As such, if your company has a commercial fleet of vehicles, it’s important to do everything in your power to protect them. Here are some ways to better keep your commercial vehicles safe, and secure.

Consistent Maintenance

Regular maintenance, and repair checks do more to protect your commercial vehicles than you might think. For one, you can ensure all security features are functioning correctly. But you also make sure your vehicles are operating normally in general, which helps prevent them from breaking down and stranding your employees while they’re on the road. Consider hiring a locksmith to regularly inspect and repair locks, alarm systems, and other security components so your fleet remains in optimal condition.

Properly Installed Mechanisms

Did you know that a locksmith can help with installing locks, and ignitions? Not only can they help you with upgrades, but they can inspect mechanisms to ensure they’re working properly, and efficiently as possible. If you’ve experienced frequent issues with locks, ignitions or another security-related features, consider having a locksmith install a new version—or at least inspect and be sure that all are installed properly. Making sure these mechanisms are installed right the first time limits the number of potential issues you may experience down the road.

GPS Tracking

Do you know where your commercial vehicles are at all times? If not, you could be in for a difficult and confusing situation. However, installing GPS tracking devices on your fleet gives you tracking capabilities that are paramount in the unfortunate event of a theft. Chances of recovery also increase with some form of GPS tracking. The good news is that there are a variety of solutions in this area, from individual trackers to security upgrades that come with GPS tracking as a feature. Many even let you download an app, and track cars from the convenience of your smartphone.

New Keys, Locks or Alarms

Your biggest deterrents to thieves, and unauthorized access are your keys, locks, and alarms. It’s important to schedule regular rekeying services, especially if you experience high employee turnover or live in an area with high crime rates. Locks can also break or wear down over time, so adding new locks may be necessary on occasion. Finally, state-of-the-art alarm systems are available that are designed specifically for commercial vehicles. These systems can detect intrusion attempts, and alert both the vehicle driver and law enforcement, providing added security, and peace of mind for business owners.

A Partnership with a Locksmith

Whether an employee locks the keys inside the vehicle or you simply need maintenance, new security products or regular inspections, a professional automotive locksmith can be a valuable partner. A-1 Locksmith, for example, works with dozens of businesses in Dallas-Fort Worth that own commercial fleets that must be protected, and secured. If you experience a time-sensitive security situation, you don’t want to be searching for, someone who can help—which is just one of the reasons why having the contact info for a locksmith you trust is a great benefit.

Secure Parking

Another way you can protect your commercial vehicles is with a secure parking lot or facility. Make sure these areas have proper lighting and consider utilizing a gate or dedicated parking spaces equipped with surveillance cameras. A locksmith can even help here by assessing your parking facilities, and recommending additional security measures to enhance protection. 

Proper Employee Training 

Employee education is another tool that can keep cars secure. By educating your team on the importance of vehicle security, and proper usage of security features, you minimize risk. Consider implementing protocols for vehicle keys, which includes control measures that prevent unwanted duplication. Training programs are a great way to reinforce security best practices within your organization.

Insurance Coverage

At the end of the day, things can still happen to your commercial vehicles, even if you take every security precaution in the world. But you can still protect your investments, and prevent heavy losses by ensuring vehicles are adequately insured against theft, vandalism and other potential risks. Be sure to review your insurance policies regularly to confirm coverage levels, and make adjustments as necessary. A-1 Locksmith has worked closely with insurance providers to offer comprehensive security solutions tailored to the specific needs of our clients. Furthermore, you may get a discount on insurance if you have the right security systems in place.

These are just a few tips for protecting commercial vehicles. To get more ideas or schedule a security audit for your commercial facility, contact A-1 Locksmith today, and we’ll be happy to show you why we’re one of the top automotive locksmiths in Dallas-Fort Worth.

