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Mableton Locksmith GA: Various Kinds of Locks

If you have ever looked around for locks for your front door, or for other parts of your property, then you know that there are many different kinds available. Not only do you have choices in terms of manufacturers and materials, but you have options in regards to how the locks look. Any homeowner will be able to find locks that match the architecture of their house, which is great. Many people don’t realize just how many types of locks are available, and they could benefit just about anyone’s residential or commercial property. Mableton Locksmith GA has provided some of the options which are available on the market today for your reference. This is beneficial for those who are paying attention to their security, whether in Mableton, Georgia or anywhere else in the world.

Here are some of the most popular lock options that exist today:

Padlocks – These are great for a person who is looking for a lock that doesn’t have to be attached to any specific structure. Padlocks are portable, which can make them convenient for a person who is looking to lock up, say, a bike or a locker. Combination and keyed are the two types of padlocks available. You can also find ones that have a shrouded shackle, which makes it difficult for someone to cut it open. If you think that a padlock could benefit you, then it certainly is worth the minimal amount of money to keep your items protected.  

Deadbolts – Deadbolts are available as single, double and lockable thumbturn. Any locksmith professional will be able to explain these terms in further detail, but here are the basics… If you have a home with a deadbolt, it is more than likely single cylinder. A double deadbolt has a key cylinder on the outside and the inside of a door, unlike a single cylinder, which only has a key cylinder on the exterior and then a thumbturn on the inside. The last type of deadbolt, thumbturn, is sort of a combination of the two aforementioned types. Again, a lock and security professional will be able to provide further details on these deadbolts, so it can be worth speaking to them over the phone if there is any confusion at all.  

Knob locks – A knob lock might actually be used as a primary form of security. They are not the most popular type of lock and should not be used as a security form on the exterior of doors. They are easy to pick open, so you might consider another type of lock or a replacement if you currently use knob locks on your property.    

Lever handle locks – This type of lock is more common in commercial settings. They use a handle rather than a knob if being compared to knob locks.  

Mortise locks – This type of lock is also frequently found in commercial settings. There are different options in terms of length which are available, and they are threaded and use a cam.  

Keyless entry locks – This is very popular for commercial and residential properties alike. As a matter of fact, keyless entry is even popular for cars. With the simple pressing of a few buttons, or a code, a person is able to access a property. On the contrary, one who doesn’t have the code for keyless entry will be unable to get into a property. Keyless entry, then, is used to prevent unauthorized access and allows someone to avoid carrying around a key if they do not want to do so. For added security, keyless entry systems can be made to alert authorities if an incorrect code is entered too many times. This is a good idea for commercial building owners and for homeowners who travel often. If you aren’t there, you will want to know if someone is attempting to get into your property.  

Wall mounted locks – These locks are, you guessed it, mounted into the wall. These are sometimes used for key storage in commercial buildings. Actually, some of them are used for access to safes or security boxes. While these are usually installed at the time a building is constructed, they can be added later by someone who knows what they are doing. Again, this is a good service to contact a lock and security expert for. A quick search will showcase trustworthy local locksmiths in your specific area.  

These are just some of the locks that are available to help you out with property protection. Anyone who owns a home, whether it is an apartment, townhome or single family home, and anyone who owns a commercial structure should consider the ways that they can keep it protected. Locks are one of many steps that can be taken, and a trustworthy local locksmith will be able to install brand new locks so that you don’t have to do it yourself. Installing a lock incorrectly can mean that it won’t work properly. It’s best to have a professional do the job. It will save time and money. Not to mention, speaking with a professional might provide even more ideas for property protection. From new lock installation and smart keys to transponder key programming and even intercom systems, there are so many ways to keep your belongings convenient to access (by you) and safe. Be sure to talk with an expert to find out more.

Whether you are in Mableton, GA or elsewhere in the world, you need to lock up what is yours. Start by having locks installed that you know you can rely on. Brands like Mul-T-Lock, Kaba, Medeco, and Yale are merely some of the numerous options which are available, and they all produce excellent products. Do some research and see what is out there, then decide what works best for you. Remember, locks are definitely worth investing in, and you will find something that works for your needs and concerns, and fits within your budget.  

