The Pros and Cons of a Keyless Ignition System

 

Keyless ignition systems have gained popularity in the automotive industry, offering a convenient alternative to traditional key-based ignition systems. With keyless ignition, drivers can start and stop their vehicles with the push of a button, eliminating the need for a physical key. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of a keyless ignition system, helping you understand the benefits and potential drawbacks of this advanced technology.

Pros of a Keyless Ignition System:

1. Convenience and Ease of Use 

One of the primary advantages of a keyless ignition system is the convenience it offers. With a keyless system, there is no need to fumble through your pockets or search for your keys. You simply approach the vehicle, press the start button, and the engine ignites. This streamlined process can be particularly helpful when your hands are full, allowing for a hassle-free start and stop experience.

2. Enhanced Security Features

Keyless ignition systems often come equipped with advanced security features. These systems typically use encrypted communication between the key fob and the vehicle, making it difficult for potential thieves to clone or mimic the signal. Additionally, some keyless systems incorporate a proximity sensor, automatically unlocking the vehicle's doors when you approach and locking them when you walk away, further enhancing security.

3. Keyless Entry Integration

In many cases, keyless ignition systems are paired with keyless entry systems. This integration allows for seamless entry into the vehicle without physically using a key. By simply carrying the key fob on your person, you can unlock the doors by touching the handle or pressing a button. This feature adds an extra layer of convenience and eliminates the need to manually unlock each door individually.

4. Reduced Wear and Tear on Keys 

Traditional keys can suffer from wear and tear over time due to repeated use and friction. With a keyless ignition system, there is no physical key to insert or turn, reducing the potential for key-related damage. This can result in a longer lifespan for your key fob and less need for key replacement or repairs.

Cons of a Keyless Ignition System:

1. Potential for Key Fob Misplacement

Since keyless ignition relies on a key fob, there is an increased risk of misplacing or losing it. If you misplace or forget the key fob, you may find yourself unable to start your vehicle. This can be especially problematic if you are in a remote area or far from home. It's important to establish a routine for keeping track of the key fob and consider having a spare key fob as a backup.

2. Vulnerability to Electronic Hacking

While keyless ignition systems offer enhanced security features, they are not immune to electronic hacking attempts. Sophisticated thieves can use hacking tools to intercept and replicate the key fob's signal, potentially gaining unauthorized access to the vehicle. Automakers are continually working to improve encryption and security protocols, but it's essential to remain vigilant and take precautions, such as storing the key fob in a signal-blocking pouch when not in use.

3. Higher Cost of Replacement

If you lose or damage your key fob, the cost of replacement can be significantly higher compared to traditional keys. Keyless ignition systems rely on complex electronic components, making the replacement process more involved and costly. It's important to factor in these potential expenses when considering the overall cost of owning a vehicle with a keyless ignition system.

4. Dependency on Battery Power

Keyless ignition systems require a constant power supply to function properly. This means that if the vehicle's battery dies or the key fob's battery is depleted, you may be unable to start your vehicle. It is crucial to regularly check and replace the key fob battery to prevent any inconvenience or unexpected situations. Additionally, if your vehicle's battery fails, it may require assistance from a professional or towing service to jump-start or replace the battery.

Keyless ignition systems offer undeniable convenience and enhanced security features. The ability to start and stop your vehicle with the push of a button and the integration of keyless entry create a seamless and efficient experience. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential drawbacks, such as the risk of key fob misplacement, electronic hacking vulnerabilities, higher replacement costs, and the dependence on battery power. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether a keyless ignition system aligns with your needs and preferences.

How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Locks?

 

A lot of times it’s natural for people to take their locks for granted. After all, people are surrounded by so many of them they don’t even notice them after a while unless they are using them. That’s not always a good thing. Why you might ask? The answer is because it’s important to take a close look at your locks from time to time. That way you will know if it’s time to change any of your locks because they seem old and worn. When are other times you should consider changing one or more of your locks? That’s exactly what I will go over with you in this article. Perfect Reasons to Replace a Lock

These are some very good reasons to change or update the locks at your home, business or on your car.