As an automotive locksmith that has helped thousands of people regain access to their vehicles, we know this tends to happen in certain places more than others. Here are four places where you need to be especially thoughtful about your keys:

1. Home

Believe it or not, this is one of the most common places people lock keys in their cars. This is because we spend most of our lives leaving home, and coming back. Whether your mind is preoccupied with what went on during your day or your children are playing around with the car while it’s in the garage, it’s easier than you think for your doors to inadvertently lock while the keys are inside. Some ways to avoid this include making sure your keys are in the same spot of your home, or investing in a smart key fob that won’t let the vehicle doors lock while it’s inside.

2. Work

Next, the place most of us spend our second-greatest amount of time: work. Typically, people go to work five days a week and often take lunch breaks, so there are a lot of opportunities for this to happen. But one of the biggest reasons this happens is because we have work on our minds or are carrying things we need for work (e.g., briefcases, lunch). Adding a reminder to your phone or computer is one way to potentially mitigate the risk of locking keys in your car at work.

3. While Shopping

Shopping centers are another standard location for car lockouts. From grocery stores, and malls to big-box retailers, these places usually involve carrying bags back to your automobile. This leaves them prone to slipping—or you forgetting about them entirely. Or, if you have a trunk, you might put all your bags, and the keys inside the trunk and close it. Either way, having an auto locksmith you trust is invaluable to meet you at the store, and unlock your car.

4. On the Road

Finally, it’s not uncommon to lock keys in your car while on a road trip or if you’re having car troubles on the side of the road. These situations aren’t part of our routines, so our minds can get distracted, and we make a mistake with our keys. A-1 Locksmith has provided emergency, and mobile locksmith services time, and time again for situations like this.

Wherever you’ve locked your keys in your car in Dallas-Fort Worth, A-1 Locksmith is here to provide the best auto lockout services you’ll find. Contact us today if this ever happens to you.

Whether you’re interested in home, business or automotive security, we’re your, solution in Dallas-Fort Worth. Let’s go on a quick tour of our new website to show you around.

Home Page / Navigation Menu

Helping you find info quickly is a top goal of our new website, which is why our navigation menu has been condensed to our main three areas of locksmithing (residential, commercial, automotive), as well as locations, about our company, and our phone number. We’ve also added links at the top for quickly getting emergency locksmith information, finding a store near you and shopping online. Other elements of our home page include services, reviews, and more.

Online Shopping

You’ll now be able to shop a variety of gun safes, home safes, and safe accessories directly from our website. We have a variety of models, and a wide selection of safe styles available from brands like Browning, Liberty, American Security, and Champion. Financing is available, and you can find features, specifications, and other details about our online products. Of course, you’re still free to view and purchase safes in any of our DFW-area locations.

Residential Locksmith Pages

From lockouts to rekeying your home, and security systems, we have all your residential locksmith needs covered. Some of the links you’ll find on our website related to residential locksmith services in Dallas-Fort Worth include:

• Residential Lockouts
• Keys, and Key Duplications
• Lock Repairs, and Installs
• New Locks, and Rekeys
• Safe Delivery, and Installations

Commercial Locksmith Pages

Whether your business has a single location or many, we can help you protect it with commercial locksmith services in Dallas-Fort Worth, such as:

• Access Control Systems
• Video and Intercom Systems
• Doors, and Hardware
• Security Systems, and Cameras
• Master Key Systems
• Deposit and Cash Safes

Automotive Locksmith Pages

Your car dealer isn’t the only one who can help with automotive needs like lost keys, key fob replacement and more. Here are some of the automotive locksmith services we offer in Dallas-Fort Worth:

• Key duplication and replacement
• Fob and remote services
• Other security improvements

Locations Page

We’ve expanded our store, and mobile locations pages as well, with phone calls, and finding a store just a click away. This section of the navigation menu includes our locations in Dallas County, and Collin County, as well as mobile service areas like Downtown Dallas, Park Cities, Garland, Irving, Mesquite, McKinney, and The Colony.

About Us Page

Finally, if you want to get to know us as a company, work with us, or check out our Security Tips Blog, the About section is where you want to be. Learn our story, get your questions answered, and quickly find the contact information you need.

