because sometimes the pins can get jammed up. You may not need a locksmith if you spray the lock mechanism with WD-40 or silicone-based spray. This strategy can effectively solve the problem, so it’s worth a try.
• Routine lubrication. Anytime you notice any grinding or excess friction, apply a silicone-based spray to the keyholes around your property. As a routine, do it two times a year anyway.
• Periodically, replace your keys. We subject our keys to so much abuse, throwing them around, dropping them, and keeping them who knows where. Besides, we hastily use them in lock mechanisms day in and day out. So if you ever notice that your keys are beginning to show wear and tear, then it’s time to make a new key. Don’t forget to toss out the old ones.

 

When is it Absolutely Time to Change Your Locks?

 

• Following a break-in. If you’ve been robbed, then immediately all your outdoor locks, which are now vulnerable to another burglary, must be replaced.
• New tenants or roommates. If you rent out space in your house or apartment, or have any other rental properties of any kind, then you must replace locks each time you change occupants. Even if the last tenants gave you back their keys, you cannot ever be totally sure that there aren’t any spare keys jangling around out there.
• A new home. If you’ve just moved into a new home, then of course you ought to change your locks as soon as possible. Just as with rental properties, you simply never know which previous residents may still be in possession of their old keys.
• Lost keys. If you really have utterly lost your keys, then change your locks right away. You don’t want any intruders at your home.

 

 

What Should You Do if Your Key Breaks Off or Gets Stuck in the Lock?

 

Don’t be impatient with your keys! If you rush, you may find yourself stalled in your tracks, because you’ve broken your key right off in the lock! So slow down, and always take that few extra seconds with your key. You’ll definitely save yourself a lot of grief.

 

If your key breaks off inside the lock mechanism before you close the door, you won’t be able to lock it, which will leave you vulnerable to burglary. If your key breaks off inside the lock mechanism after you shut the door, you won’t be able to open the door again. A broken key can also damage the lock.

 

• If part of your key is stuck inside the lock, and you can see a little bit slightly sticking out, you may be able to pull it out yourself. If there’s enough of the key visible, you might be capable of getting it out with your fingers or with needle-nose pliers. If there’s any damage, then you’ll need to hire a professional locksmith.
• If you can’t see any part of your key sticking out of the lock, it’s risky to try anything yourself, because you may damage the lock. It could still be worth a shot, though. Use a flathead screwdriver small enough to fit in the keyhole. See if you can pry the key inside just to the point where it comes out of the lock a tiny bit. At this point, you may be able to remove it with pliers or your fingers.

 

 

It’s inevitable: There will be some time when you won’t be able to avoid hiring a locksmith. But don’t despair. If you’re in Hampton, Virginia, and you need an experienced professional locksmith you can count on, you’re in luck. Locksmith Hampton is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to come to the rescue!

Article source here: TROUBLE WITH LOCKS AND KEYS? THERE’S ALWAYS A SOLUTION!

Locksmith Hampton – Symptoms of Car Ignition Issues

Over the years, there are numerous issues that can come up with any vehicle. Maybe you have had the ABS light on your dashboard illuminated for quite some time now. Or perhaps you hear a rattling noise when you drive. From fixing brakes to repairing damage to dashboards, there are so many things that your dealership will be able to help you out with (or of course, an experienced mechanic).

However, there are some issues that you can turn to someone else for. There are some issues that might arise with your vehicle that can actually be handled by an automotive locksmith. And the best part about this is that an experienced lock an

d security provider will typically offer lower rates for services than a car dealership or mechanic. Locksmith Hampton is a business based in Hampton, VA that offers advice to customers regarding vehicle problems which are solvable by a lock and security provider. Here, you will find symptoms of car ignition issues, and what you should do about them. Check it out!

1. The vehicle sometimes refuses to power on.

This is an indication of a potential problem with the ignition. Over time, when the ignition cylinder lock is used or turned over and over again, it starts to wear out. When this happens, it might not work as it is supposed to when the key is placed inside of it. If you find yourself having to jerk the key around to get it to work, you might actually be making the damage worse. You eventually might get to the point that the entire ignition cylinder needs to be replaced. It isn’t a bad idea to reach out to an expert before the damage gets worse.

