Various Types of Door Locks

When you need a new lock, you likely just go to the nearest hardware store and tell them you need a lock. You might choose your lock simply based on how much you want to pay for it rather than its level of durability. This can be a huge mistake on your part. Remember that your homes first point of defense begins with the type of locks you have on your home. At Pro Newport News Locksmith in Newport News, VA, we encourage you to think seriously about the next lock you purchase. Your safety and security should be of utmost importance to you not how much you can save on a lock. When you do not have the right type of lock for your home doors, you risk the possibility of a home intrusion. Finding the right lock might take a little more time to do but it is well worth knowing that the lock you choose will keep out intruders who might cause you harm. You may pick up a lock for your exterior door that should only be used for interior doors. A burglar would be able to see this and might just make your home their next target.

It is helpful to know what you are looking for before you head to the store to buy a new lock for your door. Even though you may be familiar with the names of some of the popular lock brands, this doesn’t mean that they are good locks. Just because you have heard of the brand doesn’t mean that it is a good brand. Perhaps the manufacturer is able to afford more advertising or needs to do more advertising than those lock brands with a known reputation. If you have the right type of lock on your home doors, you minimize the chances of anyone being able to break into your home.

Types of Locks to Consider

Deadbolt Locks – Everyone has heard of deadbolt locks. The reason that deadbolt locks are so popular is because they are effective in keeping out intruders. They are amongst the most durable locks offered and just about every home has one. If you do not have deadbolt locks on your home, call our locksmiths today and let us determine where you should have them installed. There is no reason that you should go without the amount of security needed to protect you and your loved ones. They are not only effective in keeping out intruders but they are also very affordable. This is why everyone should have a deadbolt lock on their home doors. You may not be aware of this but there are several types of deadbolt locks. The one that we install most often is the single deadbolt lock. This one only requires one key to open it. Unlike the double deadbolt, which requires two different keys to unlock. This could be dangerous in a high-risk situation.

Jimmy Proof Deadbolts  - This type of deadbolt lock is installed on double doors. The bolt is installed in the doorjamb bracket. It is harder for someone to pull apart this type of deadbolt lock than a standard lock. There are lock screws inside the door.

Knob Locks  - This is the type of lock that most people are familiar with since you’ll also find them in every home you enter. They are generally installed on front doors, patio doors, garage doors and even interior doors. There is a knob on one side of the door and a keyhole on the other. You need to make sure that the right knob is being applied to the correct door. If your doorknob is on the right, you need a right-hand knob. If it is on the left, you need a left-hand knob. Unfortunately, despite this being such a popular lock, it is easy to break this type of lock. This is why this type of lock is usually accompanied by a deadbolt lock. It should never be the main lock on your door since it is easy to break in with this type of lock on your door. It doesn’t even take a professional thief to compromise this type of lock, just someone with enough manpower. Make sure you ask about other lock options that can be used as a standalone door lock.

Lever Locks– This is the type of lock that you will generally find on the interior doors of your home. They are offered in various colors and styles. With so many different types of lever locks, it is possible for everyone to find the one that will suit their taste preferences. This type of lock doesn’t require a key to open; they simply require that you push a button to disengage the locking mechanism. Since this type of door lock is easy to open, it is only intended for interior doors. It is also another lock that we would never suggest standalone or used as a primary front door lock. They are simply too easy to break into.

Keyless Locks – This type of lock is becoming more and more popular because it prevents illegal entry and it doesn’t require the use of a key to gain access. Many commercial businesses have keyless locks but they have become more popular for homeowners in recent years. The installation of a keyless lock means that all you’ll need to get inside is a code to type into the keypad or a fob card to swipe in front of the keypad. This is a great lock that is both dependable and prevents unauthorized entry. The only way someone could get inside is if you gave them the code to do so.

Pro Newport News Locksmith: Keyless Entry Benefits

For years, many of us have watched movies which showcase high-tech security products that we never thought possible any time soon. But today, many of these products are merging on the market. One of these products is Keyless Entry Systems. In fact, keyless entry has been around for some time now. It is available for commercial and residential properties too. Plus, nowadays there are many vehicles that come with this option.
If you have been resisting the change, now is a good time to get on board. You could be experiencing the benefits of having these locks in place. Pro Newport News Locksmith in Newport News, VA has all the latest on keyless entry systems. If you’re in Virginia, head on over to our store or give us a call. Our team will assist you in the best way possible.

