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Is It Common To Get Your Key Stuck In The Ignition?

Posted by on Feb 16, 2016

Is It Common To Get Your Key Stuck In The Ignition?

Is it common to get your key stuck in the ignition? This question has been asked by nearly everyone, especially car owners. While people may have different views, the answer to the question is “yes”. Yes, it is common to get your key stuck in the ignition. Like many machines, certain things in a car can occasionally go wrong. Some gadgets in a car can go wrong if they are not well maintained or taken care of properly. Ideally, some can also experience occasional hiccups despite proper maintenance and care. In other words, it is not easy and it is nearly impossible to prevent your key from being stuck in the car’s ignition. But good news is you can fix the whole situation without much hassle. Thanks to statenislandlocksmith.net for the useful information.

Common Reasons for a Stuck Key in the Car’s Ignition

However, before you begin figuring out how to get your stuck key from the car’s ignition, you must first, understand what is making your key be stuck in there. Because a key that will not turn is time consuming, stressful, and frustrating, you may be desperately in need of a solution. While some solutions are effective, others are not, and may make the whole situation more difficult. It is crucial to check for causes that make your key be stuck in the car’s ignition, as this will help prevent more problems. Some of the common reasons include:

Loose cablesLoose Cables: Loose cables are either located behind the ignition or inside the dashboard. When your key is stuck in the car’s ignition, one of the first places to visit is the loose cable. If you find that a loose cable is the reason for a stuck key, replacing it may be the best bet.

A worn out Wheel Lock Cylinder: Another thing that can make your key be stuck in the car’s ignition is a worn out wheel lock cylinder. One effective way to detect a worn out wheel lock cylinder is by inserting a fob or key into the wheel lock cylinder and try to turn it. If there is difficulty turning the key or fob, your wheel lock cylinder may be worn out. There is one less turn for the key or fob to go in its lifetime every time you insert it (key or fob) into the wheel lock cylinder.

Dead Car BatteryBattery is dead: Dead battery can also be another reason for a stuck key. You may consider checking your battery if a key is stuck in the car’s ignition. Although this is not that common, a dead battery can make a key remain stuck in the ignition of some cars (especially modern cars).

Vehicle is not in Park: Like others, this can also make your key remain stuck in the car’s ignition. You may need to replace your car’s shift solenoid or another related mechanism even if the gearshift lever appears to be in park.

How to Fix a Stuck Key in the car’s Ignition

While it may be impossible to prevent your key from being stuck in the car’s ignition, it is relatively easy to fix the whole situation. First, you must understand that in most cases, the ignition key is not often at fault when such a problem arises. Before you start to turn and twist the key all you want, consider these three simple techniques. They include:

  1. Testing the Parking Position

It is common for your car to fail to lock into the parking position. If you are still able to move the gearshift lever after turning the car off, your linkage may be worn out or out of adjustment. You must always lock the shifter in park in order to remove the key.

  1. Checking the Position of your Key

Take a look at the car’s ignition switch to make sure the key is in the lock position. As wheel lock cylinders age and wear out, it gets simpler to turn the key beyond the lock position. This is particularly true if your key has been attached to various heavy objects that gradually promote excessive wear by adding pressure on the wheel lock cylinder.

  1. Moving the Steering Wheel Back and Forth

Try moving the steering wheel system back and forth, and at the same time gently remove the key from the lock position. The steering wheel can sometimes lock, thereby, making the car’s ignition switch to keep the key locked in place until it (steering wheel system) is unlocked. While doing this, be keen not to pull hard on the key and simply focus on getting the much-needed movement from the steering wheel system.

Although it is common to get your key stuck in the car’s ignition, it is relatively easy to fix the situation. In most cases, the ignition key is usually not at fault; thus, you should check for other aspects that are making your key be stuck in the car’s ignition. If you are unable to figure out what is really making your key remain stuck in the car’s ignition, contact your local locksmith for help. The locksmith will come to your office or home to help solve the problem.