Whatever your locksmith needs in Dallas-Fort Worth, you can trust A-1 Locksmith to handle it with professionalism and care. Contact us today for a no-obligation quote.

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In fact, more car manufacturers are embracing the benefits of remote technology as it has improved, and become more popular. More, and more, they are crafting vehicles with key fobs that can unlock vehicles remotely.

But dealerships don’t want you to know too much about your options. Let’s discuss what you need to know, whether it’s legal to make a new key fob without the dealer’s permission and whether you can use an auto locksmith to create or duplicate a key fob. 

What You Need to Know About Key Fobs

With a key fob, the owner can simply press a button to open the door, and many have a feature that lets you press a button remotely to start the car.

Unfortunately, if a car owner misplaces his or her key fob, or wants to make an extra copy, the dealership may claim that they have proprietary rights over the device. As such, only they can make a copy, and program it, which comes with an absurd fee. 

While creating a new key fob—as well as programming it to work with your car—may require the assistance of a professional, a skilled locksmith can aid you with this effort for less money, and without requiring you to head back to the dealership for help.

Is It Legal to Make A New Key Fob?

First off, is this even legal? Some dealers may assert that creating a new key fob is against the law if this task is not performed by a licensed operator. While this may be the case with a leased or rented car, it is within your rights to make as many copies as you would like with a vehicle you completely own. 

Can You Use a Locksmith for a Key Fob?

Getting a key fob programmed to operate with your car is not an extensive task. While you should not attempt to make a copy yourself, a professional locksmith can help you create a new key fob in relatively short order.

If you have lost the key fob to your new car, or you would like a new one made to give to a friend or a family member, don’t head back to the dealership. Instead, reach out to the auto security professionals at A-1 Locksmith today. We have experience programming all types of key fobs, and we have been offering our expertise to residents of DFW for more than 65 years. Our A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau speaks volumes.

Call us today at (972) 284-7500 to learn how we can help you with your car keys, and key fobs.

“If ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” That’s the attitude many of us have in life, which is fair. After all, most of us are trying to save time, and money where we can and want to maximize our investments in the equipment, tools, and devices we use daily.

The truth is, making a change with the items you use most often can make your life easier in the short run and even help you save money in the long run. Your car key is one such change. Should you stick with a traditional key or upgrade to a push-start version? Let’s discuss.

Traditional Car Key Advantages

These are the tried-and-true keys we’re all accustomed to using. The design has always been pretty simple, focused around a metal part that you manually place in the ignition barrel to release the locking mechanism and open the door or gate you’re trying to access. Here are some of the benefits that come with traditional car keys:

• More people are comfortable with using them and they’re easy to use in general.
• They tend to cost less than other car key options.
• They are durable, and last longer than other keys, especially electronic ones.

Push-Start Car Key Advantages

Push-start car keys are known by a variety of terms, such as remotes, and fobs. But they basically involve sending a signal to your vehicle to start it remotely. You don’t even have to be in the vehicle, and these keys also usually won’t let the car lock while they’re inside. Here are some of the other benefits that come with push-start car keys:

• They’re much more convenient, as they can stay in your bag or pocket.
• You can warm up or cool down your car remotely before you even enter it.
• It’s more difficult to duplicate push-start car keys.

Dealership or Locksmith for Car Keys?

Whether you go the traditional or push-start route, you have to decide where you’ll get your keys the next time you upgrade, duplicate or swap them out. While a dealership will know the design of your vehicle, and be able to provide factory-standard key, and fob options, prepare to pay more. With a professional car locksmith, on the other hand, prices are usually a bit more affordable, and you partner with someone who has your vehicle security, and safety in mind.

If you’re ready to upgrade to a push-start car key or are interested in going over your options, stop by any of our DFW-area A-1 Locksmith locations today.

While a simple concept, locking your car door is actually one of the most effective ways to prevent theft and crime. Let’s go over, some tips to help you get in the habit of locking your car, as well as a few other security precautions to take when you’re away from home.