Are Keyless Entry Systems Really Advantageous?
Many people hesitate to gravitate toward new products that hit the market. And rightly so. Why not wait until these products are tried and proven before you dive in? That certainly makes a lot of sense. But, keyless entry systems have been around for quite some time now. Their benefits are no longer questionable. They really do what they say, and they have been proven effective and safe.
If you’re thinking about purchasing and installing a keyless entry system in your home or business, here are a few things that you will love about them.

• They offer a very high level of security.

Compared to traditional lock and key systems, keyless systems are much more secure. Since they do not require the use of a key for access, it is often much more difficult for criminals to breach the system. Plus, access to your property can be restricted to a select few.

With this being so, random persons won’t be able to enter. If you are trying to find a security system that offers more security than your regular locks, keyless entry system is a great alternative to consider.

• They’re very convenient to own.

Many people complain about having to walk around with a big batch of keys. It is even more hassle if you own several properties so you have several sets of keys in your possession at once. Sure, it may seem like a trivial matter to you. But, can you imagine the big convenience of not having to walk around with so many keys at once? Not only will you have less weight to worry about, but you won’t have to wonder about where to store those keys as you move around with them.

This is definitely convenience at its finest. Instead of having the trouble of determining which key fits in what lock, you simply use your access code, RFID card, fingerprint etc., to gain access to your property. Many people may agree that you really can’t put a price tag on convenience, but keyless entry systems certainly seem to be a great option if you’re thinking about the most convenient ways of accessing your property.

• You can get as many or as few features as you want.

There are many different types of keyless entry systems on the market today. Naturally, they have many different features too. While there are systems that have a ton of features, making them highly complex and require a high level of expertise to operate, there are also simple ones. The system you select should match your needs and capabilities.

If you know that you are not very tech savvy and you will be the primary person handling the system, it’s best if you do not choose a system that requires a high level of expertise. But, if you have someone to take care of all those things for you, by all means, go all out with your purchase.

• You won’t have to worry about your keys being stolen/lost/duplicated.

This is an extension of the convenience of these systems. With keys, you have to be extremely careful with where you place them and so on. Not that you won’t be careful with your RFID card or make sure no one has access to your user code. But, getting rid of keys is a freedom that can be very enjoyable.

You won’t have to worry about losing your keys and you won’t have to think about replacing locks because of that either. This certainly may be worth the extra bucks that go into purchasing keyless entry systems. If you have experienced a lot of lock changes because of lost or stolen keys, or even for other reasons, you should consider beefing up the security of your property with a keyless entry system.

Unfortunately, There Are a Few Drawbacks to Keyless Entry Systems
As with most things in life, there are pros and cons. Despite this fact, you shouldn’t be totally turned off from purchasing keyless entry systems. Instead, weigh the pros and cons to see which outweighs the other. Additionally, make sure that having a new security system will truly benefit you and will provide the security that you desire for your property.
So, what are the negatives? Here are a few.

1. They’re expensive.

Keyless entry tends to cost much more than your traditional locks. If you are accustomed to purchasing deadbolts and knob locks, the price of a keyless entry system may take you by surprise. But, many people may tell you that the price is totally worth it based on the amount of security they provide.

2. You have to have some knowledge of technology to operate them.

Although there are very simple systems, at some point you may need some technical knowledge to operate them. Whether it is installing the system, programming codes, reprogramming the system or some other function, be prepared to utilize your knowledge of technology. Thankfully, most of these systems have user manuals so you should be able to follow the instructions given.

Do you have any other questions about keyless entry systems? For more information, call Pro Newport News Locksmith in Newport News, VA.

How Access Control Can Benefit Your Business

Have you performed a security audit for your business recently? If not, you may not realize that you are in need of additional security. When you begin to consult with someone about your business security, you may want to inquire about access control security. This is the sort of security that will allow you to monitor your property remotely. You are able to see who comes in and out and the system will even record the day and time that someone enters and leaves. It is like having another set of eyes. If you own a business that receives a lot of traffic, it is a good idea to consider the benefits of having access control installed. These types of systems are often seen in hospitals, schools, government buildings, airport and other popular public places. Anywhere that there is sensitive material; you will usually find access control. This type of system is considered a high security system due to its ability to capture images in real-time.

