GLOSSARY

Battery Replacement Key fobs and smart keys operate on small batteries that need periodic replacement. Whether for your vehicle, commercial locks, or residential smart locks, replacing these batteries ensures your keys work properly.

Chip Key A chip key, also known as a transponder key, contains a small chip that communicates with your vehicle’s computer. This interaction allows the vehicle to start when the key is turned in the ignition.

Car Lockout (CLO) Locking your keys inside your vehicle is a common issue. The process of gaining access to your locked vehicle is referred to as a car lockout.

Commercial Lockout If you’re locked out of your business, it can cause significant disruptions. A professional locksmith can help you regain access quickly.

Cut Key New keys, or “key blanks,” are cut to match the specific design required for your locks. This can be done mechanically or with a laser, the latter offering greater precision.

Deadbolt A deadbolt is a robust locking mechanism often used for added security on residential and commercial doors. They come in single-cylinder (keyed on one side) and double-cylinder (keyed on both sides) versions.

Doorknob Commonly found on interior doors, doorknobs contain the locking mechanism within the knob itself. They are available in single or double-cylinder varieties.

Door Closers These systems ensure doors automatically close and lock, providing additional security for restricted areas.

Door Cylinder The cylinder is the part of the lock where the key is inserted. The key must match the cylinder to unlock the door or start the vehicle.

Drilling Drilling may be necessary to open a lock, install a new one, or repair an ignition switch.

Extract Key If a key breaks off inside a lock, extraction is required. This should be done by a professional to avoid damaging the lock.

Fresh Installation Installing a new lock often requires drilling a hole in the door to fit the new hardware. This is common when replacing old locks or installing different types of locks.

Fix Ignition Ignition switches can suffer from damage over time due to dust, corrosion, or humidity. Cleaning or repairing the ignition can often resolve these issues without needing a full replacement.

Handle Sets Handle sets often feature a handle on the exterior and a keyhole or twist knob on the interior, sometimes combined with a deadbolt for extra security.

High-Security Lock These locks offer enhanced security with durable materials and sometimes software systems, making them difficult to breach.

House Lockout If you’re locked out of your home, a locksmith can help you regain access. Having a spare key or professional locksmith contact can prevent the need for more drastic measures like breaking a window.

Ignition Switch The ignition switch is where you insert your key to start your vehicle. Each switch is paired with a specific key, making it difficult for other keys to work.

Immobilizer An immobilizer is an electronic security device in some vehicles that prevents them from starting without the correct key.

Keycode Programmable keys have unique codes that dictate how they are cut and function. These codes are crucial for key duplication and programming.

Keyfob A keyfob is an electronic device that locks and unlocks vehicles or other security systems. They often include additional functionalities beyond simple locking and unlocking.

Key-Made The process of creating a new key from scratch, including cutting and programming as needed.

Keypad Locks Keypad locks use a numeric code to unlock, eliminating the need for physical keys and reducing the risk of lockouts.

Mailbox Lockout If you’re locked out of your mailbox, the type of lock will determine whether a locksmith can help or if you need to contact the USPS.

Master Key Systems A master key system allows different levels of access within a business, with a master key providing access to all areas.

Motorcycle Key Motorcycle keys are designed specifically for motorcycle ignition systems, similar to car keys but tailored to the vehicle type.

Programming Key Programming a key involves ensuring it is recognized by the vehicle or lock’s security system, typically using specialized equipment.

Programming Push-to-Start Fob Push-to-start fobs require programming to work with your vehicle. A locksmith can program these fobs to ensure proper functionality.

Push-to-Start Fob This type of key and starting system requires a button press to start the vehicle, needing specific programming for use.

Rekey Rekeying involves altering a lock’s internal components so it can be opened with a new key, rendering old keys useless.

Remote Control Remote controls or fobs are used to lock and unlock vehicles or security systems, often including additional features for convenience.

Replace Lock Replacing a lock is advisable when the old one is damaged or you want to upgrade security. Choose the appropriate lock for your needs.

Regular Car Key These basic keys have no special features and are simple metal keys with a plastic head.

Storage-Unit Lockout If you’re locked out of your storage unit, a locksmith can help, provided the lock isn’t a special type requiring specific services.

Familiarizing yourself with these terms can help you better understand locksmith services and communicate effectively with your locksmith to ensure all your security needs are met.