Best Places To Buy A New Smart Key For Cars

Smart keys are sometimes called key fobs, but what this means is that there is no ignition cylinder and the car is started by a push button. There are a few ways you can replace lost or stolen car keys, but what is the best way to specifically buy new smart keys for cars? Smart keys have some more pressing concerns, but there are also general issues with some of the go-to locations for buying smart keys for cars. This is what you need to know about where to buy these smart locks.

Can you buy a new smart key for cars straight from the manufacturer?

Most car manufacturers do not allow vehicle owners to directly purchase a smart key for cars. Just go to the website of any car company and look for the smart key for your model. You will not find easily accessible direct purchasing information for a smart key for cars. The most that will be given is that you can find a dealership, but that might not be the best place to buy a new smart key.

Automotive companies control who has access to key blanks, and in most cases, it is near impossible to contact the company without using an intermediary. You will likely have to seek out an authorized third-party who has been given permission to sell smart keys for cars directly to the customer. This will inflate the price of car keys, but this can be diminished by purchasing a smart key from the proper location.

Can you buy a pre-programed smart key for cars?

Smart keys need to be in the presence of the car they are meant to open in order to be programmed. If a smart key for cars has been programmed, it cannot be reprogrammed. When a smart key for cars comes advertised as pre-programmed, this is either untrue, or it has been programmed to another car and will be useless to you.

A smart key for cars can only be programmed once. Even if the key has been invalidated by the car’s onboard computer, it cannot be reused. In this case, the unauthorized key, which is no longer paired with any car, will be useless to anyone.

Be Cautious of Third-Party Online Retailers

When car owners lose a key and have no spare, most people turn to the modern panacea, the Internet. This might not be the best place to buy a smart key for cars. It is true that the Internet is full of third-party retailers selling smart keys for cars, but the quality of each distributor is going to vary. This variance can be quite extreme, so I would advise anyone looking to buy a smart key online to proceed with caution.

The particular dangers of aftermarket electronic car keys are more difficult to detect because smart keys for cars do not always have a readily displayed key blade. In the case of something like a transponder car key, you can get a good idea of whether it has been used by looking to see if the key has been cut. You can also make mistakes with your purchasing and end up with a device that is faulty, or that does not pair with your particular vehicle.

Key Takeaways

• It is difficult to distinguish between good and bad online smart key sellers.
• There are less available methods for assessing the quality of the smart key you are purchasing.
• You will either have to program the smart key yourself or pay a professional.
• You are likely to get the lowest price with this option.

Avoid the High Prices of the Dealership

If you care about the cost of a new smart car key, and most people consider this a chief concern, the dealership will pose a rather large dilemma. That dilemma is that you are likely to encounter the highest price when buying any smart key for cars straight from the dealership. The reason for the historically higher prices has to do with the ease and reliability that most associate with getting work done on your car.

You are taking out some of the guesswork of whether you are hiring a person to get you a new smart key can do the work. The dealership will be able to get you a new smart key for any car they could sell you (unless the car is too old, but that is not really an issue for smart car keys), and have access to the literature that will allow them to properly program the key.

That being said, you are going to be paying for the privilege of not having to search for alternative vendors of smart keys for cars. The dealership knows that they are the go-to solution for many issues. They also do not rely on smart key replacement jobs, so they will be willing to charge a price without much concern for if you will look for a second quote. In fact, they expect that you will not shop around, so they rarely competitively price these services.

Key Takeaways

• A dealership will be the most expensive option for buying a smart key for cars.
• Dealerships are easy to find.
• You can trust that the dealership will get the proper key.
• The dealership can handle programing.

Choosing an Automotive Locksmith

The only thing you have to worry about when you go with a locksmith for buying a smart key for cars is choosing the right locksmith. The trick, if you can call it that, is to make sure you are reaching out to an auto locksmith. Once you have done that, you are that much closer to finding the best place to buy a new smart key for cars.