• When a lock is malfunctioning or has stopped working

  The most obvious reason to change one of the locks at your home, business or on your car is if a lock stops working or is working very poorly. You will have no choice but to repair or replace that lock if this is the situation. This is something you never want to put off or take chances with either. When you have an improperly working lock it needs to be taken care of right away. If not, that lock then compromises the security of you, your family, and your valuables.

• Your locks are showing visible signs of wear

  If your locks are getting rusty, starting to work hard or showing signs of wear and tear, it may just be time to get them changed out. Chances are they will fail totally in the near future anyway. So why not be proactive and get these worn looking locks changed out before they hurt the overall security at your business, residence or with your car.

• When lock upgrades are available

  There is can be no second guessing when it comes to the safety and security of your home, car or at your business. If there are lock upgrades that are available and you can afford them, then by all means, you should go ahead and get those lock changes done.

  Here are some examples of lock upgrades that exist that many people do not know about.

  • Sidewinder locks

    These are advanced locks for automobile doors and ignitions. They are cut in such a way that these locks are very difficult to defeat.

  • Improved window locks

    Many people feel very safe when their windows are closed and their factory installed window locks are protecting them. This is often not the case. Luckily, improved window locks are readily available from lock professionals.

  • Bump-proof locks

    Over the years would-be thieves developed ways to get easily into homes by doing what is called ‘bumping the lock’. Since then locks have been developed that prevent this from being able to be done.

• For convenience reasons

  Some people get their locks changed out because it makes things more convenient for them. Examples of reasons people do this are to get such conveniences as remote entry and starting for their car. Keyless entry locks are another example of locks that people often install at their homes, businesses, and on their cars for convenience.

• After a burglary

  There is nothing written in stone that says a burglar will not strike again at your home after they stole some things from you the first time. This is especially true if they lifted a set of spare keys from you in the first burglary. So it’s best not to take chances after a break-in. Be sure to get your entryway locks and other important access locks remastered or replaced.

• When you have lost your keys

  Simply replacing your keys is not enough after you have lost them. Your safety and security may be compromised if somebody with bad intentions finds those keys and knows what they go to. In this case, it’s much cheaper to have entry locks changed or remastered than it is to replace valuable stolen items from your home, car or business.

• After you move into a new home

  Why change the locks or at least get them remastered after you have moved into a new home. The reason for this is you never know who was in possession of keys or codes for the locks at that home before you bought. The fact remains some people are just too trusting in this world. The previous owner may have loaned or given keys to such people as the yard guy, the pet sitter, the babysitter or any number of relatives or friends. If that’s the case, then that means a lot of people you do not know may have a set of keys to your new home.

Keep It Simple, Get a Professional Lock Evaluation

What’s the absolute best way to know when it’s time to change some locks on your car or at your home or business. The answer is to get the opinion of a pro. There is no better professional to help you out with this than a well-trained locksmith. They are very familiar with what the warning signs are of a lock that’s going bad. They also know what newer types of locks that offer better security are available in the marketplace.

Best of all, many locksmith service providers like out of Atlanta, Georgia will offer free or low-cost residential and commercial lock evaluations. During this detailed lock inspection, a seasoned locksmith in Atlanta will look at all of your home or business locks. They will then go over with you which of your locks they feel need to be repaired, replaced or upgraded. There is absolutely no better way than this to tell if any of your locks need replacing.

So don’t take chances with your all-important locks. Call your local locksmith and get a professional opinion as to what locks need to be changed at your home, business or in your automobile. 

Article Source:  How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Locks?

Transponder Key Problems & Solutions

 

Many of us who drive today use a transponder key. It is the newest way of driving our vehicle that offers us convenience that many of us never thought possible. As nice as it is to use a transponder key that allows us to open our car door and start the engine, all without putting a key into the car, it comes with its fair share of problems. You can actually stand wherever you are and just aim your key at the car in order to get it going. This is genius! However, since this type of key is mechanical, you might experience a problem every now and then.

