How to Recognise a Shady Auto Locksmith
Posted 11/23/21 by Elspeth Myers
Here at 3D Autokeys, we keep our ears to the ground, and unfortunately, we have recently heard an increase of complaints about rogue auto locksmiths. We urge people to read the article below and follow our pointers! It could save you the hassle of getting caught out by an opportunistic rogue trader.
We know how stressful it can be to search for ‘an auto locksmith near me’. However, even if you want to resolve your car key issue quickly, we think it’s a great idea to bear in mind the following tips.
Whether you have found yourself needing auto key replacement as you have a broken car key, require a replacement car key, or worse, you require a lockout service; you will more than likely hurriedly search for a mobile auto locksmith who can come to where you are.
The following tips will help you find a verifiable auto locksmith; who can provide you with quality service without compromising on price.
Clear Pricing
When speaking with a reputable car keys locksmith, they should provide you with an accurate quote. This should come with no hidden charges and shouldn’t be subject to change when they arrive on the day! Avoid booking with an auto locksmith who gives you evasive answers such as an inaccurate estimate, price details, or a remarkably low price.
When you book with 3D Autokeys, our friendly quotes team will provide you with a quote in advance, and this is the price you pay on the day, no changes.
Check Online Reviews
Over the years, it has become much easier to leave reviews, whether on Google, Trustpilot or Facebook! This kind of social proof, similar to word of mouth, is critical when choosing an auto locksmith. A trustworthy and dependable auto locksmith will have plenty of 4 and 5‑star reviews; this is an excellent opportunity for you to see what other people have to say about the auto locksmith you’re thinking about choosing.
Online Presence
When searching for an ‘auto locksmith near me,’ it’s essential to see if the company you are looking at has up to date and regularly updated content on their social media and website. Some less experienced auto locksmiths may only advertise on platforms such as Gumtree; this is a red flag. Typically, a maintained website and regularly updated social media suggest a reputable company interested in maintaining a professional online presence.
Registered Business Address
Always check for a registered business address when booking auto locksmith services! Here at 3D Autokeys, we have heard many horror stories about jobs gone wrong. The last thing you want is being unable to contact the company if something goes wrong and you don’t know where their head office is if you have to take up a grievance.
Branding and Insurance
The biggest giveaway when you are trying to spot a locksmith scam is a lack of insurance. Your chosen locksmith must have insurance coverage; this will cover any repairs completed and save your vehicle from any potential damages caused during the course of work.
A professional locksmith generally carries an insurance certificate to carry out work; having insurance will save you from bearing any losses caused by negligence on the part of the locksmith. If the technician does not have these documents, then it is possible you could be scammed by an amateur locksmith who should not be allowed to perform these services on your vehicle.
If an auto locksmith shows up wearing regular clothes in a van without proper signage or unmarked, this is a red flag, and you’re well within your right to turn this person away! Likewise, if the auto locksmith does not show any identification or credentials, think twice before using their services.
Bogus Claims
Occasionally auto locksmiths make false claims of being approved or supported by the Police; it is essential to know that the Police don’t endorse or recommend any locksmiths. Beware of this!
Subcontractors
When you call a locksmith, you should either come through to a helpful quotes team as you do here at 3D Autokeys or the locksmith themselves. If you get through to a call centre, this is a sign that the auto locksmith who will come out to complete the job is a subcontractor; this can mean that you won’t be sure who is completing the job, which will make it challenging to ascertain reviews, as above, or even know who you are paying.
Drilling the Lock
A competent auto locksmith will try various non-destructive options of opening a lock and will only consider drilling the lock as a last resort. However, a shady auto locksmith might jump straight to this option!
Final Thoughts
Would you hand a person your bank card and PIN and potentially have access to your hard-earned money? If your first thought is ‘NO!’ then why would you give them access to your car? Which is potentially worth thousands of pounds. When employing auto locksmith services, you are granting someone access to your vehicle. To make changes and potentially cause damage, you need to be able to trust that person. As previously mentioned, knowing that the company is fully insured if something goes wrong should also put you at ease.
We hope these tips have helped, and if you would like to get in touch with a trustworthy auto locksmith team, contact 3D Autokeys.
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