Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Q: When should I call a locksmith?
A: There are many situations in which it is a good idea to call a locksmith. At Locksmith Valley Park we can provide you with any locksmith service that you need. We make keys for homes, offices and cars. We install security hardware (such as deadbolts) and access control systems. We can give you advice for your particular security need. We can help you gain access to your home, office, or car if you happen to get locked out. You name it, we can help you with it. If for some reason we cannot help you with something, we will work with you to assist you to find someone who can. Your safety is our main concern.
Q: Can I schedule a specific appointment time with Valley Park Locksmith?
A: At Locksmith Valley Park , we are equipped to handle emergency situations as well as scheduled appointments.
Q: Should I use WD-40 or Graphite in my locks?
A: The answer is easy… Don’t ever use either one in your vehicle locks. WD-40 and similar petroleum based lubricants can, over time dry into a sticky film that not only inhibits the moving parts inside the lock but also traps the dirt and road grime leading to all sorts of lock failure. Graphite is the lubricant of choice for house, office, hotel type locks. In this application it works great. Vehicle locks are a whole different animal. Because the locks come from the factory pre-greased, putting graphite in them is only going to make mud. For the health and longevity of your vehicle locks we recommend using a Teflon or silicon based lube. These are found in most hardware and home improvement stores. The particular brand that we use is Tri-Flow, but there are many others that work just as well.
Q: What is a transponder key?
A: A key that has a device imbedded inside which transmits and receives data. These devices contain one of over a trillion unique codes. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder sends a signal to a disc-shaped antenna mounted behind the steering wheel. If the signal is recognized by the vehicles immobilizer, then the engine will start. If the signal is not recognized or has been weakened by damage to the transponder then the immobilizer will shut down vital operating systems to the engine and it will not run. This technology greatly reduces the risk of auto theft and provides a peace of mind for the vehicles owner.
Q: I found my keys after you made a new one and they don’t work anymore. Why is this and how can I fix it?
A: Some vehicles that are equipped with transponder technology require all previous keys to be removed from the system before a new one can be programmed in. This is not a cause for alarm. In many cases you can add these keys back into the system yourself. In some cases however, one of our techs will have to add it in for you. If this has happened to you, then please e-mail or call us, we will be glad to help you.
Q: How is my Transponder key programmed?
A: Every car is programmed differently. Most Transponder keys come preprogrammed with a fixed code. This means that it cannot be changed to match the vehicle. The solution to this is to program the vehicle to recognize the new code. This is done with a variety of equipment depending on the year make and model of the vehicle.
Q: What is a Laser Cut key?
A: Contrary to its name, lasers are not used to cut these keys. This term refers to keys with the milling on the side rather than on the top and bottom. For years only high end manufacturers like Mercedes and BMW used this style of higher security. These days however, A good number of vehicles including Honda, GM, VW, Lexus, Infinity, Volvo, Saab, Audi and many more use them. Getting a copy of one of these keys can sometimes be very difficult. Getting a key replaced when there are no keys can even be a nightmare. That is of course if you don’t call us. We have the ability and equipment to copy, or even generate a new one of these “laser cut” keys. To sweeten the deal, we come to you! no driving, no waiting rooms, no hassle.
Q: Why should I make sure that I hire a licensed, professional locksmith?
A: Unfortunately, there are many individuals out there who are working as locksmiths but are not licensed. Most of the time these unlicensed, inexperienced, unprofessional