According to AAA, roughly four million Americans lock their keys in their car each year. Some people don't even get far enough to leave their keys in the car. Many people purchase specialized tracking devices to avoid losing their keys at home!

These are just a few of the many key-related issues that drivers face. The question is, what are some effective ways to solve these problems? 

One solution is to find the best mobile locksmith in your area. Locksmiths can help you open your locked door when your keys are in the vehicle. They can also help you replace lost keys or change your locks. 

An auto locksmith can provide many benefits for someone locked out of their car. But, how can you find the best locksmith near you?

You don't have to ponder this question for long. This guide provides tips on choosing a car locksmith you can trust. So, let's get started!

Research Mobile Locksmiths "Near Me" Before There's An Emergency!

Many people's first mistake in choosing an automotive locksmith is choosing them out of necessity. Most people's first contact with a car locksmith comes after locking themselves out of their cars. 

It's true that most people don't think about locksmiths until they need one. But, it always helps to research a locksmith before they become necessary. This way, you've already found the best team for the job and won't face any surprises. 

So, start asking people you know if they've used a car locksmith before. If so, what did they think of them? Did they have a positive experience, or did the situation worsen? 

Friends and family can often point you in the right direction. But what if they've never had to use a car locksmith? 

In that case, check out online reviews! People are happy to leave thorough reviews of businesses that helped them out of a pinch.

So, check online to see if your prospective locksmith has favorable Internet feedback.

Does This Service Have Credentials?

Some states don't require locksmiths to have licenses to conduct their businesses. However, even in these states, knowing your locksmith has a valid license can bring peace of mind. 

So, check whether your locksmith has a valid locksmith license. There are a few certification boards you can check with to find this information. For example, the ALOA is an excellent licensing board for locksmiths. 

Locksmith licenses can also verify that your service is trustworthy. Most licensing boards require a clean criminal record for recipients. This qualification enables you to trust this locksmith with your vehicle. 

Also, ask to see the locksmith's business card. Compare the company name on the card to the estimate they provide. This cross-referencing can ensure that the company is legitimate.

When should you ask to see credentials? If possible, it's best to ask about these in your preliminary research. 

If necessary, you can also ask to see credentials before the locksmith works on your vehicle. Legitimate locksmiths understand the need to protect your automobile's safety. They'll be glad you decided to verify them instead of blindly trusting them. 

Consider Availability When Choosing a Mobile Locksmith

Another factor to consider is your mobile locksmith's availability. What areas does this locksmith service? Will they drive out to help you if you're far away from home?

The answer to this matters significantly. After all, a locksmith who's too far away to help won't do any good. 

It also helps to determine which locksmiths provide the services you need. Some smiths specialize in residential, commercial, or emergency calls. Their specialty may affect their availability. 

Some services that a locksmith performs may include:

• Rekeying
• Replacing key fobs and access cards
• Fixing components of keyless systems
• Making copies or duplicate keys
• Opening car doors to retrieve your keys

Hopefully, your locksmith offers the services you need. If so, move on to the next consideration.

Does Your Automobile Association Membership Cover Lockout Services?

Automobile association memberships and insurance policies cover the cost of repairing your locks. Alternatively, they may pay for lock installation or lockout services. 

Even if your association doesn't cover these costs, you may still receive a discount. Many of these associations have a list of providers with discounted rates for members. 

So, consider whether your association covers the locksmith you choose. You may need to apply for pre-authorization before you can access these benefits. Contact your association if you're unsure about the steps you must take to qualify. 

Pay Attention to Documentation

Before you work with any locksmith, start by asking for an estimate. This estimate gives you an idea of how much their service will cost. Never pay for the service unless you agree with the locksmith about the work quoted in this step. 

Also, your locksmith may ask to see your ID and complete an authorization form. This process is perfectly legitimate; locksmiths ask for this information to verify that you own the vehicle. 

Fortunately, these authorization forms are often easy to complete. They usually ask for basic information, such as you:

• Name
• Address
• Phone number
• ID number
• Locksmith services necessary
• Signature

Before you sign the document, check over the fine print to ensure there's nothing extra you agree to. If everything seems above board, sign the document.

Once your locksmith completes the work, ensure you receive a copy of the invoice. Your replacement items, the locksmith's labor time, and any emergency service pricing should appear on the document. 

Some associations or insurance companies may need you to submit this form to receive coverage. So, ask for a copy to provide the information they need.

Request an Estimate From Your Mobile Locksmith

These tips can help you find the best mobile locksmith in your area. These considerations verify whether your locksmith has reliable customer service and the professional credentials necessary for the job. 

These tips may lead you to our services if you live in Idaho! AAA 1 Lock & Key offers top-grade mobile locksmith services, from replacing keys to emergency services. 

Check out our services to see if we provide the skills you need. If so, request an estimate from us today! We look forward to working with you.