Perhaps it is the panic of the Christmas holidays, but this time of year we seem to be getting more calls about lost car keys! Many people are shocked when they find out the cost from the average main dealer upwards of £200 to replace their keys. A fair amount of this is due to the advancements in technology, but as you can imagine, there is quite a lot of margin in there too!
Another issue comes with using a dealer; it can take 3-5 days for some dealers to get the car keys in stock - not what you want to hear when you are reliant on your car or van!
So bear in mind their is another answer - using a dedicated auto locksmith means you get a quicker response and save money too; handy around Christmas time! We can simply come round to your home and cut a new key or program a new transponder whilst you wait.
On that note, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all at Your Auto Locksmith!
Thursday 15 December 2011
A Winter's Tale - Frozen Ford Car Locks
So winter has really hit us now here in the London area, with biting winds and frozen car windscreens!
Another issue many car owners get is frozen locks. One Ford owner that gave us a call had the problem and we gave them the same advice as we would anyone: first try spraying the lock with WD40 (and give it a minute to settle). If that doesn't work, some hot water may do the job. If not, then we're happy to come and rescue you! Whether it is a Ford or Ferrari, just get in touch by visiting London's top auto locksmiths - us! :c)
Another issue many car owners get is frozen locks. One Ford owner that gave us a call had the problem and we gave them the same advice as we would anyone: first try spraying the lock with WD40 (and give it a minute to settle). If that doesn't work, some hot water may do the job. If not, then we're happy to come and rescue you! Whether it is a Ford or Ferrari, just get in touch by visiting London's top auto locksmiths - us! :c)
Monday 1 August 2011
My Top Car Security Tips
This may be too late for some, but preventative action is always better than reactive when it comes to car security!
As i often say to customers, if you don't have a spare car key, that is the first thing you should have. Not only does this allow you access to your car if you've lost your car keys, or its been stolen, its also beneficial for resale purposes. After all, would you feel comfortable buying a car when you know a spare car key is floating around 'somewhere'?!
Scaring off would-be thieves can be done with a few visual aids, namely car alarm stickers as well as those visible blinking LEDs so Mr Thief will see that your alarm/immobiliser is armed.
If you need to buy an alarm, then go for the best one you can afford. Features would include ignition disconnection (preventing the car from running), remote fobs which change the security codes and. motion sensors (including ones that detect broken glass). The industry regulator for alarm systems is Thatcham, so more advice can be found on their website.
If you are unlucky enough to have lost your car key, or need a replacement for any other reason, get in touch with us at the Car Locksmiths for help!
As i often say to customers, if you don't have a spare car key, that is the first thing you should have. Not only does this allow you access to your car if you've lost your car keys, or its been stolen, its also beneficial for resale purposes. After all, would you feel comfortable buying a car when you know a spare car key is floating around 'somewhere'?!
Scaring off would-be thieves can be done with a few visual aids, namely car alarm stickers as well as those visible blinking LEDs so Mr Thief will see that your alarm/immobiliser is armed.
If you need to buy an alarm, then go for the best one you can afford. Features would include ignition disconnection (preventing the car from running), remote fobs which change the security codes and. motion sensors (including ones that detect broken glass). The industry regulator for alarm systems is Thatcham, so more advice can be found on their website.
If you are unlucky enough to have lost your car key, or need a replacement for any other reason, get in touch with us at the Car Locksmiths for help!
Monday 25 July 2011
Rip Off Car Dealers and Replacement Car keys
I saw a post on the popular Money Saving Expert forum with a member complaining about a Fiat Coupe car key costing £190 recently. Indeed, it is a surprise for many when visiting an 'official' dealership to seek help. Of course, this is the seemingly obvious place to start, but not if you want to get a cheap resolution to your problem!
The reality is that car dealers have massive overheads. You only need to walk into their purpose built showrooms surrounded by 100+ cars to see that. Labour bills are also high, incredibly the average in London is over £115 an hour according to WhatCar? magazine.
