Automotive locksmith in Washington DC with helping to open locked car doors when the keys are lost or accidentally left inside. However, that is just one of the many valuable services they offer.
Car locks are intricate, sophisticated mechanisms that can be difficult to pick or jimmy. It takes a qualified locksmith with specialized tools to fix or repair them.
Keyless Entry Systems
Keyless entry systems allow access to a building without using a physical credential. To use a keyless system, you install hardware at every entryway you want to control access for and connect it to the security management platform. Once configured, each employee will receive a unique key code or card to enter.
The system can also be used in cars, and some key fobs have the ability to unlock all doors or the trunk at the push of a button. However, the car will only respond if it senses that the key fob is within range of the vehicle.
To prevent thieves from intercepting and replicating the unlocking sequence, modern keyless entry systems employ a rolling code. Using a pseudo-random number generator, a new 40-bit code is generated each time the key fob transmits a signal to the receiver. This ensures that even if your key fob gets stolen, it won’t be able to open the car.
Lost Car Keys
Getting locked out of your car is no fun at all, and can turn into a real nightmare if you panic. The first thing you need to do is calm down and check your car carefully. Try to retrace your steps, and keep an eye out for anything you may have dropped.
Depending on the kind of car you have, there are different ways to get a replacement key. Older cars will typically have traditional keys that can be used by a locksmith to make a spare. Newer vehicles will likely have a key fob, which is an electronic device that can unlock your doors and activate the alarm if it’s set off.
The good news is that a well-established locksmith or car key vendor should be able to develop a replacement key based on the VIN number of your vehicle. This will generally be quicker and cheaper than going to a dealership. However, you should always have your registration handy to ensure that the process is as smooth as possible.
Ignition Repair
A car’s ignition is a complex system of parts. Like other vehicle components, it can break due to normal wear and tear or after sustaining intentional/unintentional damage. In either case, a skilled locksmith can replace or repair the part and restore your car’s functionality.
If your car’s key won’t turn in the ignition, it is probably because the tumblers are wearing down and causing the lock to bind. The car may also not start because the ignition isn’t sending the electric signal to the battery and accessories.
A locksmith can often fix this problem without having to drill the lock, but if the cylinder is too damaged to be repaired, it will need to be replaced. In that case, a locksmith can help you choose the right replacement part for your car. They can also re-key the ignition so that only your car keys will work in it. This is important if you want to avoid having someone else steal your vehicle.
Car Key Replacement
Car key replacement is a frequent problem for many car owners. The first step is to find your car’s VIN number, which you should have somewhere on your vehicle – either in the driver’s doorpost, stamped on the dashboard, or listed on your title or registration. You then need to find someone that will help you replace your keys.
If you have a traditional, metal key, you can get it replaced for less than $10 at a hardware store. Automotive locksmiths will charge a bit more, but can come to you and make the key onsite.
If you have a more modern, laser-cut key or a transponder key fob, you will need to go to the dealership to have it replaced. Most of these have a built-in chip that needs to be programmed to work with the immobilizer on your vehicle. Some dealerships have the requisite machines, while others will charge for programming. It is much cheaper to have this done at a local auto locksmith.