MARCH 7

If you have ever owned a car that only had 1 key then you know how scary it can be when you aren't sure where that 1 key is. What would you do if it never turned up? Ever lock your keys in the trunk? Some won't open without a key! Having a spare key is always the best back up plan for losing a key to anything but it's just not always possible. Even when it is possible, there is the chance you may have left it at home, in another state, or even another country! Leaving no option but to call a locksmith. If you have had this happen then you know how frustrating it is when you call the locksmith to come make a simple key and potentially end up spending several hundreds of dollars depending on the car you have and the location your locksmith has to show up.

Here are 2 great options for saving yourself a little trouble and possibly a lot of cash.

Even when it is possible, there is the chance you may have left it at home

•Option 1- The obvious, having a spare key. A good way to make sure you always have a spare key with your car is to have a locking box installed on your car or even a zip tie will strap a key to the frame somewhere under your car if the key is basic enough with no electronics.

•Option 2- A less than obvious one here, take a picture! That's right, take a clear picture of your car key when you first get it. I would do this before anything else when I purchase a vehicle. I've seen my dad buy a car at an auction, drive to the gas station, get out, pump gas, and then not be able to find the keys ANYWHERE!! True story! To avoid having something like this happen to you, take a clear picture from the side angle of the key, showing all of the slopes, grooves, and teeth on the side of the key. A good locksmith will be able to decipher the key code for most keys this way and can cut a new one to match.

I myself am a locksmith and I can say that this method has saved me many hours of labor with my customers. Which in turn has gotten them back on the road much faster and for much cheaper.
Remembering these 2 tips just might prove to save your day and save countless amounts of money over time!