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4 Common Transponder Key Problems

In the ever-changing world of automotive security, transponder keys technology is practically ancient by now. Yet this form of security protection is still utilized by many older vehicles being driven today. As this type of technology begins to age inevitably, problems occur from the regular wear and tear of many years of use. If your vehicle uses a transponder key and you’re experiencing problems, read on for more information about the causes and how to handle transponder key problems. In most cases, the most helpful action to take is to call a professional locksmith company, such as Mableton GA Locksmith in Mableton, GA.

 What are Transponder Keys?

You might have heard the term “transponder key,” but what makes this type of vehicle key different from a regular key? Each transponder key has a unique microchip in the key fob (the plastic “head” of the key) that has the ability to send a coded signal to your engine. This code has to match the signal each particular engine is looking for. The technical way these work is that when you insert your transponder key into the ignition lock, the vehicle immobilizer is disarmed via a signal sent and received between the ignition and the engine. Many cars on the road use transponder keys as they are still considered an effective theft deterrent.  

It may not seem like it when you’re facing a problem with your transponder chip key, but they were created with not only theft-deterring properties but also convenience in mind. Transponder keys have protected many vehicles from being stolen over the years utilizing simple technology that works most of the time.  

Common Transponder Key Problems

As useful as transponder chip keys have been, they also can cause problems in several different forms. The following is a list of some of the most common transponder key problems you may encounter and what to do if you’re facing such a situation.  

Problem #1: A Lost or Stolen Transponder Key

Just like any other key that gets lost, you will need to have your transponder key replaced if it gets lost, misplaced, or stolen. It’s especially crucial to act fast if your transponder key is stolen, due to the fact that the person who took it might use the key to break in to your vehicle. No matter how careful you might feel like you are with your car key, it’s still possible to lose your key due to a mistake. In these cases, you might need to call a 24-hour locksmith to assist you in being able to use your vehicle. Once your transponder key is replaced, talk to the locksmith about issuing a duplicate of the key so that you always have a spare key accessible to prevent a lockout from occurring in the future.  

Problem #2: A Damaged Transponder Chip

Your key relies on the transponder chip inside of it to work. Even if it correctly fits into the right ignition lock, nothing will happen if the chip is somehow damaged and fails to send the right signal to disable the engine’s immobilizer. The chip can become damaged even if the external fob appears fine. Usually the symptoms of this involve your key only working sometimes or stopping working abruptly. If your transponder chip has been damaged, most of the time the only option moving forward is to have it replaced by a professional locksmith. In the Mableton, GA, area, Mableton GA Locksmith can easily and affordably replace your damaged transponder chip key. If your transponder key is damaged, don’t throw it away until you’ve had a locksmith work on the vehicle.  

Problem #3: Transponder Chip Loses Programming

This problem is rare but it does happen occasionally. For one reason or another, your key stops working with your engine. There’s no physical damage to the key or the chip inside or to the ignition, but the transponder chip doesn’t work. Sometimes this can also be due to a dead battery inside your transponder key. Not all transponder keys use batteries, but some do, and those batteries can die. If the battery dies, it may reset the code in the chip once the battery is replaced depending on the model of transponder key you have. A transponder key that has lost the ability to communicate properly with your engine will require reprogramming by a professional locksmith. A high-quality locksmith will be able to reprogram your transponder key’s chip effectively and affordably to get you back on the road again.  

Problem #4: A Poorly Programmed Duplicate

It’s possible to purchase a duplicate, used transponder key online, which may appear to be less expensive than having one crafted new. However, due to the safety features and sensitive nature of these keys, it’s often the case that they are not able to be reprogrammed to fit another vehicle. So the money that you think you’re saving upfront by purchasing the transponder key online is completely cancelled out by the fact that you’ll now still have to have your key replaced by a professional but you’ve already shelled out money for a useless key. It’s almost always best to go directly to a locksmith to have your key duplicated.  

How to Fix Transponder Key Problems

Many people assume they’ll have to turn to a dealership to replace or repair their transponder chip keys if a problem occurs. However, it’s usually the most cost-effective and smart to turn to an automotive local locksmith to assist you. Locksmiths can replace transponder chip keys for virtually any type of car and can also duplicate your key for an affordable price. The right locksmith company is open 24/7 to serve you whenever you need your key repaired, replaced, or duplicated. Make sure the company you choose has a trustworthy reputation and is upfront about the charges you will incur for transponder key services. By leaving the job to a high-quality professional locksmith, you’ll guarantee that you’ll be back behind the wheel in no time.