Having access control also helps to limit your amount of liability. This makes it all worth the extra expense of having it installed. There is a lot of truth in the saying that you get what you pay for. Since thieves are becoming more skilled at compromising certain security measures, it is important that security is improved. Access control can be inconspicuously installed so that they do not even know whether it exists or not. Since they are so smart about getting in and out of businesses, it is in your best interest to determine the best way to prevent theft in your business. Certainly having an extra set of eyes will be a good option since it can help comprehend anyone who is stealing or breaking in. Despite what you might think, a locksmith can actually help by installing your access control systems for you. At Pro Newport News Locksmith in Newport News, Virginia, we have a team of qualified locksmiths who have received the necessary training to effectively install a variety of security features, including access control systems. If we have peaked your interest and you would like to know more about this type of security, contact our helpful associates today. However, in the meantime, we have decided to share additional information with you that we believe will be useful in helping you determine if this type of system is a good choice for you.

Access control enables your visitors and employees enter and exit your property more effectively. Since systems do not require keys, you don’t have the problem of lost keys or people taking time to locate their keys to gain access. Some access control systems use personal characteristics to gain entry. This is often in the form of a fingerprint or retinal recognition. Our locksmiths also install systems that only require a code in order to gain entry inside.

Once you have used an access control system, it is likely that you will see how beneficial this type of system is. It is a convenient and reliable way to monitor your business.

Below are additional features and benefits that are offered with the different types of access control systems:

No Duplication of Keys – Regular keys can easily be duplicated. No one knows this better than a burglar who has done this before. On the other hand, they also know how difficult it is to gain access through an access control system. Many of the systems we install require a fob key car or an electronic key, which is difficult for a burglar to duplicate. This minimizes your chances of a break-in. A thief would need some very specific high tech equipment to duplicate an electronic key. If they can find and get a hold of the equipment, there is so much red tape that they would have to go through that they likely wouldn’t even bother. This would simply be a waste of their time. The longer they take to figure out how to duplicate electronic keys and compromise this type of system, the more money they lose.

Convenient – What could be easier than simply swiping something in front of the keyhole? We don’t think anything is easier than doing this and just walking through the door. You have the ability to determine who can get in and out and when they will be able to do so. You are in control when you have access control installed. When you have temporary employees and you no longer want them to have access onto the property, you can deactivate their access. This is helpful even if the temporary employee forgets to return their temporary card. This also applies if you have to terminate the employment of a permanent employee; you can deactivate their access.

Tracking Visitors and Employees – While there are still some businesses that will have someone at the front to sign visitors and employees in and out, with access control, this is slowly becoming a thing of the past. Your access control system will do it all for you. Whenever someone enters or leaves, the system will automatically record this information. Therefore, there is no need to have someone to sign people in and out. You are even capable of pulling the recording whenever needed. The system does all the work that a human would do for you.

Quick and Simple Entry – Since keys are not necessary to gain entry, having access control gives you quick and simply entry into the business. All that is required is the swipe of a key card or an access code entered. This keeps the flow of traffic moving swiftly without backing up.

Remote Access – You can give someone access without physically being present. As long as they have the right code or you have given them a key fob, you don’t have to be there to let them in. The key fob or code is the only thing needed to gain entry.

WHY IT’S ESSENTIAL TO HAVE A GUN SAFE

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Follow the law. You must educate yourself on the details of the local laws in your state regarding weapon ownership. In most states, and in the District of Columbia, the law requires that your guns have to remain locked up to prevent access to children ~ in most cases even if you do not have kids of your own. You’ll likely be breaking the law if any child ever lays hands on a firearm that belongs to you. Penalties vary for allowing a child to handle your gun; but the fact is, you’ll probably be held accountable for negligent storage, regardless of whether or not a child gains access to your gun, or indeed uses your gun to cause a death or injury.

 

If you get a heavy-duty gun safe, you’ll keep thieves away very effectively. Otherwise, a burglar could steal it and use it during the commission of a crime, or perhaps even resell it. The unthinkable can happen: For example, a criminal might steal your gun, and then use it to hold up a convenience store. If that perpetrator shoots and kills somebody during that crime, then if you didn’t own a safe, the victim’s family would have the right to claim that your weapon was stored improperly, which means they could file a lawsuit against you. The wise choice is to store your weapons in a safe, because if your guns are ever stolen, you can prove that you initially took the proper measures to secure the weapons.

