Automotive News

An Introduction to Car Key Programming, Replacements, Key Cutting and Lock Repairs

Finding that you've lost your car keys or been locked out of your vehicle can be incredibly stressful, especially when you're in a hurry. That said, a surprising proportion of drivers are unfamiliar with auto locksmiths, often because they've never used their services before or only know of general locksmiths who assist with locks on doors and windows. The contrast is that an auto locksmith specialises in vehicle security, whether providing replacement sets of keys and fobs, fixing or replacing stuck or damaged locks, or dealing with ignition issues that are stopping a driver from going about their day. Eydens Auto Locksmiths , a highly experienced company based in the West Midlands, has shared some insights into the most in-demand services they provide and explained how emergency call-out assistance works. The Importance of Experienced Auto Locksmiths for Drivers and Businesses There are over 36 million licensed cars in the UK, with an additional 10 million or so commercial vehicles like buses, trucks, lorries and vans. Although losing your keys or discovering a damaged lock isn't likely to be a regular occurrence, an estimated two million of those drivers have at some point lost their keys permanently. Auto locksmiths also assist drivers who have been victims of bag snatching or key cloning, an unfortunately prevalent type of crime that has increased with the introduction of keyless entry fobs. Reports indicate that key hacking is now involved in 60% of car thefts. In any of these scenarios, drivers need to replace their keys, regain entry to their vehicles, and make up for lost time as quickly as possible – which is where an auto locksmith is the fastest, safest and most reliable solution. We recommend looking for credentials that verify an auto locksmith is a genuine professional with the necessary expertise. This is especially important since there are ongoing issues with rogue traders and unqualified businesses advertising through social media. The best advice is to check for membership with the Auto Locksmiths Association (ALA). Knowledgeable locksmiths can travel to your location, suggest the most appropriate options, such as a repair or replacement, and ensure your keys, fobs, and vehicle are in trusted hands until you're back on the road. Services Available From Professional Auto Locksmiths Vehicle key cutting normally involves key fob programming, because the majority of modern cars and vans are fitted with electronic doors and sensors, but this is only one aspect of the services auto locksmiths offer. Mobile car key cutting is, of course, necessary if you need immediate help, but locksmiths can also change your car locks entirely, where required. For example, if you've lost your keys and have no idea where they might be or who might have access to them, or if a set of keys has been stolen, it is far better to change the locks to ensure that your vehicle isn't vulnerable. Car key and lock repairs are also important services. Repairs can be a more affordable solution if keys have become damaged or broken, whether a fob has been crushed or cracked, a physical key bent, or you’ve noticed locks becoming harder to turn due to wear and tear. When keys start to stick, this might initially be a minor nuisance. However, leaving the lock or key to continue wearing down will only mean the issue worsens and could ultimately lead to an emergency when you reach a point where you can't open the car door or start the engine at all. Alongside these services, auto locksmiths can help you regain access to your car if you're locked out or have accidentally locked your keys inside. Trying to force a lock or smash a window might seem the quickest route, but it almost always results in greater expense repairing the damage, without a guarantee you’ll be able to start the car if the issue relates to the fob itself. How Drivers and Van Owners Can Prevent Vehicle Crime By Consulting an Auto Locksmith Many people only come into contact with auto locksmiths when they're faced with a crisis, but in reality, there are numerous services that could be worth considering, not least having a spare set of keys produced and programmed, which could save considerable headaches if you do lose your keys in the future. It’s also strongly advisable to think about vehicle security if you drive a high-end car that is susceptible to theft, a marque that is among the most stolen, or a company or trade van that poses risks of break-ins and tampering to try to access tools or equipment stored in the vehicle overnight. Pre-emptive measures can be the difference between needing to call an emergency auto locksmith after an incident and having the peace of mind that your vehicle is secure and fitted with next-gen technology, such as an in-built immobiliser that significantly reduces any likelihood of a successful theft. Options include vehicle trackers, ghost immobilisers – which are fitted inside the vehicle's wiring and cannot be removed or tampered with - and van-specific security safeguards, such as commercial-grade deadlocks, solid shields to prevent bodywork from being cut, and latch protection plates that mean handles can’t be spiked or forced. When to Contact an Auto Locksmith in Your Area If you have any concerns about not having backup keys or the potential for your vehicle to be broken into or stolen, it’s never a bad idea to call a local auto locksmith, following the guidance above about checking their credentials rather than relying on directories or social media listings. Established auto locksmiths will be happy to share advice or recommendations, offer quotes or estimates to ensure you know what to expect, or offer an ETA if you are in an emergency and need their assistance. The ALA website is a valuable resource, where you can search for a local auto locksmith by location. You can also store their contact details, so if you're ever in need of urgent help, you'll have this information readily available. Read more about Eydens Auto Locksmiths and Vehicle Security - Coventry Auto Locksmith, Eydens, Comments on Factors Driving Higher Replacement Key Charges From Showrooms