1. There is difficulty inserting or removing the key.

If you have a hard time inserting or taking out your key, then you might have damage brewing. What causes problems? Basically, repetitive use. If you insert and remove and turn your key daily, the key and cylinder might eventually show signs of wear and tear. A worn cylinder can cause a key to get trapped inside. Eventually, what will happen is the key will no longer be able to fit inside of the ignition cylinder. Again, it is not a bad idea to reach out to a professional before the problem gets worse over time.

1. No start condition.

Note that your ignition lock cylinder is connected with an electronic ignition switch. This is how the vehicle is turned on. The vehicle might not start if there is damage to the ignition lock cylinder, which can wear out over time. However, it is important to note that the ignition cylinder might not be the problem when it comes to a no start condition, so it is a wise idea to have the vehicle inspected by a professional to determine exactly what the cause for concern is. Of course, you should make sure that a dead or weak battery isn’t the issue. But if you recently had your battery checked and know that the issue is something else, consider that it might be the ignition cylinder.

 

These are just some of the symptoms of a failing ignition cylinder. While you can try wiggling your key around if it is stuck to loosen it, or moving the steering wheel from side to side when the key is stuck, this will really only be useful if the steering wheel was simply situated incorrectly. You can also check to make sure that the problem isn’t a dead battery. Did your “check engine” light illuminate on the dashboard shortly before you found your key to be trapped in the ignition cylinder? Are you unable to turn the car on now? A dead battery might be the problem, rather than the ignition cylinder. If you are able to simply troubleshoot the problem on your own, then you might save yourself a great deal of money by avoiding having to bring the vehicle in to an expert or having the vehicle towed to your dealership.

Be sure to make note of any issues you might be experiencing with your vehicle, and if it is related to the ignition cylinder, consider your options. Broken key extraction is a service that locksmiths offer. They can carefully take your key out of the ignition cylinder if it has broken off inside of it. Ignition cylinder replacement is another service that is provided by professional automotive lock and security providers. They can identify that the source of the problem is definitely the ignition cylinder and replace it with parts that work so you can continue to drive your vehicle with safety.

Call a locksmith in Hampton, Virginia if you need automotive solutions, or in the location you are currently in. Save their phone number so you are able to access them whenever a problematic situation comes up. You will be able to, at the very least, save yourself the time of having to sit around doing Google searches. Make sure that you always have your vehicle checked out if you are unsure of what is wrong. It is very important to keep your car in the best possible condition so that it is safe for you to drive. Get on the road to success by paying attention to the details! Your ignition cylinder is something that shouldn’t be ignored. Repairs, diagnostics and maintenance should be performed on an as-needed basis to prevent serious issues from occurring. Whether you are having difficulty removing your key from your car’s ignition, or notice that at times, your car just will not turn on, be sure to have a professional do an inspection. You don’t want to end up stuck somewhere because of an issue that was totally preventable or reversible.

Keep your car in tip top shape, and keep an eye on your ignition cylinder so that everything works for many years to come!

Article source here: Locksmith Hampton – Symptoms of Car Ignition Issues

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WHEN TO CHANGE OR REPLACE LOCKS

You often hear the phrase “change the locks” yet what does that really mean? What’s involved in a lock change and why would you want to have different locks anyway? This post will explore the many reasons for altering your locks at home, on your car or at your business so that you can enjoy greater lock protection and peace of mind.

YOUR HOME LOCKS

Whether you are buying your home or renting it, your keys have changed hands several times. Think about it; just who has had a copy or copies of your door key? A partial list will include property managers, office staff, realtors, builders, contractors, delivery persons, family members, previous residents, babysitters, earlier tenants, and many more. Would you be comfortable with that many people knowing your bank password? Of course not! It’s almost the same with your keys! Just because people are not supposed to enter your home without permission doesn’t mean that they won’t.

REPLACING YOUR BUSINESS LOCKS

Why would you want your Hampton, VA commercial locks changed? There are many good reasons. You may have just moved into this location and want to start off “fresh” with only the keys that you have distributed to your staff in circulation. You may have been burglarized and suffered lock damage in the process. Your new commercial locks are now replacing the older damaged ones. Maybe the older store or office locks were aged or worn and this new set offers greater security and stability. Your new locks may also be an upgrade as in the case of replacing with high security locks or bump proof ones.