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How To Open A Kwikset Key Lock In 10 Seconds

Posted by on Feb 16, 2016

How To Open A Kwikset Key Lock In 10 Seconds

Kwikset happens to be a US based company that is highly noted for offering a wide variety of security products to its customers. Some of their most popular of these products is the line of re-programmable SmartKey locks that this firm provides. These particular locks have been certified to be grade 1 security locks that are specifically designed for residential homes utilization. This certification has been executed by the builders hardware manufacturer’s association. As such, Kwikset markets them as been totally immune to any hacking or tampering by wires and screwdrivers. Or for that matter virtually any other object which may be inserted into the keyways of these locks in an effort to unlock them.
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What is the major selling point of Kwikset SmartKey locks?

kwikset keyless1The main appeal of this variety of key locks completely lies in the re-programmable cylinders they come with. This feature presents the user with the handy capability of re-programming them to work any key that may be introduced in them after the re-programming has been executed. This naturally means that landlords aren’t necessitated to physically replace locks whenever their tenants move out and new ones move in. At the same time, it can also provides secure temporary access for construction workers or anybody else who might need to gain entry into a house for a limited length of time.

In essence, the SmartKey lock from Kwikset is a 5 pins lock, which comes with 6 depth increments. It can be reprogrammed by inserting the original key into it, prior to inserting a tool into a specified slot on its face. Doing this shifts its assembly back at a distance of around 1/8 of an inch. This process separates the pins and sliders of this lock, which holds them apart from each other. When a new key is introduced into the lock, it then registers its impressions and effectively resets the relationship of the pins and sliders to seamlessly correspond with the new key.

Is the Kwikset SmartKey lock invulnerable?

Like earlier mentioned, kwikset boldly asserts that the SmartKey lock is extremely secure and therefore totally impenetrable to any device which may be introduced in its keyway. This, however, is not completely true. The fact still remains that this product comes with several vulnerabilities, which skilled hackers have been able to identify. Most of which make the Kwikset SmartKey lock less secure than what its maker would like consumers to think.

Just how to open a Kwikset SmartKey lock in 10 seconds

Kwikset ElectronicYou may be probably very eager to discover just how you can easily unlock the Kwikset SmartKey lock in the given time span that the title of this paragraph states. Well, never fear. The following happens to be a step by step guide on just how to open a Kwikset key lock in 10 seconds which may come in very handy in executing such a task.

To begin with, you will be required to get your hand on a piece of thin, blank object that comes with a very sharp end. You will also need a paperclip or if for one reason or the other, this is not possible, a simple wire that has a looped end. A hammer will also be needed. With these three simplistic tools, you will be able to efficiently tackle any Kwikset SmartKey lock in just under ten seconds. It is critical for you to fully understand that these types of key locks have rotating tailpiece, which can move independently of the plug. This, in most circumstances, makes the function of a key almost superfluous.

First and foremost, get your hand on the blank object, and introduce it, with the sharp end first, into the keyway. Next, making use of the hammer, proceed to punch out the plug, which is found at the back of the plug. It is important to note that basically this plug is just a thin piece of metal, and hammering the blank, sharp object into the plug, pierces a hole into the lock’s tailpiece. After accomplishing this, introduce the paperclip or the thin wire with a looped end, into the tailpiece and proceed to turn it. Doing this will effortlessly enable you to effortlessly unlock the lock without any problem. Finally, it is important for to note that when all this accomplished, the SmartKey lock will not be in a position of been re-programmed again. Well, now you definitely know just how to open a Kwikset key lock in 10 seconds and in a completely stress-free manner.

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15 Ways To Safeguard A Commercial Property

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

15 Ways To Safeguard A Commercial Property

As a commercial property owner, it is of utmost importance to protect your commercial property from intruders and other disasters. In fact, this should be your first priority. Vandalism can really soil the image of your business and you do not want that to happen. Disaster strikes when least expected and there is property that is prone to destruction. Therefore, you must take the necessary precautions to lower risks and protect your property. Having said that, the following are the top 15 ways to effectively safeguard your commercial property.
Resources:
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Ensure there is proper lighting

Lighting serves a vital purpose of providing maximum visibility especially at night. To prevent vandalism, all lighting fixtures should have vandal-proof covers. The perimeter wall should be properly lit so as to scare off robbers. All entry points such as doors, windows should be well lit as well.

