Here at Delta Locksmith, we get hundreds of phone calls from customers asking us questions about locksmith issues, locks, keys, car keys, transponder keys, etc. Over the years we have started to notice a set of questions that seem to continuously arrive. Below you’ll find a few of our most frequently asked questions. You can always call us 24/7 at (800) 519-2400!
Q: My Door Key Won’t Work? What Can I Do?
A: Often we get calls from individuals saying that the key broke, it won’t work, the nob keeps spinning, etc. One would naturally assume that this means the lock is broken and a new one is required. However, this is not always the case. Inside the lock is the lock mechanism. Often when a key breaks inside, the nob keeps spinning or just won’t work, the lock mechanism is broken. In this case, one can just rekey the lock to work to a new key and change the mechanism. You can still keep the original lock, it will just work with a new key. If, however, the lock is completely broken, then a new lock would need to be installed. Ask your locksmith exactly what needs to be done to your specific lock.
Q: Why should I use a professional locksmith company?
A: Skilled professional locksmiths bring experience and fund of knowledge in lock, safe & security problems and are better prepared to solve security issues to your unique situation. A professional locksmith can prescribe state-of-the-art products that work, and more effective solutions in an efficient manner. Delta Locksmith is a fully certified locksmith company, so you can rest assured that you’ll be receiving quality locksmith support!
Q: Prices? Can You Give Me a Price Quote?
A: Like any purchase, informed customers are going to want to know exactly how much they will be paying for a specific type of service. Here at Delta Locksmith Dallas, our friendly staff will be able to provide you with a price quote via the phone 24/7. Including both the service and the labor cost, we’ll give you a detailed explanation of how the price is calculated. A note to customers: be weary of places offering “flat rates”. No one other than the locksmith at the end of performing with the service will know exactly how difficult a job will be. Maybe from the outside the lock looks fine, but on the inside, it’s a total mess. A flat rate means that you pay for just the service you were quoted, nothing else, even if you need more! Always look for a price range as it will include the complete service from start to finish.
Q: I have a key marked “Do Not Duplicate.” Can I get a copy of it anyway?
A: Keys marked “Do Not Duplicate,” ” Do Not Copy,” or “Unlawful to Copy” may be duplicated only if a letter of authorization from the owner or supervisor is presented with the request for duplication. The person picking up the keys will be required to fill out a “Request for Restricted Keys” form. We reserve the right to refuse to duplicate any key marked “Do Not Duplicate.”
Q: What is a Transponder Key? How can I make a copy or replace it?
A: A transponder key is a certain type of car key that adds an extra layer of security to a vehicle. Starting in 1995, luxury car companies, in an effort to boost sales with “new security features” began experimenting with transponder keys and chip technology. A transponder key works like this: every car has a specific computer code built in to the onboard computer. When a certain key with a specific chip is programmed to exactly match the computer code, the key can then be inserted in to the ignition and the car will start. If, for any reason, the chip was deactivated, improperly cut or damaged, the car will not recognize the chip, will shut off, and the car will not run.
Today, most cars feature some form of transponder key chip programming. If you lost your car key, contact Delta Locksmith. We’ll be able to work directly with your car to program a specific key for your onboard computer and ignition. Best of all, we’ll come directly to you, so you don’t have to get the vehicle towed to the dealership. It will save you time, energy, and most importantly, money!
Q: I locked my keys in my trunk? What Do I Do?
A: Locking your keys in the trunk of your car really depends on whether the body of the vehicle (where the passengers sit) is locked and if the body of the vehicle has a trunk release switch or not. Most vehicles have a release switch next to the passenger seat which allows them to open the trunk of the vehicle from inside. If you have this type of switch and are locked out of the car, a locksmith can let you in to the body of the vehicle and then you can pull the switch and the trunk will open. However, if your car doesn’t have a release switch (which is common in luxury vehicles such as BMW, Mercedes, etc.), a new car key needs to be made. If a locksmith unlocks the body of a luxury vehicle, the internal computer system will put the car in emergency lockdown and one won’t be able to get back in to the vehicle. Thus if no release switch exists, a new key will need to be made which often has to be done by the dealership.