Your transponder key has a chip inside of it. Every chip corresponds to your vehicle only, which means that it is programmed to operate just your vehicle. You can’t use your transponder key to operate any other vehicle. Having this type of technology makes it very hard for your vehicle to be stolen. This is what the transponder key was designed to do, prevent auto theft. Since it is such a useful piece of technology, many auto manufacturers are designing their vehicles so that they will only operate with a transponder key.

How to Deal With Transponder Key Issues

When you have trouble starting your vehicle or unlocking the locks, this could indicate a problem with your transponder key. This problem will defeat the purpose of having this type of key. In most instances, this is a relatively easy thing to fix. All that you have to do is have the key reprogrammed by a qualified locksmith. A locksmith will be able to come to wherever you are to take care of the problem for you on the spot. They have the know-how and the right tools needed to handle your transponder key problems. There are, however, some locksmiths who have not yet invested in the equipment needed to assist with your transponder key needs. This is why it is important to let the locksmith service that you contact know that you have this type of key, so that they will bring the necessary tools needed to address your transponder key issues.

Another problem that we often see is that those who have a transponder key don’t realize that the small chip is actually necessary to operate their vehicle. They often think that it is a battery. Therefore, if they have a key that has been dropped, over and over again, they will just patch it up with some tape until it eventually falls out. The problem is that it is not a battery that you can just replace. It is the chip that programs your key to operate your vehicle. If you lose it then you’ll need another chip and it will have to be programmed again. Once the locksmith has correctly inserted the chip and reprogrammed it again, the vehicle will begin to operate again. The one thing that you don’t want to do is call an auto dealership or mechanic to take care of this for you. They will usually charge you more than is necessary. This is often because they have overhead expenses that they need to take care of and unfortunately, they are not willing to pass the savings on to you. You will foot the bill for their overhead expenses, whether you know it or not.

If you lose your key then this would present a serious problem for the motorist. If you physically lose your key and someone else happens upon it, they will have access to your vehicle. As long as a thief has the key in their possession, they could steal your vehicle. While it isn’t easy to hotwire a vehicle, it is no problem for them to drive off with your vehicle when they have the keys in their hands.

Get Ready!

The best way to avoid this problem is to get ready for the possibility. Whether it is losing your key or the chip inside, you can do something to prepare for this if it happens. What we suggest is that you have a spare transponder key. This might sound logical but what you do not realize is that not everyone actually has a spare key. They are more expensive than a standard key, which is one reason why they may not purchase a second key. However, be advised that you can usually negotiate another key at the time of purchasing your vehicle. The dealership will do all sorts of things to get you to buy a vehicle. They will try to entice you by offering you things that won’t really cost them very much. When they offer you something just ask them if you can get another transponder key instead. In most cases, they are happy to oblige you if it will guarantee them that you will buy a vehicle.

If you do not negotiate a transponder key at the time of purchasing your vehicle then chances are that you will be expected to pay a premium. However, if you do not negotiate during the time of purchase then you can purchase a transponder key online at Amazon or eBay. In either case, you’ll want to make sure that you are purchasing the key from a reputable seller. Check the sellers ratings to make sure that they sell reliable keys that are free of defects. Once you have purchased your new transponder key, then take it to a dealership to have it programmed. This will save you far more money than if you were to purchase directly from the dealership. Take it from someone who knows! You can enjoy your transponder key when you know what to expect.

Source: Transponder Key Problems & Solutions

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At Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC we are here to take care of all your residential lock needs. That includes any Atlanta, Georgia home lock repair or installation work that you require us to do for you. There is no residential lock issue that we can’t efficiently resolve for you. 

By calling us at (678) 543-9131 you can get a home locksmith service appointment scheduled or ask for emergency residential lock help from us. Call Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC at (678) 543-9131 for a lock quote or visit our website at locksmithofatlanta.co to learn more about our Atlanta residential locksmith services.

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At Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC we are here for you whenever you have any Atlanta, Georgia Automotive locksmith needs. Our talented auto locksmiths are experts when it comes to doing vehicle lock installations and repairs. You can even call us 24-hours a day at (678) 543-9131 to get emergency car locksmith assistance. 

