What Does an Automotive Locksmith Do?
If you experience a car or van lockout, losing or having damaged your keys, your initial action would typically be to contact a locksmith for an emergency automotive locksmith service. However, you may wonder what an auto locksmith is and what roles they perform.
An auto locksmith is a professional locksmith specializing in vehicle keys and locks. They are also known as car locksmiths or vehicle locksmiths. While their job is similar to that of a general locksmith, they work specifically with vehicles instead of doors in buildings. Usually, auto locksmiths begin their career as available locksmiths before branching into the automotive field.
What Does an Automotive Locksmith Do?
The services of an auto locksmith are similar to that of a general locksmith, although they primarily focus on reprogramming electronics for cars. Despite this, they are still highly skilled in using traditional keys and locks.
Remote key fobs, which initially referred to any small object on a critical chain, have had the standard Lock and Unlock buttons since the early 90s. While the fob may not always work, most vehicles can still be accessed using the actual key. Additionally, keys contain transponders.
The car’s onboard computer powers small radio circuits that act as an anti-theft device. If the radio code does not match the key, the engine will not start, and an immobilizer may activate. Although an effective security measure, malfunctions can cause inconvenience for the car owner.
Standard keys are becoming less common in modern cars and are mainly used only for ignition, and the rising popularity of keyless systems is making them obsolete. If a key fob or responder key malfunctions, only experts with advanced knowledge and technology can fix them. Therefore, modern auto locksmiths may need to reprogram these keys to repair them.
When Do You Need an Automotive Locksmith?
If you have trouble accessing or securing your car, such as locking it, you should contact an auto locksmith for assistance.
- If the lock is broken, it may be impossible to lock or unlock the car.
- If your key or key fob is broken, it will need repair or replacement.
- After experiencing a break-in/burglary
- If you have accidentally left your keys inside your vehicle and cannot access them.
- If you require an additional car key replacement for your vehicle.
Can I Contact an Automotive Locksmith Anytime?
Auto locksmiths provide services in various locations, including homes, car parks, and roadsides. They are available 24/7, as people can lose or break their keys anytime. Many auto locksmith services often offer emergency assistance.
Other Services Provided by Automotive Locksmiths
Auto locksmiths can help prevent lost or stolen keys and remotes from being used in your car. This can give you peace of mind if they fall into the wrong hands. Additionally, in rare cases, old car keys may snap off in the ignition at the base of the blade. If this happens and the car is still running, you’ll need help from a locksmith to turn off the engine.
If your engine doesn’t start, attempting to remove the key remnants yourself can lead to damage to the ignition cylinder and expensive repairs. It’s advisable to wait for an auto locksmith to remove the remnants and provide a replacement key fob safely, and this will ensure you’re back on the road in no time.
Please note that car locksmiths do not create car keys from scratch. Nonetheless, they can provide you with replacement keys and key fobs that are fully programmed in case you have misplaced, broken, or worn out your old keys.