Install solid doors

All doors in your commercial property should be solidly constructed and lined with heavy metal crossbars.

Install secure windows

Windows offer better security when fitted with secure locks and burglar-resistant glass. For improved security, install polyester security films with break sensor alarms. The rear windows are more vulnerable hence should be fitted with heavy metal grates.

Install alarm systems

Installing alarm systems in your commercial property helps to deter burglar activities. For guaranteed safety, it’s good to ensure the process is done by a licensed alarm company. The alarm company must have a central monitoring station. Besides, it should be checked regularly to ensure it functions optimally.

Care for the cash register

The cash register should be kept at a point where it’s not easily seen from outside the building. Ensure its open whenever it’s empty or not being used for easy monitoring.

Strong safes

home safeTo offer better protection, the safe must be burglar -resistant and fireproof. While it should be visible, it’s good to ensure it’s securely anchored. Keep the safe open when it’s empty and lock in all valuables at the end of the day. For the sake of your security , change the safe’s combination whenever you sack or release employees who have details regarding the safe.

Inspect the building’s exterior

Inspect your building’s exterior regularly to ensure all the openings are secured. Maintain proper landscaping to achieve better visibility. It’s also a good security measure to remove things like vehicle equipment , boxes , cans and trash bins away from the building to avoid burglars accessing the rooftop.

Perimeter fences

An ideal perimeter fence should be erected at heights which an intruder cannot be able to access your property. For a fence to serve its purpose, it should be vertically erected with 0.3 vinyl coated vertical iron bars.

Key controls

All commercial property keys should be handled responsibly. Ensure all the keys are coded and locked somewhere safely when they are not being used.

Install surveillance cameras in your commercial property

Security CamerasWhile they might cost you a significant amount of money, surveillance cameras play an important role of deterring burglars. Moreover, with these cameras installed in your commercial premises, it is possible to get the burglars after a break-in.

Use of Anti-climb fences

If your commercial property is of substantial size, consider putting an anti-limb fence or a wall around the perimeter.

Using Key-card access systems

The security of your commercial property should be taken seriously at all times. When security is at its topmost, your customers and employees will feel safe hence giving you more business. Introducing key-card access systems on exterior doors will ensure than unauthorized people do not access the premises.

Taking an Insurance cover

Taking an insurance cover can help you protect your property from unpredictable disasters such as fire breaks and burglary. Do enough research to find the reliable insurance company to offer you protection?

Conduct risk assessment

Do thorough investigations in order to evaluate the areas that require attention. It might happen that your commercial property is located in a crime-prone area or your fence needs repair and overlooking such things puts you in a risky situation.

Various disasters including fires, floods, break-ins and many more are a major concern for commercial property owners. There are many ways you can protect commercial properties. Meanwhile, criminals are becoming even smarter so it’s imperative to keep yourself updated with newer methods of protecting your commercial property.

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Types of File Cabinet Locks

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

Types of File Cabinet Locks

File cabinets locks are installed in offices and residents where there are needs to protect valuable files and documents. There is two type of file cabinet locks, i.e. key-based cabinet lock and an advanced keyless technology that uses coded locking mechanism. Thanks to the guys at Cherry Hills Village Locksmith for all the useful information.

 

The key based file cabinet locks

There are basically two main types of key-based file cabinet locks;

  • Pin Tumblers Key lock
  • Tubular tumble

The most simple and popular key based file cabinet lock is the pin tumbler. The pin tumbler is a cylindrical lock that uses stacks of pins of varying lengths to prevent the locking mechanism from working without the correct key.

 

cabinet lockThe tubular tumble also known as the Ace lock, or radial lock features a variety is pins arranged in a circular pattern, and the corresponding key is cylindrical in shape. These keys are generally considered to be safer and more resilient to many people, but they can actually be drilled without effort and in very little time they can crack. There are some brands however who have advanced their Tubular tumble locks by hardening them and making them impossible to be broken.