We do everything from auto lockouts to ignition cylinder lock changes. So call Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC at (678) 543-9131 for a free auto lock service quote. You can also visit our website at locksmithofatlanta.co to learn more about our quality Atlanta, GA automotive locksmith services.

Panic Bars – Importance in Commercial Properties

If you’ve started looking into panic bars, you might have come across devices like the Aluminum Fire Rated Touch Bar Exit Device, or the Aluminum Rim Panic Device that comes with a Standard Pull and Cylinder, or even the Horizontal Exit Device with a Keyed Trim Lever made by LIF Industries, Inc. – the point is, you will come across different options and you will see the panic bar called different names, such as an exit device, crash bar, panic bar, fire exit device and so on. These devices are very important, and here you are going to discover why this is the case. 

Panic bars are devices that you might have seen before in hospital settings, offices, campuses, and other businesses. A panic bar goes on the inside of a door. There are different styles for your convenience, so you can make the best decision for you or consult with a locksmith. You can get press style or even push style, for example. 

So let’s get into why having a panic bar is so important, and what exactly a panic bar does to help you. To start, when you have a panic device in place, you can get away from lifting anything heavy or needing to fumble around with the knob on your door or the door’s handle. This is useful because it can prevent trampling in the event that a group of people needs to get out of a building fast.

What Parts Make Up A Panic Bar?

So from reading before, you can see that a panic bar can be made with a standard pull and cylinder, keyed trim lever and so on – but in general, for them to do their job, they need a latching device and crossbar.

Panic Bars Can Be Mandatory As Per Local Codes

Do you know what the codes are in your area? We urge you to look into the National Fire Protection Association Code amongst other ones so you can be sure you are doing things correctly.

Know the Laws about Panic Bars

It might be the case that it is the law that you have a panic bar in your building. One way to figure out if they are mandatory is if you have a lot of people in and out of your property. What is the maximum capacity? Do you have a lot of people in and out every day? If so, you might need to have a panic bar. But even if it’s not required, you still should think about having one. It’s good to know that you are doing what you can to protect those who come in and out of your property. 

You have to be prepared in the event of an emergency situation, especially when you have a responsibility to protect others coming into your property. You have to think about if they would end up trampling each other to get out of your building if an emergency were to occur. One other thing you might want to consider is handicapped-accessibility. 

Crash bars are very significant if you are trying to better protect those who enter your property, because they allow a commercial building to be exited quickly in the event that a fast exit is needed. Another perk about panic bars is that having them can mean better insurance rates for you. This is something to check into. Who doesn’t like to save money or take advantage of discounts?

Panic Bars Are Undeniably Important

Now that you recognize that panic devices are imperative for reasons such as they let persons exit a building promptly if needed, and can save lives by helping people to avoid crowding and trampling, talk to a locksmith about having one installed or picking the best one for you. Your device can also be connected to an alarm system, and this might be something you are interested in. 

Yes, a panic device is important, and it is equally as important that you have yours installed correctly. This is why you should reach out to a locksmith who knows what they are doing. If you are in our service area, we are licensed and insured to do the job, as these are important qualities to check into any lock and security provider you are hiring. 

These are just some things to think about if you are starting to wonder about the importance of having a panic device for your property. If you think you might want a panic bar, and you happen to be in our service area, call us. We are Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC in Atlanta, Georgia and our goal is to make sure that locals have everything they need to secure their properties. Our team offers reasonably priced locksmith solutions for your convenience so you can obtain the security that you need. 

There are so many different brands if you are looking into panic bars. You saw some earlier in this article, but other popular names include Arrow and Yale. You have so many options and this is a great thing. Taking the right steps with regard to security can make a huge difference in terms of protection. If a mass exit were to be needed for your property, perhaps due to a fire or another emergency, having a panic bar in place could literally save lives. You can never know what could happen. Things certainly happen without warning and we can’t always know they will happen, but we can do our best to be prepared. Panic bars are devices that allow you to be prepared. 

Get a free consultation and price estimate for this service by contacting our team of experts if you are in our service area. But know that you can pull up a locksmith in your location by doing a search on Google – look for businesses who are insured and licensed. We are glad you have an interest in panic bars and hope this information has helped you!