Tips for Remembering to Lock Your Car

One of the easiest ways to ensure you never lock your keys in your car again is to upgrade to a smart key fob or install smart locks with combination entry. (Many keyless options today won’t let the car lock if they’re inside it.) But, there are some other, solutions that will give you peace of mind, and help you remember to always lock your vehicle:

• Hit the lock button twice when exiting the vehicle. 
• Check to see if your vehicle’s settings allow for automatic locks with passive arming.
• Set up reminders on your phone at first to get you into the habit.
• Verify it’s locked by checking to see if the lights flash or the car makes a sound.
• Give the handle a tug for a final confirmation

Other Ways to Protect Your Vehicle

Making sure your vehicle is locked isn’t a foolproof solution for avoiding break-ins, however. Here are a few other tips to ensure your vehicle isn’t a prime target for criminals:

• Park in established parking lots with proper lighting, if possible.
• Avoid leaving your car in neighborhoods with high crime for too long. 
• Don’t leave valuables inside your car that are visible from the outside.
• Install a security system or sign up for vehicle tracking, software.
• Always be aware of your surroundings, and who may be following or watching you.
• Consult with an auto locksmith to see if there are any other improvement opportunities.

Now that you know the one thing you should never do with your car, what are you going to do about it? If you’re interested in security upgrades or have any questions about the suggestions above, contact the team at A-1 Locksmith today. 

From locks to other hardware, here are five vehicle parts to consider replacing:   

1. Door Handles

For starters, you can upgrade the door knobs or door handles on your vehicle so that they either have more security features, such as being accessed remotely, or they’re more difficult for thieves to access by being flush with the vehicle door. Other security reasons to replace car door handles include replacing compromised handles, and adding a backup key slot if the first one is ever damaged (or you lose the key for it).

2. Locks

It also might be time for your locks to be upgraded, especially if you have an older style that is easily visible from the outside, letting potential criminals know if your car is locked or unlocked. Smart locks give you extra convenience, and security by using a code or fingerprint instead of a physical key, so that’s another option to consider as well. 

3. Alarm

If your alarm system isn’t reliable, you might as well not even have it. Or, it could be a factory model that could benefit from being upgraded. Either way, many alarm systems these days come with tracking powered by GPS, so you can know where your vehicle is at all times; especially handy if your vehicle ever ends up in the wrong hands.

4. Windows

Tinted windows are another upgrade that can enhance your vehicle’s security. Thieves don’t want to be seen putting their faces up on a vehicle to see inside it, so the more difficult you make it to see the interior of your vehicle, the less likely it will be broken into. It’s also more difficult to tell if the vehicle is locked or unlocked with tinted windows. Other benefits of tinted windows beyond just security are enhanced privacy, enhanced visibility on bright days, and their ability to help your car’s interior stay cool under the sun.

5. Steering Wheel

Finally, you can upgrade your steering wheel to one that locks, or add a locking mechanism to your steering wheel that you can lock/activate whenever you park or are away from your vehicle. At the end of the day, the more deterrents you place in front of would-be criminals, the less likely they’ll be to target your specific car.

For additional auto security advice, contact the team at A-1 Locksmith today.

From locking the doors to parking in well-lit areas, here are some general best practices for keeping your car safe in Dallas.

Lock Doors, and Windows

Back to basics! Get into the habit of locking all doors, and windows whenever you’re out and about in Dallas (or at home, for that matter). Folks from smaller towns might be used to lower crime, and not having to worry about their vehicles, but in large metropolitan areas like Dallas-Fort Worth, making a mistake here can have consequences.

Ditch the Spare Key

Thanks to modern technology, you don’t have to rely on your spare key in situations when you’ve lost your key or locked it in the car. Key fobs are rising in popularity these days, as many of them won’t let your vehicle lock while the key is inside. There are also digital, and combination entry methods available, but the fact is, a spare key is a liability to your vehicle’s security.

Park in Well-Lit Areas

Traffic may not be popular in North Texas, but it’s a good thing when it comes to parking your vehicle. When you park in an area with proper lighting and regular foot or automobile traffic, it decreases your chances of being a victim. Thieves don’t like being seen!