So what can you do? Surprisngly few know that auto locksmiths (or car locksmith, whatever you prefer!) actually exist. Specialists in their chosen field, companies like The Car Key Locksmiths operate a mobile service for ultimate convenience. This mobile service also means low overheads, so the savings are passed on to you, the customer.
So before you pick up the phone to your greedy dealer, who is unlikely to reward your years of loyalty, support the local business community and phone up a car locksmith in your area.
Based around London, Kent, Essex or Surrey? Here at The Car Key Locksmiths, we provide replacement car keys and other car locksmith services. Just get in touch with us for a no-obligation informal recommendation :)
The reality is that car dealers have massive overheads. You only need to walk into their purpose built showrooms surrounded by 100+ cars to see that. Labour bills are also high, incredibly the average in London is over £115 an hour according to WhatCar? magazine.
So what can you do? Surprisngly few know that auto locksmiths (or car locksmith, whatever you prefer!) actually exist. Specialists in their chosen field, companies like The Car Key Locksmiths operate a mobile service for ultimate convenience. This mobile service also means low overheads, so the savings are passed on to you, the customer.
So before you pick up the phone to your greedy dealer, who is unlikely to reward your years of loyalty, support the local business community and phone up a car locksmith in your area.
Based around London, Kent, Essex or Surrey? Here at The Car Key Locksmiths, we provide replacement car keys and other car locksmith services. Just get in touch with us for a no-obligation informal recommendation :)
Launch of 24hr car locksmith service
Being a car locksmith, most clients are in a distressed state. Lets face it, nobody loses their car key by accident! Whether they have indeed lost their car key, or had it stolen, or for whatever reason can't get in their car, it is a major inconvienience. These days, losing your car is like losing a limb; if you can't use it, then you need to get it fixed, immediately!
So this is why, at the Car Key Locksmith, we're now running a 24 Hour Emergency Car Locksmith Service. And yes, this is a 365 days a year service too, so no matter when you have a problem with your car, we can be over to yours quickly to fix it for you.
If you're in dire straits and live in London, Kent, Surrey and surrounding areas, just get in touch with our (new!) 24HR mobile locksmiths on 0794 670 5894 or visit www.carkeyslocksmith.co.uk.
So this is why, at the Car Key Locksmith, we're now running a 24 Hour Emergency Car Locksmith Service. And yes, this is a 365 days a year service too, so no matter when you have a problem with your car, we can be over to yours quickly to fix it for you.
If you're in dire straits and live in London, Kent, Surrey and surrounding areas, just get in touch with our (new!) 24HR mobile locksmiths on 0794 670 5894 or visit www.carkeyslocksmith.co.uk.
Friday 8 July 2011
Think you know how cars are stolen? Think again!
Traditionally, people think that cars and vans are stolen at the dead of night, down a dodgy road by breaking the locks and forcing the ignition. However, although this used to be the case, before vehicle security improved drastically, nowadays that couldn't be further from the truth!
Since the advent of immobilsers being installed as an industry norm, now the car theft game has changed completely! Instead, 37% of car thefts are made through bulgalry (i.e. taking keys having broken into the home). And, worryingly, a lot of thefts are in the day time, in full view. In comparison, forced entry is only 14%. Surprised? Most people are!
Other interesting figures from the survey shows that 18% of people left the car keys in the car (oops!) and 12% of cars were stolen using the spare car keys.
Clearly then, there are security lessons to be learnt here! First of all, make sure your keys are in a safe place, not left near the door or on the stairs. It is probably a good idea to leave your spare car key with a TRUSTED family member, so it is in a different location.
Ultimately though, if you are burgaled for car keys, don't put up a fight. Your life is worth more than a car, which after all, is insured. Instead, take action to make your car/home less of a target. Install an alarm, security posts, a gate etc. which will deter thieves. It won't stop vehicle crime, but at least it won't be you!
Stay safe out there!
