No one thinks it will happen to them, but it's a common problem. You're out and about and go to unlock your car, only to realize that the keys are inside the car. Perhaps they are tauntingly placed right on the driver's seat, or maybe they are dangling in the ignition. Whatever the case may be, your first thought maybe one of panic. We all have places to go and people to meet, and getting locked out of your car can really throw a wrench into your plans.

Desperate to get into your car, you do what many people do: you pull out your phone and start searching online for an emergency locksmith. But what most people don't realize is that by this point, they have already fallen for a common scheme. Here at TrustDALE, we have busted some of these locksmith schemes. At the top of your Google search results, you find several different emergency lockout services. What consumers don't know is that all of these services are actually owned by the same locksmiths. And they are all trained to take you for as much cash as they can.

When you call a locksmith service you find online, you may get a service representative who talks fast, quotes a low price, and works to schedule service and get you off the phone as quickly as possible. But when a technician arrives, they quickly retrieve your keys and then quote you a different, much higher price. All this time, they are in possession of your car keys. Desperate to get on their way, many drivers simply pay the fee. But if you ask questions, you will quickly find that you are getting the ultimate runaround. The locksmiths can't answer your questions, and they may not even recognize the name of the service you called. But once they are holding your keys, they have all the power, and they won't return them until you pay up. We have even heard of locksmiths who threaten to lock the keys back in the vehicle if the driver won't pay up.

Don't let this happen to you. There is a better way.

Finding a Reliable Emergency Locksmith

The most important thing you can do to protect yourself from this kind of locksmith ripoff is to be prepared. It's always a good idea to keep a first aid kit in your car, as well as jumper cables and the tools to change a tire. And of course you carry insurance. But most drivers aren't prepared for a lockout, even though it's simple to do. All you need is the name and number of a reliable emergency locksmith. You can keep it as a contact in your phone or even on a card in your glove compartment. Then you won't be forced to rely on a blind online search in the panic of an emergency.

Right now, while you have the time and presence of mind to do it, take down the contact information of a reliable TrustDALE certified locksmith. Keep it handy, so you can find a locksmith you can trust when you don't have time to waste. A reliable TrustDALE certified locksmith will give you a fair price with excellent customer service. How can we be so sure? Because every TrustDALE business goes through Dale's seven-point investigative review process to ensure that they meet the highest standards. In fact, Dale won't certify a business that he wouldn't use himself. So take the time now to find a reliable locksmith and avoid trouble when you're in an emergency.

What Else a TrustDALE Locksmith Can Do

Getting you into your car when you're locked out is undoubtedly important. But a reliable TrustDALE certified locksmith can do so much more. Your vehicle isn't the only place you can get locked out. Have you ever left the house and locked the door behind you, only to realize your keys are inside? It can be a terrible feeling to realize that you are stuck outside of your home with no way back in. You may try a side door or a window, but as a responsible homeowner, you've secured those entrances. Your only hope is to call a locksmith. Now is not the time to fool around with an unknown locksmith. Instead, call a TrustDALE certified locksmith who can get you back into your home in no time. A trusted locksmith can get you into your home quickly and for a reasonable fee. You'll also get prompt, professional service you can feel good about.

Non-Emergency Locksmith Services

Of course, a lockout is not the only time to call a locksmith. There are plenty of occasions to repair or upgrade your locks. And when the occasion arises, you know who to call.

Have you just moved into a new home? A trusted locksmith can help you secure your new dwelling. It's a big moment when the realtor hands you the keys to your new house, but are you sure those are the only keys? The previous owners may have given out many copies of the key. While the sellers may have given up their keys, what about their family and friends? And then there's the housecleaner, pool technician, pet sitter, and countless other keys that may be floating around out there. If you want your home to be safe from intrusion, your best bet is to rekey the locks. It's usually a quick and straightforward service, and a trusted locksmith can usually get it done in a single visit.

Another time to hire a locksmith is when you notice that a lock or door handle is loose. After many years in your home (or after buying an older home), you may find that not every lock is entirely secure. That leaves an opening for intruders. A reliable locksmith can repair most locks and replace a lock that is too far gone to repair. If you have an older home, your locks may simply be outdated. Criminals have the latest lockpicking techniques, and if your locks aren't keeping up, your home and your family could be in danger. A TrustDALE certified locksmith can help update your locks to more secure hardware that keeps unwanted visitors from getting into your home.

If you've been in your home for a while or if you've purchased an older home, your security may be a patchwork of locks installed at different times, each with its own key. If your keyring looks like you're on the maintenance staff at an apartment complex, it's time to call a locksmith. They can rekey your locks and reduce your key collection to just one or two keys that will secure your entire home.

Whether you need emergency service, new locks, or rekeying, a TrustDALE certified locksmith is there for you.

dales-book
Dale's New Book:
Don't Get Scammed: Get Smart!
dales-book

SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS