7 Common Mistakes To Avoid Before Calling A Locksmith

Being locked out of your car is no joke. Whether you simply can’t find your keys or locked them inside the vehicle itself, you’re sure to feel incredibly frustrated. Worse still, if you’re running on a tight schedule or become involved in an emergency situation, being unable to get behind the wheel may have far-reaching repercussions.

Fortunately, professional locksmiths are only a phone call away. Within moments, you can be back in the driving seat and on your way to … well, wherever you have to be. However, before you call a locksmith, you should try to avoid the following common mistakes.

Not Checking You Have Your Keys before Exiting Your Vehicle

Carly Rowley

This is an obvious point, but it really is a common mistake. Whenever you’re about to exit your vehicle, do a quick check to make sure you have your keys on you – pat your pockets, look in your purse, whatever. Just be sure you know where they are before you let that door slam shut after you.

Not Having a Dedicated Key-Spot

Whenever you get home or to your workplace, you should put your keys in the same spot every single time: place them in a bowl, on a hook, or in the same compartment in your bag. This way, you’ll always know where they are and come to put them in the right place on autopilot.

Failing to Put New Batteries in Your Fob

If your key fob takes a few tries before it actually works, the battery’s likely running down. Be sure to invest in a new battery to avoid it becoming totally inoperable – auto-part retailers will be able to help you out.

Not Having Spare Keys Cut

You should already have a spare car key, but if not, this is a mistake you can easily avoid. For standard keys without the fob or RFID chip inside, any key-cutting service will be able to help you, otherwise you’re best visiting your dealership. There should be only a modest expense, and it’ll be well worth it.

Not Making Your Keys Easy to See

This is a basic mistake – failing to attach something to your keys to make them easily visible. Add a colorful ribbon, a sticker, a touch of luminous paint, or attach the key to a novelty keyring (they’ll also weigh a little more, making their absence more noticeable). This will help you spot them in less time. You might also want to invest in an alarm, which creates sound for you to follow when you can’t find your keys.

Not Doing Your Research on Local Locksmiths

You never know when you might need a locksmith, so look into the best in your local area. Check with friends and family, read online reviews, and visit the most reputable to get an idea of their rates.

Leaving Valuables on Display

Don’t leave valuables on display when you exit your car: while you may not want to smash a window to get inside, a thief will have no such qualms to get to your expensive phone or piece of jewelry.

Eventually, however, you may well have to call a locksmith. Jeremy Magan, Executive Manager at Car Locksmith Cincinnati, offered this advice:

“The best locksmiths will be only too happy to provide rates, estimated times to arrive, and other key details when you call – be wary of those that aren’t. At Car Locksmith Cincinnati, we’re dedicated to helping you get back into your vehicle no matter what, whether you need us to unlock your door, open your trunk, replace your ignition, or any other number of services. Always make sure you only call the most reputable locksmith in your area – don’t accept the help of just anyone who claims to know what they’re doing.”

For more information click here:

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0089-finding-locksmith