Since the advent of immobilsers being installed as an industry norm, now the car theft game has changed completely! Instead, 37% of car thefts are made through bulgalry (i.e. taking keys having broken into the home). And, worryingly, a lot of thefts are in the day time, in full view. In comparison, forced entry is only 14%. Surprised? Most people are!
Other interesting figures from the survey shows that 18% of people left the car keys in the car (oops!) and 12% of cars were stolen using the spare car keys.
Clearly then, there are security lessons to be learnt here! First of all, make sure your keys are in a safe place, not left near the door or on the stairs. It is probably a good idea to leave your spare car key with a TRUSTED family member, so it is in a different location.
Ultimately though, if you are burgaled for car keys, don't put up a fight. Your life is worth more than a car, which after all, is insured. Instead, take action to make your car/home less of a target. Install an alarm, security posts, a gate etc. which will deter thieves. It won't stop vehicle crime, but at least it won't be you!
Stay safe out there!
Friday 17 June 2011
Mercedes Sprinter Start Error
Do you you own a Mercedes Sprinter van and have that unsettling 'Start Error' message come up on the dash? Not good news when, for many, your Sprinter not only gets to your work, its your office too! As you may have discovered by now though, you're not alone. The Mercedes Sprinter Start Error is actually common problem with these otherwise reliable workhorses.
What causes the Start Error?
Well, according to our Mercedes Sprinter Start Error expert friends over at The Car Locksmiths, there are a few reasons for this happening. Recently had to mess around in the engine bay? Had to jump start your Sprinter after a flat battery? They are the most common culprits, but speaking about the Start Error issue Autolocks, they've even heard the message has shown up just by driving normally, with a van otherwise working fine.
How can you fix the Start Error?
Most people would normally instantly think to go back to Mercedes, and if your Sprinter is under warranty, that is probably the best place to start. However, if your van is a few years old, then using a Mercedes dealer could prove expensive when you consider than labour rates are high, sometimes over £100 an hour!
The problem is related to the Sprinter's ECU and WSP module, which is part of the immobilser (a security feature). Replacements can be up to £2000! But before you fall off your chair, you can actually fix the problem before going to such a dramatic resolution.
Unfortunately you can't go to any old auto locksmith, as they require the neccessasry diagnostic equipment for Mercedes vehicles. However, to save you some time, below are some links to locksmiths that can help you out. They are all based in the London and South East areas, covering Kent, Essex, Surrey, Sussex and other Home Counties, so get in touch if you have people to add from other areas.
Mercedes Sprinter Start Error specialists:
Auto Locks
The Car Key Locksmith
Car Key Locksmith
What causes the Start Error?
Well, according to our Mercedes Sprinter Start Error expert friends over at The Car Locksmiths, there are a few reasons for this happening. Recently had to mess around in the engine bay? Had to jump start your Sprinter after a flat battery? They are the most common culprits, but speaking about the Start Error issue Autolocks, they've even heard the message has shown up just by driving normally, with a van otherwise working fine.
How can you fix the Start Error?
Most people would normally instantly think to go back to Mercedes, and if your Sprinter is under warranty, that is probably the best place to start. However, if your van is a few years old, then using a Mercedes dealer could prove expensive when you consider than labour rates are high, sometimes over £100 an hour!
The problem is related to the Sprinter's ECU and WSP module, which is part of the immobilser (a security feature). Replacements can be up to £2000! But before you fall off your chair, you can actually fix the problem before going to such a dramatic resolution.
Unfortunately you can't go to any old auto locksmith, as they require the neccessasry diagnostic equipment for Mercedes vehicles. However, to save you some time, below are some links to locksmiths that can help you out. They are all based in the London and South East areas, covering Kent, Essex, Surrey, Sussex and other Home Counties, so get in touch if you have people to add from other areas.
Mercedes Sprinter Start Error specialists:
Auto Locks
The Car Key Locksmith
Car Key Locksmith
Tuesday 24 May 2011
Looking for a new car? Ensure its secure!