 

Another type of lock is cam lock, and nearly all cabinet are supplied with basic cam lock. Thay hooks the cabinet into place on its interior side of its door. These locks are operated with tiny keys and constitute the simplest of the lock fastening.

 

The key based file cabinet locks are mostly used and preferred because they virtually add no cost to the overall price of the cabinet. The problem with them is the potential increased risk of security and liabilities, leading to extra costs and the annoyance that these locks lead to, which is why millions of people around the world are opting to go for the keyless cabinet locks.

 

The keyless cabinet Locks.

Keyless Cabinet LockThe keyless cabinet locks use access control mechanism and electronic locking mechanism which makes it beneficial to people who tend to lose keys. They come in various sizes types and with different levels of sophistications but all in all, they are able to provide better control and high security as compared to keylock file cabinet locks since they streamline the process for accessing the cabinet and serves well against thefts. An access control code is given to the user, and he or she access the cabinet via a computer.They can also be accessed using a radio transmitter and even be operated manually in case of emergency if the transmitter is lost.

 

Other types of keyless based file cabinet lock use a coded locking mechanism with two different password combination for two users. They come with a keypad monitoring the date as times when the file cabinet was accessed. You will also find some other keyless cabinet locks Powered by cameras all tailored to provide security for your files and documents.

 

When choosing the file cabinet locks to use it is important to go for the best that suits your desired level of security, the usability, your budget and of course from a reputable brand. The best and the only way to ensure you get the best is by involving a locksmith when installing your file cabinet locks.

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Which Locks Provide The Highest Home Security?

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

Which Locks Provide The Highest Home Security?

For many homeowners, the level of security is often a priority selecting door locks. This is because selecting the right locks provides the best defense for their homes to prevent break-ins. The good news is that today’s locks are specially designed to offer much greater protection. However, because of the numerous brands and models available, it can be hard to determine which locks can provide the highest home security.

 

So, which locks provide the highest home security? Below are some of the highest grade security locks that will make you feel totally secure in your home.
Resources:
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Deadbolt Locks

 

deadboltssssDeadbolt locks are highly recommended for use in residential doors as they provide the highest security level. These locks don’t contain springs, which explains the term “dead.”

 

There are two types of deadbolt locks: single-cylinder deadbolt and double-cylinder deadbolt. The single-cylinder deadbolt lock is usually operated by use of a key from the inside, and with a turn-button on the inside. The double-cylinder deadbolt lock is usually operated from the inside and the outside with a key. Most homeowners prefer double-cylinder deadbolt locks because burglars cannot break the glass to reach in and unlock the door. It offers double security. Be sure to purchase top brand deadbolt locks if you want the highest level of security in your home.

 

Keyless Locks

 

Keyless Lock 1Many residential homes have keyless locks installed to provide highest security level and convenience. The lock has a special feature known as anti theft rolling code that ensures that a single code is not used twice. The advantage with this type of lock is that it’s compatible with garage door openers and home security systems.

 

You might also want to consider selecting this top security lock for your home.

 

Entry Locksets or Handlesets

 

Entry locksets/handlesets are usually combined with deadbolt locks for enhanced security. They feature two door knobs that are locked both from inside and the outside. One of the doorknobs is locked from inside by either depressing or turning a small button while the other doorknob must be unlocked with a key.

 

Mortise Locks

 

It’s common to find Mortise locks on many residential doors due to their advanced security level and convenience.

 

The lock features a flat and rectangular box that fits perfectly into the door’s recess from the edge and includes keyholes and two faceplates consisting of knobs. The deadbolt lock is operated by turning the inside knob while the latch is operated from both sides

 

New Lock Technologies

 

kwikset kevoSome of the most advanced technologies in home security are the new smart locks featuring Bluetooth-enabled deadbolts, cameras, and finger scanners. Others support mobile apps that send you lock activities notifications on your Smartphone and also enable you to effectively manage the locks.

 

These locks are technically engineered to provide maximum security and for convenience.

 

Remember that locksets offer first line defense against intrusion and thus selecting the best is crucial. Be sure to purchase from reputable brands as you are guaranteed of having your home well secured. Also, choose a reputable locksmith for installation as the level of security is also increased when the locks are professionally installed.

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