Eydens Auto Locksmiths and Vehicle Security specialists have shared advice to help consumers avoid being caught out by rogue auto locksmiths, unqualified service providers, and unethical salespeople. This follows spikes in complaints of poor quality work, key fob cloning, and excessive callout charges.
A company, based in Coventry and serving clients throughout the broader Warwickshire and Birmingham regions, has advised that the best option for consumers who do not already have a known auto locksmith to call is to rely on verifiable accreditations when choosing a firm to contact.
Rising Concerns Related to Rogue Automotive Locksmiths
Almost every driver will, at some point, lose a set of keys, find themselves locked out of their car, have a key snap in a lock, discover that an electronic fob isn’t working, or be the unfortunate victim of a key or bag theft, leaving them stranded and without a way to get into their vehicle.
The most common reaction is to either run a generic online search for ‘auto locksmith near me’ or depend on social media marketplaces to find a provider locally who can come to the individual’s home, workplace or roadside and help them get back on their way.
Research conducted by the Master Locksmiths Association identified over 500 reports of unethical behaviour or pressure to pay exorbitant charges. Meanwhile, 65% of all locksmiths have dealt with customers who have been let down or treated badly by the first provider they called.
A separate study earlier this year found that key cloning, made significantly easier by remote and programmable electronic locks, has resulted in a surge of premium vehicle thefts, with a rise of over 1,000% in the number of cars stolen using this method in some areas.
Company owner Rob Eyden says, ‘It is imperative you act with caution when entrusting anybody with your car keys, just as you wouldn’t dream of handing over your house keys to a stranger or somebody you might have contacted online without any assurance that they are a reputable, qualified professional.
Some of the most frequent emergencies arise when a customer has left keys on show inside a bag or vehicle or allowed somebody to take them out of sight for just a few minutes.
Even if your keys haven't been stolen, it is surprisingly easy for thieves to create a copy using sophisticated devices that clone the radio signal transmitted between your car locks and your key fob, giving them access to your vehicle without you being aware.’
Guidance on Checking the Credentials of an Auto Locksmith
Rob says, 'We appreciate that being locked out or without keys to your car is incredibly stressful, but it is important to react rationally and take a short amount of time to check that whoever is responding to your call is a legitimate professional.
At best, an unqualified or inexperienced auto locksmith may be unable to help, but at worst, you could become the latest victim of key cloning-related crimes or see unnecessary damage to your locks that can become very expensive indeed to put right.’
The company recommends drivers look for known quality marks and memberships of trade regulatory bodies, which provide databases where they can run a quick search for the company or tradesperson’s name to check that they are registered.
Recommendations When Contacting an Auto Locksmith
Eydens suggests consumers should:
- Only use an auto locksmith registered with the Auto Locksmiths Association (ALA) and that is featured by the organisation when they search for local auto locksmiths in their area using the online search function.
- Ask for proof of ID, confirming that the name or business matches and that the auto locksmith is who they say they are.
- Require an upfront quotation or fixed cost, with reputable auto locksmiths always happy to provide at least an indicative price or advice on the highest and lowest possible cost, depending on how long the work takes or the complexity of the task.
Trading Standards have also advised that rogue locksmiths deploy intimidating tactics or demand payment via a mobile card device before they will complete any work. There is a distinct risk the locksmith has no intention of fixing the problem, will charge more than they have implied, or will then have access to the person’s card details.
Rob adds, 'As an experienced, long-standing team of auto locksmiths, we take enormous pride in the quality and efficiency of our work, but we speak to too many customers who have been caught out. Taking a few minutes to run some checks will ensure you find a capable locksmith and have peace of mind that they will meet your expectations.’
About Eydens Auto Locksmiths and Vehicle Security
Eydens Auto Locksmiths have over 20 years of experience and are members of both the MLA and the ALA, providing auto lock and key services to motorists in Coventry, Rugby, Nuneaton, Bedworth, Kenilworth, Leamington, Stratford upon Avon and Warwick.
Media Contact
Rob Eyden
024 7699 7703
https://eydensautolocksmiths.co.uk/
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Source Company – https://eydensautolocksmiths.co.uk/
Source: Digital PR
Release ID: 1200067
