There are several reasons why you might need to call a locksmith. You might have locked yourself out of your car. In a less immediate situation, you might need to replace your locks or your keys in order to increase the security of your home. Or, maybe you lost your keys, or your locks are broken. No matter what reason you’re shopping for a locksmith, your concerns should be the same:
- Reliability
- Cost
- Convenience
When choosing a locksmith, it’s valuable to consider your choice with some care. It might save you money in the long run. At the same time, it will definitely give you greater peace of mind to know you’ve picked a locksmith with a proven background of good service. Here are some locksmith tips to help you get started.
Locksmith Tips:
When To Call A Locksmith
If your keys are locked in your car, there are a few tricks you can try before calling a locksmith. Everyone should know what to do if locked out of their car because contrary to popular belief there are a few ways to get keys out of locked cars. (ConsumerReports) They’re difficult, and some of them don’t work very well. If they don’t work for you, then you probably need to call a locksmith.
Before you do that, here are a few things you can try. (McCarthy)
- If your window is open a crack, and you have manual locks, you might be able to reach through the locked door and unlock it with a looped piece of string.
- The clothes hanger trick you’ve seen in the movies isn’t just a piece of movie magic. It is really possible to use a clothes hanger to reach into your car’s door and unlock your locks from the inside. Possible, but it’s tough!
- There are a couple of tools that locksmiths use to get into locked cars. If you have access to them, you can use them too. There’s something called an inflatable pump wedge. When deflated, these tools fit in the gap of a closed door. Then, when they’re inflated, they push open just enough of a gap to allow someone to reach in and unlock the door.
Those are just a few ways to get into a locked car. None of them are surefire, and all of them can be frustrating. It might prove much more effective to call a locksmith. Most locksmiths have mobile technicians who can come to your car and get you into them safely.
If you do determine that the best course of action is to call a locksmith, then make your choice wisely. The quality of the locks on your car and home can be a significant factor in your security and peace of mind.
You may also need to call a locksmith if you need your locks changed or if you need your keys replaced. Modern car keys typically require programming and require replacement by either a dealership or a locksmith. However, it’s important to note that a locksmith is typically less expensive than a dealer.
Additionally, if you’d like to change your home’s locks or upgrade to a keyless door lock, calling a locksmith is a great way to get the job done.
How to Choose a Locksmith
There are a few considerations to bear in mind when considering a locksmith. It isn’t always smart to pick the closest locksmith, necessarily. At the same time, you want someone who’s convenient. You won’t necessarily want to pick the cheapest option, because you often get what you pay for. But you definitely want to work with someone who’s going to give you a good deal.
These are your two to three most significant personal investments–your home, your car, and your business. You want the confidence that comes from working with the right person for the job.
Here are a few thoughts to keep in mind when you are shopping for locksmiths: (GVLock)
- Figure out which locksmithing services you need. Do you need to rekey a car? Or replace the lock on your office space? Or do you need to install a new security system in your home? Different locksmiths offer different menus of service. Have a clear understanding of the needs of the job. That way you can ensure that the locksmith you approach offers that service.
- When you have that information, you can start searching for locksmiths. (For example, “locksmith change car locks.”)
- Check your car and homeowners insurance. Insurance sometimes covers the repair and replacement of locks and keys. Working with locksmiths covered by your insurance will reduce costs to you.
- Ask for job estimates. Costs may vary slightly once the locksmith sees what’s needed. However, there are unreputable locksmiths who will give a very low quote and then upon arrival increase the cost exponentially. So, be sure to check reviews to make sure that the locksmith will provide an accurate estimate.
- Request credentials. There are bodies that certify locksmiths. Any reputable locksmith will be happy to show you their credentials.
- Lastly, always review documentation. Make sure that the locksmith has performed all the work agreed upon. Also, make sure they haven’t tried to do more work and charge you for services you didn’t request. Don’t pay for anything you didn’t want–and make sure the job got done.
This is the security of your car, house, or business we’re talking about. We want you to have peace of mind about them, just as much as you do. Shopping for a locksmith isn’t like shopping for a house. It’s less complicated than that. That said, it is worth having long-term peace of mind when you put some thought into your choice of approaching a locksmith.
Crown Locksmith is an Atlanta locksmith with a strong local reputation and 4.8 star Google rating. Contact us if you’re shopping around for an affordable locksmith with demonstrated expertise in all areas of installing or fixing home, car, and business locks. We’re happy to answer any questions our mobile technician can help you get into your car right away!