 

If a thief ever breaks into your home without doing any damage, if you cannot prove that there was a forced entry, then if you don’t have evidence to prove that you kept your guns locked in a safe, this would work against you if the robber later commits a crime using your gun, especially if the person is someone you know.

 

Maintain absolute safety. If you’re a gun owner, it’s vital to be responsible: Always safeguard your firearms. Don’t risk a dangerous circumstance or a grave situation, which could result if any of your weapons were to end up in the wrong hands.

 

A proper gun safe will keep your guns away from potential thieves efficiently, and, most importantly, away from children. The truth is: No one other than you, the owner ~ not friends, family members, teenagers, babysitters, children, house-sitters, care-givers, neighbors, and so on ~ should ever be able to have access to your weapons.

 

There’s actually no doubt: If you own a gun, it’s critical that at all times you safely maintain your weapons by storing them properly in a reliable gun safe. Access control is fundamental. Whether you own a gun for hunting, protection, skeet shooting, target practice, or work, you must suitably store your weapons.

 

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Fully insure your guns. Keeping your guns in a superior-quality safe may be the only way you’ll know for sure that your weapons are wholly insured. Protecting your weapons in a safe typically means that you can obtain a discount on your insurance premium. Find out: Read your renter’s or home or insurance policy thoroughly for the firearm coverage limitations and parameters. Your insurance company may compel you to keep your guns in a certified gun safe, and may even require you to install an alarm. Depending on how many guns you have, and what sort of weapons they are, ask about adding a rider that will expand your coverage. If you own a lot of guns, your insurance company’s safe certification rules may oblige you to keep your gun collection in more than one safe, to reduce the possibility of everything being stolen all at once. If you ever have to make an insurance claim, if you’re able to demonstrate that you took all the correct measures beforehand to protect your valuables, you’re more likely to be compensated for the loss.

 

Store your guns in style. Wherever you display your high-quality gun safe, it will certainly be attractive. A gun safe boasts gleaming hardware and a polished finish, and its impressive weight and size are outstanding.

 

Protect your investment. Some guns are replaceable or upgradeable. But vintage firearms are often irreplaceable, and they’re liable to have sentimental value for you. With the right gun safe, you’ll proficiently secure all your weapons.

 

With an excellent-quality safe, you’ll protect your other valuables, too. When you have a top-quality safe to keep your guns totally secure ~ and well-protected from theft, flood, and fire ~ you may as well include additional valuable items, too. Because a gun safe is sizeable, you’ll probably have room left for other significant items such as property deeds, passports, fine jewelry, stock certificates, tax records, birth certificates, collectibles, emergency cash, photographs, and so forth.

 

Protect your weapons from fire and flood. An exceptional-quality fire-rated and waterproof gun safe will give you optimal protection for your guns and valuables from fire or water damage.

 

You could save on your taxes. In some states, gun safes are exempt from sales tax. Furthermore, in some states, if you buy a gun safe, you’ll be eligible for a tax credit. A federal tax credit might also be available.

 

You’ll automatically have extra home protection. If you own a weapon for protection, of course you’ll want to be able to put your hands on your gun fast. Some manufacturers make their gun safes with locks that you can open in a few seconds. It’s imperative that you’re the only person who knows how to open it.

 

Take the correct precautions with your concealed-carry weapon. If you have a license to carry a concealed weapon, adhere to the legal requirements of your city and state. For instance, a portable gun safe is a smart idea for your car.

 

How do you choose the right gun safe for your needs? If you’re in Newport News, Virginia, and you want to find the gun safe that will fit all your requirements, consult with a dependable local company, such as Pro Newport News Locksmith, where the mobile safe specialists on staff possess the expertise to help you make well-informed decisions regarding your home security.

