Apart from the cost and readiness, there are many other factors when it comes to finding an auto locksmith Montreal for your car. Most people choose a service depending on a couple of points. And to be honest, they are good enough. But nowadays, auto locksmiths provide several services that you must be updated about in order to avail different facilities. Also, choosing an incorrect locksmith means you’re losing possible savings. Auto locksmiths provide many services for which your car dealer may charge abnormally. These services you can’t avail of at any key-cutting shops. Making a duplicate transponder key set is one such example. So you must choose the right service provider and here is the basic checklist that you should keep in handy while looking for a genuine car locksmith.
- Locality – This is perhaps the #1 point when it comes to hiring a locksmith for your car. For your car, you should always go local instead of going to a national company. Such automotive locksmith services usually deal with clients in their locality. A local locksmith is likely to give special offers to customers from neighboring cities and towns. Also, a local man will always turn up promptly. On the other hand, you may have to pay a call-out charge if the service provider is coming from a distance.
- Pricing – If the service provider has a website, they must have mentioned their pricing packages on their site. Check out if there are any hidden charges like additional travel charges. Check the list of charges of the auto locksmiths that offer replacement keys (the basic service). If you have time in hand, then go for a quick comparison with 2-3 more locksmiths.
- Emergency service – Not all locksmith service providers offer round-the-clock service. You should choose a locksmith that is available 24/7. Getting locked out of the car is quite frustrating especially if this happens in the wee hours. And there the need to hire an emergency car locksmith comes into play. So, while looking for a service, check their response timing, call-out charges (if any), service area, and working hours.
- Guarantee and warranty – A truly professional service provider should be proud of their job. They are likely to offer a warranty for their job. Check the website of the auto locksmiths you have primarily chosen and see what they say about their warranty option. Check if the company offers a warranty on locks and ignition. A professional locksmith should be able to unlock a car door without causing any damage to the car or existing locks. But in the worst-case scenario, if they fail to do so and cause some scratches on the car’s body, check if they have proper liability insurance to cover your damage.
- The comprehensiveness of the service – A dedicated car locksmith should offer a number of services. Auto locksmiths help people locked out of the car. They also provide lock repairing service and ignition replacements. They make duplicate keys as well.
- Difficult key cutting – Nowadays, there are several car keys like transponder keys, smart keys, Tibbe keys, and laser car keys. An efficient professional can cut even the most difficult keys. If you’re an owner of a Jaguar or Ford, you surely know about Tibbe keys. Apart from that, modern cars have transponder keys. Your primarily chosen locksmith should have experience of working with your car. They should be knowledgeable about the latest techniques and have the ability to serve any kind of car.
- Experience – New business owners are less likely to be experienced. But a well-established professional is very likely to be experienced. With the help of the Internet, you can easily find out about the reputation of any business with just a few mouse clicks. Locksmith services that have been in the business for years are likely to be an experienced player in the industry. This is even better if the company has a low staff turnover and skilled workers.
- License and certification – Your chosen locksmith should have due licenses. They should be trustworthy. Since they will have to break into the car, the requirement of trustworthiness is obviously understandable. Check their certifications and licensing before you proceed further. Also, check if they provide 24 hour lockout service.
The greatest qualities of a car locksmith are pricing, efficiency, fast response time, and customer service. You can use the provided checklist to get help finding the right auto locksmith for your car.