Invest in Automobile Security Upgrades

Alarms, and other anti-theft devices can be a smart upgrade if you work or live in an area of Dallas with higher crime. Or, if you’ve experienced your fair share of automobile security issues, this can save you some headaches down the road. A professional auto locksmith can give you recommendations to secure your specific vehicle. 

Stay Vigilant

At the end of the day, the best thing you can do when it comes to vehicle safety is stay defensive. This applies to when you’re driving, but also applies to where you park, what you leave in your car and how you treat others on the road. Stay vigilant when it comes to your automobile, and you’ll avoid many security problems that others experience.

For the best auto locksmith in Dallas, trust A-1 Locksmith. Contact us for a quote today!

1. Survey the Scene

Make sure everyone is safe, first and foremost. (You don’t want to be calling your insurance company or an auto locksmith if the burglar is still in the immediate area and a potential threat.) If there are any injuries or the situation is dangerous, call 911 or the appropriate authorities first. Only if you’re sure that the scene is safe should you proceed to the following steps.

2. Take Photos, and Notes

For insurance purposes, you’ll want to document the scene once you determine it is safe. That means taking photos, and notes for anything that was damaged (e.g. windows) and/or stolen. This is also helpful in case you need to file a police report… which we encourage you to do.

3. File Reports

Both insurance, and police reports are important to file, even if there was no major damage or danger. Insurance companies often require police reports before they’ll pay any expenses for theft claims. If you have time to gather them, be sure to have your driver’s license, insurance card, vehicle registration and any photos before you contact the police or insurance company.

4. Get New Keys

If your keys were stolen, you’ll need to make new ones. Even if they weren’t, it’s a good idea to get a new key made from a professional auto locksmith, as there’s always the chance the criminal made a copy of your key if they had access to it. You might also want to think about canceling your debit or credit cards (if they were vulnerable) and sign up for an identity protection service depending on what personal items were stolen.

5. Reconsider Where You’re Parking

Finally, use this incident as a reminder about where to park moving forward. You can’t do much about vehicle break-ins at home, but you can at least make sure you park in good lighting and that you keep all valuables hidden from plain sight. Also, make sure to do the common-sense things like locking your doors, and securing your windows, and you may even want to consider a car alarm for added peace of mind.

If you’re interested in more auto security tips, contact the team at A-1 Locksmith today.

Deadlocking keeps criminals out of your car, but can mechanisms related to deadlocking malfunction and leave you in a pickle. Let’s go over what deadlocking is, what causes deadlocking and what you can do about it.

What Is Deadlocking?

Being locked out of your car is no fun, especially when you don’t know why it happened. But that’s what many experience with deadlocking, as it keeps all door mechanisms inoperable, and leaves you unable to get in your car, even if you have your car keys in hand. 

Deadlocking is a feature car manufacturers have been adding to vehicles since the 1990s to combat car theft. When enabled, it makes breaking into the car more difficult, but you should be able to still access it with keys, in theory. The only problem is that deadlocking features can malfunction and make it nearly impossible for anyone (who isn’t a locksmith) to open it.

What Causes Deadlocking?

Most of the time, deadlocking malfunctions occur because of a broken lock mechanism. If the door is stuck and the mechanism is broken, you’ll need to call a professional auto locksmith to take care of it. Fixing deadlocking is a highly technical process that will only frustrate you if you try to fix it yourself. The cause may be unique to your situation or be more complex than you thought. The situation needs a pros’ eye.

What Do I Do About Deadlocking?

If you think you’re experiencing deadlocking, you can do a couple things to make sure it isn’t another issue before you call a locksmith. If you were recently in a fender-bender, make sure your doors aren’t dented or damaged (a new door is a possible fix for doors not opening as the result of a collision). Electrical component issues, worn-down keys and faulty locks are other possibilities. Either way, a call to a professional locksmith will help you get back on the road faster than most other options.

If you have any other auto-related security questions, give us a call today or stop by any of our area A-1 Locksmith locations in Dallas-Fort Worth.