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Ignition Cylinder Problems; What to do About Them!

Ask any child to name the most important parts to a car and they will mention tires, engine or radiator, but how many will say that the ignition is vital? We all know that a working ignition system is crucial to starting and running any kind of motor vehicle, including the one(s) you drive now. You can have the best auto parts but if your ignition is not working right, you aren’t going far. Here at Mableton GA Locksmith we deal with auto ignition on a regular basis, so we know the importance of having a safe and working system.

Unfortunately, most of us don’t know that something is wrong with our ignitions until it’s too late and our driving plans are momentarily ruined. Let’s say we are going to a movie or on a road trip with the family. You’ve dressed accordingly and buckled the kids into their seats; all ready to go. You turn the ignition key and… nothing happens! Your engine does not start and often, the key doesn’t even turn. It might even get stuck and not come back out! Here’s where panic ensues and your emotions run the gamut from fear, anger, panic and regret. All too often, drivers reach for their phones and call for help; usually unneeded or the wrong kind of help. Frantic calls for a tow truck or to AAA are the norm when they usually are not needed. All car related problems are not strictly in the realm of auto mechanics so smart consumers will hold off calling a repair shop and try a few adjustments first.

Try these adjustments first

Our Mableton, Georgia locksmith shop offers these easy tips to see if the problem is indeed your ignition. Much like the human body and illness, your car can exhibit symptoms that can be caused by many different issues. Our recommendation – try these tips first. Then, if nothing works, call for the professional help of your choice.

The right gear

This one is so simple you might just dismiss it, but don’t do that – it can save you money and even your life! Here it is; check your gear. Are you in PARK? Check and see. You can’t start your car in D or in R – only P which stands for PARK. Many don’t bother looking and simply panic when the ignition key won’t work or it gets stuck. Be double sure to put your parking brake on before checking – every year out-of-gear accidents cause injury, property damage and even death! Don’t take chances! Apply your emergency brake and check your gear.

Is your steering wheel locked?

Modern steering systems tend to lock up if leaned upon too strongly. Many a AAA driver has been called upon to fix a locked steering wheel when all that was really needed was a strong back and forth movement to unlock it. If your steering wheel won’t turn or even release the ignition key, try moving it back and forth a few times. The problem is not a faulty ignition but a simple locking mechanism that is really a safety feature, so don’t be fooled!

Is your battery drained?

Another culprit that can affect your ability to drive is your car’s battery. If yours is drained, it can produce symptoms similar to ignition cylinder issues. First of all, apply your emergency brake. Now, turn on your headlights, windshield wipers, radio or try your power windows. Do they work? If so, your battery is fine. If not, your battery is probably drained and that alone can cause issues with starting your car that can seem like ignition problems.  

Did you use the right key?

We’re serious – it can be easy to grab the wrong ignition key. It may go into your ignition but it certainly won’t turn or start your car. It may become stuck when you try and remove it, too. Many homes and offices have workers and residents that all drive. Each has a transponder key and it can be easy to mistakenly grab the wrong one; especially when the car maker is the same as yours. Just because your key goes in doesn’t mean that it won’t become stuck, so be prepared for that possibility. If it does stick; spray it with lubricant to release it but be extra careful to not break it. Your problems can become compounded if you also have to have broken-off key extraction and transponder key programming and duplication.  

Get professional help, but…

Did any of that work? No? It may be time to call for professional help but be careful. A car mechanic can possibly fix your ignition but what is really involved? Remember, your car doesn’t start so it will need to be towed into the shop. You are facing long service area waits and possibly middle man charges if your mechanic has to call a locksmith. Why not just stay right there and call your own locksmith? Most established automotive locksmiths will offer two distinct advantages over working with an auto mechanic. Firstly, they are mobile and can come directly to you. No dealing with tow trucks and the added expense involved. Stay at the comfort of your own home or business and let your locksmith come to you. Secondly, your better locksmith shops will offer 24-hour emergency service that can help if your situation is urgent. Try finding a car dealer or auto mechanic that does that!

Do you have a locksmith shop of choice here in town? You can always call us but if you have your own favorite shop or live outside of Mableton, feel free to use another one. Look for 24-hour availability, mobile convenience, affordable rates, and free, cheerfully given price quotes and details. Your locksmith(s) should be licensed, bonded and insured and offer a full range of automotive lock and key products and services. Use the right locksmiths and you’ll be driving again sooner and for less money!