AUTOMOTIVE LOCK REPLACEMENT

New locks on cars, trucks or service vehicles can be due to change of ownership, an upgrade or due previous lock damage. Auto locks can break down due to use or wear. Everything from trunk locks to ignition switches can become less effective after long use. Often crime can lead to lock change or replacement as vandalism, break-in attempts and auto theft can wreak havoc on locks and locking mechanisms of all makes and models.

WHAT’S INVOLVED IN A LOCK CHANGE OR REPLACEMENT?

Replacing a lock with another one is just that. Your old lock may be of lesser quality and it may be time for an upgrade. Here at LocksmithHampton we often replace locks with better ones or more durable models. Take for instance deadbolts. Many homeowners want to add a deadbolt to their front doors and often we get requests for double cylinder deadbolts or for door locks that are pick proof and bump proof. It’s a little known fact that home builders will almost always install cheaper locks on front and back doors. Their goal is NOT to keep you safe; it is to sell a home with a lock on it. While many luxury or custom home builders will offer upgraded locks at a steeper price, most new homes for several decades now come with cheaper quality, basic door locks that are very easy to bypass.

SHOULD YOU REKEY?

A full lock replacement involves changing the whole lock mechanism. A rekey keeps your original lock in place and only the interior pins are altered. This step now requires new keys as the older ones no longer will work. Rekeys can be a great idea when you want a fast solution to access problems and don’t want to spend a lot of money. Locksmith Hampton offers this service to our local customers and we do it often so feel free to call us for additional details and for some no cost price quotes. If you already have a Hampton, VA locksmith that you like and work with be sure to call them and get additional details on both lock replacement and their rekey service.

TIMES WHEN YOU SHOULD REPLACE OR REKEY YOUR LOCKS

Here are a few examples for you to consider; there are of course, many more reasons to have your locks replaced or changed out but these are some of the most common ones:

Move outs – did the kids grow up and move out? Did you just get a divorce or did the relationship end? Did you have a long term guest or roommate that had his/her own key and now they are gone?

Were you away? – did you leave on a trip or for work and give a copy of the key to the neighbors so that they could check on the house? You may trust your friends or family but who else had access to your house key? Hmmm….

Lost keys – did you lose your keys? Whether you found them later or not doesn’t matter! It is still smart thinking to have your locks changed just in case. Even if your keys were returned to you by a co-worker or good Samaritan, you can’ be certain that copies weren’t made first!

Old locks – as stated earlier, older locks work less and less effectively as time goes by. Maybe they still work now but they won’t forever, so strongly consider replacing them with newer better ones.

Child access – do you give your kids copies of your house key? Maybe they let themselves in after school and get home before you get off of work. You trust your kids but are you really sure that they haven’t lent the key to a friend who copied it? Or, has the child’s key already been lost and he/she is using a copy?

Crime attempt – have you recently had a break-in or attempted break-in? Even if they didn’t damage your locks you should consider replacing them with newer, stronger ones. Locksmith Hampton offers several models of pick-proof and bump proof home and business locks that are both affordable and convenient to install.

Key lending – have you lent you key out to a service man or repair technician. Just because they work for a reputable company doesn’t mean that it’s safe to rely on their honesty. Whether you get your key back or don’t; it’s smart thinking to rekey your locks as soon as possible.