Naturally, when comparing cars, we tend to look at how much they cost, how much equipment is included and what the aftersales services is like. But before you sign on the dotted line, have you thought about security?
Ensuring your car is secure as possible is especially important on older cars, where security is of course not quite as sophiscated as it is nowadays. In fact, the majority of car thefts today are done by stealing the car key in the first place, as its pratically impossible to get in and start the car without it. On older cars though, it can be worryingly easy to get in and drive away.
Fortunately, UK buyers have a helping hand thanks to Thatcham. This company essentially breaks into cars for a living, thereby testing the security features of cars. Cars are then ranked using a star system. They test:
http://www.thatcham.org/nvsr/index.jsp?page=200
Ensuring your car is secure as possible is especially important on older cars, where security is of course not quite as sophiscated as it is nowadays. In fact, the majority of car thefts today are done by stealing the car key in the first place, as its pratically impossible to get in and start the car without it. On older cars though, it can be worryingly easy to get in and drive away.
Fortunately, UK buyers have a helping hand thanks to Thatcham. This company essentially breaks into cars for a living, thereby testing the security features of cars. Cars are then ranked using a star system. They test:
- The car immobilser
- The car locks
- The vehicle identification
- The car alarm
- The car's window glazing
http://www.thatcham.org/nvsr/index.jsp?page=200
Friday 20 May 2011
Be proactive, not reactive, and get a spare car key!
Have you bought a car recently with one car key, knowing full well you should have two? Many people say themselves "i'll sort it out later" but never actually get round to doing so. The problem with this? Well, what if you were to lose your sole car key?
Being unable to access your car, let alone use it, would be a major problem for most people. To fix the problem, you'd have to arrange and pay for a tow truck to take the car to your local dealer, and then pay the dealer to cut you a new key, at significant expense. It'll probably require you to take a day off work too. So, in other words, that is a whole lot of money hassle for a little key! However, did you know there is an alternative solution?
You can avoid this situation from occuring by being proactive and getting a spare key cut. As a mobile car locksmith, we can come out to you and cut you a new key, and if needs be, program a transponder fob too. So for a small fraction of the cost, you have the reassurance in place that, if the worst were to happen, you have a spare key! This also avoids hassle when selling on your car, as the new buyer won't haggle or walk away because there is just the one car key.
Being unable to access your car, let alone use it, would be a major problem for most people. To fix the problem, you'd have to arrange and pay for a tow truck to take the car to your local dealer, and then pay the dealer to cut you a new key, at significant expense. It'll probably require you to take a day off work too. So, in other words, that is a whole lot of money hassle for a little key! However, did you know there is an alternative solution?
You can avoid this situation from occuring by being proactive and getting a spare key cut. As a mobile car locksmith, we can come out to you and cut you a new key, and if needs be, program a transponder fob too. So for a small fraction of the cost, you have the reassurance in place that, if the worst were to happen, you have a spare key! This also avoids hassle when selling on your car, as the new buyer won't haggle or walk away because there is just the one car key.
Tuesday 10 May 2011
Check, Check, and Check again!
I've heard lots of funny stories whilst on the road as an auto locksmith. One client recently phoned me in a state because he had lost his car keys and had no spare. He had scoured his house, garden and retraced his steps relentlessly. As for many people, this was a disaster as it was his family's only car, and was needed for the school run.
After arriving at my client's house a few hours later, within 30 seconds i found his keys lieing on the dashboard! To say he was embarrased was an understatement! But, at least he saved some money, so good news in the end.
My client was lucky though, many othershave phoned me to say they have found their car keys subsequently, after spending the money getting new keys made and their immobilisers/ECU reprogrammed accordingly. This is a shame, but perhaps a lesson in not to be too reactive. Take a step back, calm down and consider where your car keys may be. Then get everyone involved in the search!
Good luck!
After arriving at my client's house a few hours later, within 30 seconds i found his keys lieing on the dashboard! To say he was embarrased was an understatement! But, at least he saved some money, so good news in the end.