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Mableton GA Locksmith: What to Do in Different Lockout Situations

You probably have several things to get done on your to-do list today; maybe you know right off the bat that you won’t get everything finished, but you can at least set a goal and go for it! From doing laundry and dishes to scheduling meetings for the day, and maybe even appointments, you have a lot to get done. One thing that we can bet isn’t on your to-do list is to get locked out of your property. Unfortunately, this is something that can happen to anyone. Lockouts can happen to anyone, anywhere. You can get locked out of your office. This can be very frustrating and stressful, because it might cause you to miss important deadlines. You can get locked out of your car, which could actually be dangerous depending on where you are. And of course, you can lock yourself out of your home, which means that you can’t get inside the place that you live and relax. So, what are you supposed to do? The short answer: call a locksmith! Of course, there are other steps that you can take prior to resorting to calling in a professional. 

Try to Avoid a Lockout!

This is obvious. Everyone wants to avoid getting locked out. But you can try to prevent this from happening by having a spare key. You should always have a spare when it comes to your place of work (especially if you are the property manager), when you own a home and when you own a vehicle. Usually, your vehicle will come with two keys to begin with. So, avoid a lockout by having a spare!

How Do Lockouts Happen?

There are so many things that can come up which will leave you locked out. Take a look and see if any of the scenarios listed apply to you:

The keys are missing

So many things can happen. Maybe you were playing with your kids in the local park, and when you got back home, you realized your house key wasn’t there. Or maybe you didn’t even get that far. Maybe when you went to get into your vehicle, you realized your key was nowhere to be found. So you search and search all over this field, knowing that the chances are slim to none that you will find the key. This is going to leave you locked out of your vehicle. This is very scary and frustrating!  

The keys were taken from you.  

Unfortunately, theft can happen anywhere. Your keys might have been stolen from right under your nose. Not only is this upsetting, but it feels invasive. You can try to prevent theft from happening by paying close attention to your surroundings and by keeping your keys on your body. Of course, it isn’t always preventable.  

The keys aren’t working because of damage.  

If your key is broken, then you might not be able to open the door with it. This will leave you locked out. You can try to prevent broken keys by ensuring they are in good shape. You can also be sure to avoid putting too much weight on your keyring. Finally, if it ever gets stuck in a lock, don’t pull forcefully on it, as this might cause it to break.  

The keys were left elsewhere.  

Maybe you took a nice vacation with your partner. He drove, so you really didn’t need to grab your keyring on the trip. But when you finally get home and reach into your purse, you notice that the keys are gone. That’s when it clicks. You left them at your friend’s house when you stopped by for a visit. Your friend can certainly mail them to you, but even if she overnights them, you’re going to have to wait. What are you supposed to do? Sit outside your house overnight? In this case, you are locked out because you left your key somewhere in which it isn’t easily accessible.  

What To Do When You Are Locked Out

If your keys are missing or not within your reach then you might need a locksmith. But before you call and make an appointment for someone to come out right away, here are some final things to try…

Get your spare!

If a neighbor has your spare key, now would be a great time to get it from them. If you have a spare hidden somewhere outside of your property, go and grab it! Then, you can have another key created if the one you usually use can’t be found.  

Check another form of entry.  

We have received calls from customers who believe they are locked out of their car, but they actually aren’t. Here is what we mean: a person will press the lock button inside of their vehicle and step outside. They then shut the door. Suddenly, they realize they just locked the door and the key is on the driver’s seat. They’ll assume they are locked out prior to trying to open another door. Try a back door. Sometimes, when you press the lock button in your vehicle’s door, it doesn’t lock the back doors unless you press it more than once. It’s worth a shot!  

If you’re locked out of the house, check to see if the back door was left unlocked, or if you can access the basement. Just be safe, because it certainly isn’t worth getting hurt to get into your property when you do have other options available for an affordable price.  

If you are definitely locked out, get on the phone with a locksmith. The rates tend to be very affordable, and a lock and security provider should be available to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They know lockouts happen around the clock! If you are in Mableton, Georgia then call Mableton GA Locksmith. We are proud to have a great reputation with locals in this part of GA. Thanks for stopping by to learn more about lockouts and what you should do in the various situations that can come up.  

