FAQ

At FC Locksmith, we offer a wide range of locksmith services that take security extremely seriously, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We offer lock installation and repair, safe opening and installation, rekeying services, garage door services, auto services, general security upgrades and more.

We can even offer expert consultation on the spot, pointing out what you should consider in order to avoid similar issues in the future. Whether you’re a home, business or car owner, and need the assistance of a professional locksmith – we’re able to reach your location in no time and solve any security related problem that arises.

Yes! What many people do not know about keys is that many keys are really just numerical combinations that are grooved in a type of code into metal. Each ridge represents a number, and that number is what is able to open the key. As a result, knowing the number can allow the locksmith to create a key, even without the initial key nearby. Often keys in a master key system are created in this manner, using codes to create each individual key.

However, it should be noted that by law you must require proof that you are allowed to create the key in question. You cannot get a locksmith’s services without proof that the key you are creating belongs to something in your ownership. This is done for your security, as without this proof anyone could copy anyone’s key as long as they know how to read the number.

Keys come in many different shapes and sizes, and the type of key affects how the lock is opened. Laser cut keys are a different style of automobile key, and its name does not refer to the cutting process. If you look at a standard key (like a door key, for example) you’ll notice that the cuts are on the bottom. Most car keys go a step further and have the cuts on both the top and the bottom. But laser cut keys take it even further – these keys have cuts (called “millings”) that go along the side of the key.

This style of cut key was most commonly used by some of the elite car manufacturers, and provides an added amount of security that makes it harder for others to create new keys or pick the locks that use these types of keys.

Car security is much different than home security. Because car theft has been so common in recent decades, automobile manufacturers have turned to a different type of key – a key that doesn’t just require the right notches and cuts. That key is called a transponder key.

Transponder keys work electronically. Inside of the key there is a fixed code. That code sends a signal to the automobile that tells it that you are using the correct key. Only if the car receives that signal will it turn on using the key, ensuring that the car is not able to be operated by incorrect keys or theft. If the key is not recognized by the system, the car’s “immobilizer” will kick in, and you will be unable to operate your car. That is why it takes special tools and knowledge to create new keys for cars, because the entire system has to be adjusted to handle a new code/key.

Absolutely. At FC Locksmith, we pride ourselves on having emergency services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to those that need immediate locksmith assistance. But we understand that not every situations calls for an emergency service provider. If you are in need of security upgrades or installation, or you simply need someone to help you with a non-emergency locksmith service, we’re happy to schedule an appointment at a time that meets your schedule.

Call us today for any of your security or locksmith needs. We’re happy to discuss our services with you, find a time that works for your busy schedule, and ensure that the job is done correctly. Also, don’t forget to keep our number on hand in the event that you do need an emergency locksmith provider.

At FC Locksmith, one of the most common questions we receive is about pricing. Luckily, we offer some of the most competitive pricing in the business, because when you need an update in your security, we want to make sure that you are able to afford it.

Every lock is different, and the work that needs to be completed depends largely on the type of lock and the amount of work that needs to be done. That said, we try to make our prices as low cost as possible. If you simply need a lock rekeyed, the cost is around $25 to $50 depending on the work involved. If you need a lock completely replaced, the costs depend on the type of lock, ranging anywhere from $30 to $250 for high security locks.

We’re happy to give you an estimate before starting on your lock change. Please do your best to describe the type of lock and the type of work you need completed, and our experts will give you an estimate. If our service experts arrive and find the job is a different degree of difficulty than anticipated, we’ll explain the reasons why before you pay. You can find out more on our Prices and Costs page.

There is no single tool that can stop potential criminals. In the end, it’s a combination of security measures that ensures you’re able to keep yourself and your property safe. Alarm systems are a good start, as they certainly scare away many potential thieves and are able to notify you and the authorities if someone tries to break into your home.

But you also need to have additional security measures as well, such as sturdy locks, protection for the weak spots of your home, and more. Having different types of security in place is what will deter most burglars from wanting to enter your home. Alarm systems are great, but physical protection (keys, locks, etc.,) is also very important.

Absolutely, however the type of car will determine how long the process will take. Older car models use a simple key that can easily be copied/created to help your car run, and that can be taken care of in minutes. On the other hand – the newer car models tend to have keys that are equipped with their own security measures that make the process a bit longer.

Many keys now have microchips that are connected specifically to your car, with their own codes that need to copied over in order for the car to work properly. These keys are excellent for your security, but they do take longer to create and may result in a higher fee. We’ll give you an estimate of both time and cost before we begin to make sure you know what to expect.

When it comes to your security, you need to find a locksmith that will get there fast. When you’ve locked yourself out of your home or car or have recently suffered a break-in, every minute can feel like an eternity.

At FC Locksmith, we understand how stressful that time can be, so we do our best to make sure that we have a locksmith to your area within 25 to 30 minutes of your initial call. On occasion we may need more time depending on your location and service needs, but if so we’ll let you know what time you can expect us to arrive.

FC Locksmith provides a number of different services to homeowners, commercial properties, rental properties, car owners and more. We help retrieve lost keys, install and replace security services, offer rekeying services, fix broken locks, copy keys, open and repair safes, repair garage doors, and provide consultations about your security needs.

FC Locksmith also offers 24 hour support for nearly all of its locksmith services, and has experts that are able to supply you with any help you need. If you need something key, lock, safe, or security related, FC Locksmith has the tools and expertise to solve the problem for you.

Keys are only effective if they’re in your possession. The more people that have had access to your keys, the more at risk you are for breaches of security, as any number of people could have had access to your key in the past.

As soon as you move into a new place, and as long as you are legally allowed to do so, you should have new keys made or new locks installed. You never know who had your keys beforehand or when the locks with last changed, and if you don’t rekey your lock, someone else may have a spare key and be able to enter your residence or place of business.

Many keys are marked with a stamp that says “Do Not Duplicate” or some variation. These keys are often part of a larger master key system with a different owner than the person handling the key (such as a resident’s key to a specific apartment within a larger apartment complex).

By law, these keys cannot be duplicated without expressed, written consent on company letterhead by the organization that is requesting a key. Your locksmith reserves the right to refuse to copy any key with or without the proper authorization when the key does not allow duplication.