Searching for an honest automotive locksmith can be a really difficult exercise. Even though there has been a rapid increase in the number of locksmiths many of them are not genuine (no certification) and those that do have a certification have no experience. This is what can make hiring a really good locksmith difficult, so one of the best ways to end up with a really good automotive locksmith is to get some industry related information.
Then shortlist the ones which have been around for a long time and start with a small job prior to handing over something of significance. This way if they do make a mistake or mess up the job you don’t lose as much.
Carry out extensive research
The growing number of automotive locksmiths and also ones that double as regular locksmiths merits that you be careful and conduct extensive research. There are a number of places you can conduct this research both online and offline. However, you will obviously find that the internet is a lot easier but depending on where you live what you find on the internet may not be enough.
Using any leading search engine search for automotive locksmiths in your area, then read through their website to establish exactly how long they have been around and what types of locks and services they specialize in offering. Also check forums and blogs where people may talk about the automotive locksmith they used and were satisfied with or were not satisfied with. Automotive forums can be a great help because you can also get recommendations from here too.
Ask people you know
A good way to find a trustworthy automotive locksmith is to ask people for recommendations. People who have gotten their locks fixed should be able to point you in the right direction. This is one of the best ways to find a good locksmith that you can trust. However, your friend’s word alone does not mean that the automotive locksmith will be able to fix the locks of your particular car.
This is something that you’ll need to speak to the locksmith about in person, especially if your car has one of those newer electronic locks.
Verify the automotive locksmith’s business
Many of the dishonest automotive locksmiths often operate their businesses from bogus addresses. This is usually done in order to convince clients that they are based locally which increases their chances of being hired. This is why it is important to verify their address by checking with the local authorities and local addresses or visit their website to check if they are legitimate.
This happens to be one of the best ways to eliminate any and all dishonest automotive locksmiths on your list. Ideally, you should choose a locksmith who is really based locally i.e. in your city.
He needs to be insured
Like regular locksmiths automotive locksmiths also need to be insured, this is why you should outright ask a locksmith if they have insurance. There is always a chance that a vehicle owner will incur some unfortunate damage to their property because of a mistake made by the locksmith. This is why when you hire a locksmith you can be sure of the compensation in the case of any damages.
A locksmith who is insured means is sure and confident in the services that he provides, plus it also shows that they are established. Also, any damage done to your vehicle by a locksmith who is insured means that you stand a chance of getting some money back or at least the damage fixed.
Read reviews and testimonials
Another good way to find an car locksmith who is really good is to read testimonials and reviews which have been left behind by people who have hired a locksmith that you want to hire. This can help you determine both the strong points about the locksmith and also shed some light on his or her short comings.
According to leading Australian locksmith Marco Automotive Locksmiths “it is important that people who are hiring an automotive locksmith take their time to gain and learn as much as they can about the locksmith they want to hire. That said if you get many good recommendations from close friends and family members it means that the locksmith is really good”.
Citations:
- Auto Locksmith – Locked out, Lost or Broken Car Keys?
Mark is one of the leading experts on automotive locks and electronic systems. He has been a locksmith for over a decade and has a degree in electronics and a certificate in automotive engineering. Even though he runs one of the most successful automotive locksmith businesses in Australia he also writes extensively about it.