My client was lucky though, many othershave phoned me to say they have found their car keys subsequently, after spending the money getting new keys made and their immobilisers/ECU reprogrammed accordingly. This is a shame, but perhaps a lesson in not to be too reactive. Take a step back, calm down and consider where your car keys may be. Then get everyone involved in the search!
Good luck!
Lost your keys? How should you react?
Naturally, the first thing you want when you lose your car keys is to get back on the move. In the modern age, we are dependent on our cars for both work and leisure, so losing access to your car is like losing a limb!
One thing to remember if your car keys are lost, then the first thing you should do is phone the local police station. You never know, the keys may have been handed in. If not, then you should inform the police of your details so they are aware of the situation. The worst case scenario is you may think you have 'lost' your car keys, but in fact they could have been stolen.
Once this is done, get onto a locksmith specialising in cars. Known as 'auto locksmiths', there will be plenty in your local area. Normally mobile, they can come to you to help you gain access to your car and provide you with a new set of keys.
If you have to wait a long time for your auto locksmith to arrive, do you have a spare car key in the meantime? Then as soon as possible, move the car to another location if you are leaving the car unattended. If the keys have been stolen, there is a high chance the thief knows where the car is located too.
If you haven't got a spare key, then try to disable the the car somehow (remove wheels, battery etc.) so that, even with a key, the car can't be moved. Alternatively, block the car in so it is impossible to drive away in it.
Thanks to our friends at Car Key Locksmith for the info in this article :)
One thing to remember if your car keys are lost, then the first thing you should do is phone the local police station. You never know, the keys may have been handed in. If not, then you should inform the police of your details so they are aware of the situation. The worst case scenario is you may think you have 'lost' your car keys, but in fact they could have been stolen.
Once this is done, get onto a locksmith specialising in cars. Known as 'auto locksmiths', there will be plenty in your local area. Normally mobile, they can come to you to help you gain access to your car and provide you with a new set of keys.
If you have to wait a long time for your auto locksmith to arrive, do you have a spare car key in the meantime? Then as soon as possible, move the car to another location if you are leaving the car unattended. If the keys have been stolen, there is a high chance the thief knows where the car is located too.
If you haven't got a spare key, then try to disable the the car somehow (remove wheels, battery etc.) so that, even with a key, the car can't be moved. Alternatively, block the car in so it is impossible to drive away in it.
Thanks to our friends at Car Key Locksmith for the info in this article :)
Tuesday 22 February 2011
The Car Locksmiths arrive on Blogger!
Hi Bloggers!
We're pleased to launch our own Blog, where we share tips for those stuck with lost or broken car keys, or similar problems with their cars!
We're also here to the shake up the industry, many people simply don't realise that there are more options than simply going to your car dealer. Losing your car keys, or a damaged lock needn't be a financial nightmare. It also doesn't need to inconvience you greatly.
So, to introduce us formally, we are The Car Locksmiths. We are mobile 24HR auto locksmiths, helping those with with lost car keys, broken car keys and damaged car locks. In order to get people back on the road, we can also take care of appropriate ECU and transponder programming.
Stay tuned for more info!
P.S For bite-sized hits and tips, be sure to follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/TheCarLocksmith
We're pleased to launch our own Blog, where we share tips for those stuck with lost or broken car keys, or similar problems with their cars!
We're also here to the shake up the industry, many people simply don't realise that there are more options than simply going to your car dealer. Losing your car keys, or a damaged lock needn't be a financial nightmare. It also doesn't need to inconvience you greatly.
So, to introduce us formally, we are The Car Locksmiths. We are mobile 24HR auto locksmiths, helping those with with lost car keys, broken car keys and damaged car locks. In order to get people back on the road, we can also take care of appropriate ECU and transponder programming.
Stay tuned for more info!
P.S For bite-sized hits and tips, be sure to follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/TheCarLocksmith
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