Article source here: WHY IT’S ESSENTIAL TO HAVE A GUN SAFE

Pro Newport News Locksmith: What to Do When Transponder Key is Lost

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Every day, we have so many things to keep track of, that things can get very confusing. Perhaps you are the type of person who likes to stay very organized, and you even keep a to-do list handy. Or maybe you prefer to “wing it” and make it a point to try to remember everything you need to do. But no matter which category you fall into in terms of organization, you can always end up victim to a lost key. Pro Newport News Locksmith in Newport News, VA frequently receives phone calls from locals who have lost their transponder key. Often times, people call in a state of panic, not knowing how to operate their vehicle. Luckily, there are automotive locksmiths all over the country who care and who can provide service when transponder keys go missing. This information has been put together for your convenience, so you can know all about transponder keys and what to do when they are missing!

After all is said and done, if you have done everything that you can to locate your transponder key, but it is nowhere to be found, then it is time to call an expert for help. In a state of panic, it can be difficult to remember to retrace your steps. But check on top of countertops, in the bathroom, or anywhere else you could have dropped your keys. Did you have your car key in your hand when you remembered you needed to switch laundry into the dryer? Perhaps the key is in a pile of clothes. Check everywhere you can think of…if you have already done this, read on to learn about the next steps to take.

The technical side of transponder key creation

Transponder keys were created as a form of convenience and better security. They are very technologically advanced and as such, can be confusing when it comes to replacement. When you are looking for help with transponder key replacement, you will need an expert who is able to cut the key blade to the proper configuration, and they will need to be able to program the key’s chip so that it is a match for the vehicle’s transponder system. If it sounds technical, that’s because it is. A dealership would be able to do this for you if you lost your transponder key, or of course, an auto locksmith would be able to help.

What you need

Here are some of the things that you will need if you opt to call a lock and security provider for help with transponder key replacement…

The chassis number for your vehicle. This will be located within your vehicle’s registration documents.

The chip code. Where is the chip code, you might ask? This is something that you should have gotten from your dealership when you bought the car. Don’t have it? Don’t worry. An expert will help you to figure this out.

Proof of ownership of the vehicle: Any professional will need to verify that your vehicle hasn’t been stolen. Have registration and identification documents ready to go. This will speed up the process for you.

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Now, call a locksmith to replace your key

When you are ready with all of the information that you need so a new transponder key can be made for your vehicle, call a locksmith. They will provide the most affordable solution. And here is where the information you gathered will come in handy. First, a lock and security provider will use their expertise to cut the key by utilizing your car’s chassis number. An auto locksmith might program the new key by means of the chip code provided, or they might need to reprogram the vehicle’s ECU unit. Sometimes, the entire transponder system needs to be modified. Again, only an expert will know how to do this.

But be sure to find a locksmith that you can trust.

Hiring a credible locksmith is important. You want your situation to be dealt with professionally. Luckily, you shouldn’t have a problem finding a lock and security provider that is available 24 hours a day, because obviously you won’t want to wait long to have a new transponder key. If you were waiting to go to your dealership, then you would have to wait until it is convenient for them and you would have to be available during standard business hours, most likely. But with a lock and security provider, you get a professional who is available when it works with your busy schedule. Here are some key things to look for when hiring a locksmith for automotive services:

• Make sure they have licensing and insurance. It’s easy for any random person to log onto Craigslist and claim to be a professional locksmith. They’ll boast low prices, but that’s because the work won’t be worth paying a reasonable amount. Check to make sure you are hiring someone who has undergone the proper training and has obtained the appropriate paperwork to do their job. This will protect you, in the event that anything goes wrong.
• Look at the Better Business Bureau for relevant feedback and company scores.
• Ask around for referrals. The best source just happens to be the people you already know you can trust. See if anyone in your social circle can recommend a specific locksmith.
• Take advantage of a free consultation once you have found a lock and security provider. Ask them any questions that you have. Request a price quote prior to the job being started.

A lost transponder key is certainly a problem, but it is not one that can’t be solved fast. As long as you know where to turn to, you will surely get the results that you desire. If you’re in Newport News, you know who to call. But if you are anywhere else, just do an online search or as mentioned, ask your friends and anyone you can trust if they recommend an automotive locksmith for transponder key programming, duplication and other services.