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Mableton GA Locksmith in Mableton, GA: When to Replace Locks

There are some clear-cut cases where replacing a lock is not an option. But, there are others where you may go back and forth on your decision to get new locks. How about getting the expert opinion of a professional locksmith?  

At Mableton GA Locksmith in Mableton, GA, we can inspect your locks and help you to figure out which ones need replacing. But, you can always inspect your locks on your own. If you’re interested to do this, just make sure you know exactly what to look for. Otherwise, you may be inspecting them in vain and end up right back where you started.  

How Often Should You Change Your Locks?

Is there really some specific recommended time for keeping your locks? The answer is no. Unlike car parts that may have mileage recommendations or food with expiry dates, your locks will not come with an expiry date. When it comes to locks, there are many factors that can affect how long they remain effective. If you want your locks to last for a long time, the best thing to do is take good care of them. Once you do that, you should get many years of good service from those locks.

Still, no matter how well you take care of your locks, at some point, you will have to replace them because they are just simply too worn out. Here are a few things that can cause you to replace your locks.  

Excessive Wear and tear

With constant use of your locks, you must expect that they will get worn out after some time. Sure, they’re designed to undergo wear and tear, but the constant movement of the parts may lead to friction that causes some damage to the locking mechanism of your locks. If you’re not sure if your lock is worn out, ask your locksmith to have a look for you.  

2. Excessive damage

Sometimes your locks can get damaged without you noticing. But, over time, this damage can worsen. Don’t ignore your locks because they seem to be functioning fine. There may be a lot of damage to the lock. Perhaps your locks have been malfunctioning but you have been ignoring it because you think the lock is old and that’s just a manifestation of its age. Not true. The best thing to do is replace that lock as soon as possible.  

3. Break-in

If there’s no other time you think it’s important to replace locks, make sure you change them after you’ve experienced a break-in. Your locks could have been severely damaged. It doesn’t matter whether the attempt to break-in was successful or not. Getting those locks changed should be a standard part of your recovery process. If the burglar was successful in getting inside your home, consider purchasing locks that are safer. If they were unsuccessful, it may be ok to replace your locks with the same type of locks.

4. Lost or stolen keys

You won’t always know where you lost your keys. And if they’re stolen, you won’t know where they end up. To prevent unauthorized persons from using those keys to access your property, the best thing to do is replace your locks. This is especially important if your locks cannot be rekeyed. Sometimes, depending on the type of locks you have, it will make much more sense to have them replaced instead of rekeyed.

5. A new house

Although you will be given your new house keys once the deal is closed, and you expect that there is no other copy of your keys out there, you never know. Would you like someone barging into your new home because they had a key from the previous occupant? We’re sure you don’t. You can easily avoid this by replacing the locks on the door. While you don’t need to replace every lock, the ones on the exterior doors are very crucial for replacing.  

6. The end of a relationship

One of the sad realities in life is that you will have friends that come and go. For some of these people, you may have been so close to them that you gave them a key to access your property. If a relationship like this has ended, be sure to replace your locks. It doesn’t matter if it was a boyfriend, girlfriend, a family member or just a friend. Replacing your locks can prevent unnecessary altercations or spiteful mishaps.  

So, You’ve Realized That Your Locks Need Changing … What’s Next?

It’s simple- you replace them. Some people will try to replace their locks without getting professional help. In some instances, this can end up being a good way to save money. But, it requires a lot of time and some amount of knowledge and expertise. Not a handy person? That’s no problem. There are many trained locksmiths out there. Once you call on a good locksmith to replace your locks, you shouldn’t have any problems getting the service you desire.  

When your locks get replaced, make sure that you take care of them. Instead of replacing them in a few years, you could have them lasting for decades. It doesn’t matter how expensive your locks are, giving them proper care can make a huge difference in how they function and how long they last.  

Wondering what to do so you can get the best service from your locks? Check out these tips:

Lubricate the moving parts of the lock to prevent excessive friction.

Clean your locks periodically to prevent a build-up of dust, dirt and debris.

Do not stress or put strain on your locks. (This is especially important for locks that are on doors as the door may ‘drop’ and put pressure on the lock.)  

There is a lot more to lock care and many other symptoms to look out for when it comes on to replacing your locks. If you would like more information about locks and how to care for them, contact the lock specialists at Mableton GA Locksmith in Mableton, GA. We can help you with all types of locks.