Article source here: WHEN TO CHANGE OR REPLACE LOCKS

SOLVING TRANSPONDER KEY PROBLEMS

Transponder keys, also known as transponder “chip” keys, are ignition keys for your vehicle that make getting in and out of your car very easy because you can unlock your car doors without physically sticking the key in the lock; you can activate and deactivate your car alarm; you can open your trunk remotely; and, with some, you can even start your car remotely. The way a transponder key works is that the transponder chip inside sends out a unique signal to your car’s computer, a particular frequency aligned to your automobile only. As the signal is received, the mechanical part of the key releases your steering lock so you can activate the ignition and drive.
Nowadays, transponder keys are standard, and viewed as superior to regular keys. They make automobiles much more difficult to steal. Even though a transponder key is more expensive, it’s definitely worth the peace of mind it affords you. But of course, problems can arise with transponder keys.
Has your transponder key been stolen?
You should have been given an extra copy of your transponder key when you first acquired your vehicle. If you gave that car key to a family member, then you ought to still have an additional copy made to keep somewhere else in a safe place. Remember, because your transponder key is associated only to your vehicle, a would-be car thief who has your key can effortlessly take your automobile.
Of course, it’s no big deal to make a mechanical key; but to get a transponder key made, replaced, or reprogrammed, you will have to locate an automotive locksmith specialist, or go back to your original car dealer. A reputable locksmith professional will cost less than the dealership, and will also be happy to advise you on other automotive security issues.
Have you lost your transponder key?
Losing your car key is a lot more complicated than it used to be. With a traditional key, you could easily have a spare key made for a few bucks at any local hardware store or locksmith, or even back at the dealership. But a transponder key is a different story. If you really can’t find your transponder key, depending on the automaker and the intricacy of the key’s design, the replacement of your electronic fob isn’t cheap. A few car dealerships will program your fob properly for free, but most will charge a lot.
For some vehicles, the transponder key is an all-in-one unit with the fob. Also known as a laser-cut key, the shank is a bit thicker, with fewer carved-out grooves. Laser-cut keys are also sometimes referred to as “sidewinder” keys, because of the winding cut feature on the shank. Most likely, a laser-cut key’s built-in chip will have to be programmed by the dealership.
A switchblade key is another type of transponder key with a shank, but it folds into the fob. You can pop it out by pressing a button. A switchblade key has either a laser cut or a basic cut. One advantage to this type of key is that its components can be bought separately. But if you’ve lost your key entirely, you’ll have to get both parts programmed.
What about a smart key? This isn’t really a key in the usual sense. It’s just a fob. You either insert it into the dash, or you can keep in your pocket or purse. When you sit in the driver’s seat, you can start and stop the car just by pressing a button. A smart key is exceptionally secure because of its rolling security codes. Continually randomizing the correct code, it prevents a would-be professional car thief from hacking it with a code grabber. If you lose your smart key, your dealership can replace it.
Has your transponder key stopped working right?

• One typical reason your transponder key stops functioning is that there is a manufacturer defect which has been there all along. If your vehicle is still under warranty, you’ll be able to correct the problem at no cost. If it’s not under warranty any longer, then an automotive locksmith specialist will definitely be able to help you.
• Another possibility is that your transponder key is no longer communicating correctly with your car’s computer. The computer chip has somehow lost its programming. In this case, you can get it reprogrammed, or you can get an entirely new transponder key, with new programming. Whatever you decide to do, an automotive locksmith technician, or your dealership, can expertly handle it.
• There may be a foreign object lodged in your ignition. Instead of attempting to pull it out yourself, which would likely cause additional damage to the ignition, it’s best to ask a professional automotive locksmith technician. An experienced locksmith can usually extract a foreign object from the ignition without having to replace the entire switch.

DIY
If you have to reprogram your transponder key, the good news is ~ at least with some cars ~ you will be able to program it yourself. So, check your owner’s manual. You may be in luck.
The following method works on a good number of American-made vehicles. But before you shell out any money, check with your dealership or with a local automotive locksmith to determine if this procedure will work on yours:

1. Insert one of your two working keys, and turn the ignition to the “on” position for a good three seconds (without starting the car).
2. Do the same with your second key.
3. Insert the new third key, and again turn it to the “on” position for another few seconds. This will program the extra key successfully.

Another measure you can take, which will allow access to your car at least, is that you could order only the basic key without the transmitter. This key will do everything else except start the car. This is handy if you ever lock your car keys inside your vehicle.
If it’s time for programming or reprogramming your transponder key, if you live in Hampton, Virginia, then it’s a good idea to bring all your questions and concerns to a mobile automotive locksmith, such as the locksmith specialists on staff at Locksmith Hampton. Oftentimes, such a trustworthy professional will be glad to assist you, and at a much lower cost than the dealership would charge you.



Article source here: SOLVING TRANSPONDER KEY PROBLEMS