Article source here: Pro Newport News Locksmith: What to Do When Transponder Key is Lost

Protecting Your Home When Out of Town

Homeowners have to be vigilant in keeping out burglars. Even if you’ve never had a break in before, it doesn’t mean that this can’t happen to you. If you feel as though you’ve done all that you can do to prevent an intrusion, but you still manage to experience a break-in, perhaps there are some practical things you can do to avoid a break-in. When homes are broken into, it is usually when homeowners are out of town. When you are away from home for an extended amount of tim

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e, you give a thief all that they need, time and opportunity. At Pro Newport News Locksmith, we can offer you better home security features but we can also tell you about some of the most practical and effective ways to avoid a home invasion when you are out of town.

 

1. Lock Up

This is something that many people laugh at when the read but the truth of the matter is that many homeowners make it easy for someone to come into their home because they do not double check to make sure that every window and door is locked before they leave their home. If you have checked your doors, you might want to also check your windows. There is a chance that someone else in the home has opened up a window, without your knowledge, and failed to lock it again. Since you wouldn’t have known this, it makes sense to also check your windows and doors before heading out of town.

 

2. Don’t Post on Social Media

There is absolutely nothing wrong with posting your travel picture on social media but consider exactly when you are doing this and the information that you are providing to others. When you announce your plans of going on vacation and you are posting pictures, while you are away, you’re inviting thieves into your home. They can see from your postings that you’re not at home. This gives them an open invitation to come on over and get what you want. Refrain from posting your travel plans online and just wait until after you’ve returned to post pictures. It is a necessary precaution to take if you do not wish to experience a break-in.

 

3. Have an Alarm Installed

Most new apartment buildings have an alarm system installed in the apartments. It is up to the tenant to have the alarm service turned on. We would strongly suggest that you do this in order to scare off a would-be intruder when you’re away from home. If you live in a house and don’t have an alarm system, you should invest in one today. They offer you the level of protection you need and give you peace-of-mind when you’re out of town. When the alarm sounds, it often scares off the intruder. Even if you don’t have a the alarm system monitored, it will draw attention to the fact that someone is trying to get inside your home and someone can then contact the proper authorities. If they alarm system is connected to your mobile device, you can then contact the police to ask them to check things out for you.

 

4. Mail & Package Deliveries

What would you assume if you rode by a home and you noticed mail piled up in the mailbox and packages sitting on the front? Most people would conclude that nobody is home. This is the same thing that a thief would assume. It is in your best interest to either have your mail held at the post office or have someone pick it up from your mailbox every couple of days so that it doesn’t pile up. The same is true of packages left on your porch or in front of your apartment door. You can request that the courier keep them and retrieve them upon your return. Most courier services do not have a problem doing this for you. However, they may charge you a fee if the package is left their for too long.

 

5. Get a House Sitter

When people experience multiple break-ins, they see the value in having someone at their home when they are away. This way, a thief is less likely to attempt to break-in. This tends to be the case when there is someone home. The thief fears that they will be exposed and prosecuted. This is not a chance that most people are willing to take. Therefore; they will avoid your home and go to the home where they know for certain that there is no one home.

 

6. Install Deadbolt Locks

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Since deadbolt locks are the most durable locks offered to you, make sure you have them installed on every entryway door. This maximizes your home security and makes it more difficult for a thief to compromise the lock. If you do not already have them installed, get them installed as quickly as possible and improve the chances of your home avoiding a break-in.

 

7. Install Outdoor Lights

Shine a light on the problem. If you don’t have bright lights around your home, it is easier for a burglar to hide out and wait for you to leave. Instead of allowing them to lurk in the dark, why not have lights installed around your home to shine a light on a possible intruder. If there are too many lights on your home, an intruder will likely pursue a house with fewer lights or no lights.

 

We realize that while these may be very practical suggestions, many people do not implement them. It has been proven that by heeding the above suggestions, you’ll be able to minimize your chances of a home invasion. Don’t wait until someone has broken into your home and stolen your valuables before you do something. The key is to prevent a break-in while you are away. Do yourself a favor and get busy doing what needs to be done so that you can avoid a burglary at your home.

 

Article source here: Protecting Your Home When Out of Town

IGNITION CYLINDER PROBLEMS – WHAT TO DO ABOUT THEM!

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Are you experiencing problems with your car’s ignition cylinder? Did you plan on running an errand or going for a drive but nothing happened when you turned the ignition key? This has to be one of the most frustrating aspects of driving! If you are like most, ignitions go unthought-of most of the time. Instead, we think of our destination, or our fellow passenger, or what we are having for lunch; anything! We fully expect to turn the key and to hear that familiar engine turn-over sound, and off we go!

