Advice from a professional
Does your key look like either of these? If so, then you are in danger of permanently damaging your door lock and ignition, causing them to eventually fail entirely and need to be replaced. Replacing the ignition can on some cars be as much as a thousand dollars! Here’s what you need to know. Take … Read more
If the keypad on your gun safe looks like the one in the picture, please call me or any other certified locksmith or safe technician to discuss options. The main characteristic is the 3 lights in a vertical row on the left side. There are 2 kinds of keypads that look like this. The keypad … Read more
YES. Well, I can’t speak for all locksmiths, but I can recover a lost or unknown keyless entry code on about 90% of the vehicles I have attempted. When you buy a used vehicle that has a keyless entry keypad, there is a high probability that the dealer doesn’t know the keypad code. This happens … Read more
Pro Tip: You are NOT stuck with the key type and design provided by the vehicle manufacturer. If you drive a GM, Chevy or Ford vehicle with a “flip key”, your key blade WILL break sooner or later. This can happen on any flip key. It’s the way they are made. Some experts say that … Read more
We’ve all been there, fighting with a stubborn key ring trying to attach a new key or key fob. The new electronic keys are the worst because the plastic is so thick. But there is an easy solution! Formerly known as a staple remover (who uses staples anymore?), this new double jawed, sharp toothed, key … Read more
Question: Can I program my my own key to my Chevrolet, Pontiac, Buick, Oldsmobile, Cadillac or any other General Motors car? Answer: YES, programming a GM key is relatively easy and does not require any expensive special equipment. This procedure works on GM cars that use a concealed chip in the key. It does not … Read more
This post is primarily for business owners. Did you know there are key systems available where only you, the owner, can get duplicate keys made? It’s true. When an employee leaves and returns their key, you don’t have to change the locks on suspicion of possible duplicate keys. Each key has a unique serial number … Read more
Consider this a public service announcement. The Kwikset smartkey lock has some good features. Homeowners can rekey the lock themselves (if you carefully follow the instructions), and the lock is pick resistant and bump resistant. It has a higher level of security than its older brother, the pin tumbler lock. However, these features come with … Read more
Pro Tip:If your car has the “push to start” ignition, get familiar with 2 things about it before you get stranded. 1. How to remove the emergency metal key from the key fob housing and how to use it to unlock the car door (on some cars the key hole is hidden) 2. How to … Read more