Pro Newport News Locksmith often gets calls for automotive locksmith needs and at or near the top of the list are ignition cylinder problems. That’s why we’ve made this post, so our readers will better know what to do the next time they experience issues with their car’s ignition cylinder.

Ignitions are getting more complicated!

Yes, it’s true; ignition systems are getting more advanced, and you know what they say about more features; there are more parts to break down! Originally, ignition cylinders were built to supply power to your car’s engine. Nowadays they still do that, but power is also supplied to other components like windshield wipers, radio, GPS, power seats, disc player, power windows, headlights, air conditioner, heaters and more. We depend on our ignitions for a lot and we really feel the panic when they don’t work! So before you get your auto mechanic, car dealer or locksmith on speed dial, consider these tips by our Newport News, VA locksmith experts, and who knows? You might just save yourself a service call!

The importance of the right gear!

This one is a “doozy” because it happens so often; people try and start their cars in the wrong gear! In order to get your car’s ignition cylinder to start, you need to be in the PARK gear; nothing else; not NEUTRAL; not DRIVE; only PARK! Not only will your transponder key not turn, the engine won’t even begin to turn over. Actually, being in the wrong gear can be deadly. Every year people are injured or even killed because their vehicle rolled forward or backward and hit them. This is due to being in the wrong gear. It’s easy to do. In today’s busy world we are madly going from one errand to the next. It’s easy to “think” that you put the car in gear when you really didn’t.

Steering wheel is locked

Sometimes, when you lean too hard on the steering wheel, it locks up. When this happens, your transponder key won’t be able to start the ignition. Don’t let this panic you. Just apply a little pressure on the steering wheel until it moves back and forth and releases your key. So many times, this locking up action is confused with ignition cylinder problems when it really isn’t.

Check your battery

Newport News ignition changeout locksmith

Another culprit that is often mistaken for ignition cylinder problems is your car’s battery. If the battery is dead, the car won’t start and many confuse one problem for the other. If your vehicle’s engine won’t turn over, try testing for battery power. The most common way is to see how your dashboard lights are working. You can also try the radio, power windows, headlights or windshield wipers. If they work, the battery is fine. If you hear a series of fast clicking sounds, your starter switch is the problem. It’s always a good idea when “working” on your car to put the emergency brake on. With everything you are trying to do and all that is on your mind, it is easy to let the car roll forward or backward and this could be dangerous not only to you but to others.

Is the key stuck?

Sometimes, the ignition key gets stuck in the cylinder. This can happen when the wrong key is used by mistake and also when the right key is used but the ignition is already in the ON position. Try lightly tapping the key and see if it is released but be careful not to break it! You don’t want to compound your problems by suddenly needing broken off key extraction service, too. If you did use the right key, and you are able to turn the ignition to the off position, remove it completely and re-insert it. The ignition cylinder should work now.

Be careful getting help!

Getting help for your car’s ignition cylinder is not a bad idea but be careful where that help comes from. Sometimes friends and family members mean well but they can do more harm than good if they don’t know what they are doing. There are a lot of would-be car mechanics in the world and chances are that you know some. Keep in mind that after the dust settles it is still your car and the repair bills are still up to you. If someone you know really does have a reasonable background in car mechanics then by all means, give them a call – just be selective!

Search the web

The second biggest search engine on the planet is YouTube and there are thousands of videos on car repair, ignition problems and the like. If you have the time and the inclination, you can watch some of these and see if they help. Each person is different and has different time constraints. To most, their time is very valuable and if you need your car’s ignition cylinder to work like new again, the do-it-yourself method just won’t cut it.

Call a locksmith!

Our advice is to rely on the expertise of a licensed, bonded and insured Newport News, VA locksmith expert. By doing so, you get the advantage of their expertise along with their tools, training, and 24-hour availability. If you are a busy person or if others depend on you, make the most of your resources and call on real lock professionals to help you out. After all, it is your car’s ignition cylinder we are talking about, and if that doesn’t work, you are not driving anywhere!

Article source here: IGNITION CYLINDER PROBLEMS – WHAT TO DO ABOUT THEM!