The next thing that you can do is shop around as you would when looking at online retailers. Call up the local locksmiths in your area. Get some quotes on prices. Locksmiths are often hesitant to provide prices over the phone because jobs can become more extensive than the customer is able to accurately represent. This issue is not present in regards to the price of a key. The largest variable is your make and model of your car, but that information can be provided rather easily.

One of the biggest reasons that you might find that a locksmith is the best place for you to buy any smart key for cars is they can do more. They can open your car if losing your keys has resulted in a car lockout. A locksmith can program smart keys. If there are more problems and services, they can handle them. But the most important thing is that a mobile locksmith can come to you. If you are not able to drive your car because of an issue with your smart key, this is invaluable.

Key Takeaways

• You will need to find an auto locksmith.
• The locksmith can come to your location.
• The price will be competitive.
• A locksmith can solve any other lock or key issue that you have while getting you a new smart key.

Closing Advice

It might seem bias to say the best place to buy smart keys for cars is from a locksmith, but I would not say that this is the argument I have outlined. The real point is that there are different pluses and pitfalls for every place you can buy a smart key for cars. Key fob replacement has many options, the best one will depend on your needs.

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How To Reduce Key Fob Replacement Cost

Most modern vehicles are paired with transponder keys and key fobs that help facilitate the ease of operation of a given vehicle. It might not sound like much, but the presence of a key fob allows for a more seamless connection between every driver and their vehicle. The key fob is often called a car key remote control, so car remote control replacement cost is synonymous with key fob replacement cost.

Although these key fobs are an important aspect of every modern vehicle, they are not impervious to damage or loss. If you are unable to find your lost car key fob, there is a chance you will have to get a new one. Any loss or damage that befalls your car key fob will give rise to the need for a key fob replacement. This occurrence is more prevalent than one might be led to believe.

However, the looming possibility of having to replace your car keys shouldn’t make you panic over the fear of the key fob replacement cost. Similar to the cost of car key duplication, there are several different avenues that can be explored to help you with your key fob replacement cost.

There are also different factors that come together to influence the cost. It is likely that your potential solution will be one of the places that make keys near you. This helps you rest easy because no matter what option you choose, you know it will always be close by. The simple virtue of being in close proximity helps reduce the key fob replacement cost. However, proximity will not always be on your side.

What is the average key fob replacement cost?

It is important to have some knowledge on the cost of key fob replacements before you attempt to reduce them. Doing so will give you a ballpark estimate of the price point you are trying to attain by reducing the car remote control replacement cost.

Similar to car key duplication costs and other automotive locksmith costs, a locksmith will charge anywhere between $90 to $120 to replace a key fob. This might sound like a lot, but it is merely a fraction of the cost that most dealerships might charge you.

Factors That Influence Key Fob Replacement Cost

I would say that you are already on the right path if you are looking for ways to reduce your key fob replacement cost. Before you choose any solution, you should be made aware of the factors that come into play in determining the key fob replacement cost.

This information will give you more insight into the things that you can do to reduce the costs associated with car remote control replacement. Ideally, if you can pinpoint the most expensive factors and influence the way they are handled, you should be able to minimize your key fob replacement cost.

Before I get carried away, I should warn you that cost pertains to more than just the monetary side of things. Most people often forget that time and convenience are extremely costly as well. This means that if you have to sacrifice time and the quality of the key fob replacement job, simply to save money, you should reassess your approach. Keep this in mind as we explore the factors that influence key fob replacement cost. Here are the main facets that determine the overall cost of a key fob replacement.

1. Cost Of Required Parts

Similar to many other key related replacements, the cost of the parts involved will influence the final key fob replacement cost. Key fobs are often confused with traditional mechanical keys, or with transponder keys. However, you should keep in mind that the cost of replacing a transponder key, or transponder key programming is completely different from the key fob replacement cost.

The parts required to replace a lost or damaged key fob usually consist of the key fob casing, the internal wiring mechanisms, as well as the batteries that are used to power the car key fob. The cost of these specific items varies based on the vehicle’s make and model.

2. Where You Replace Your Car Key Fob

The avenue that you choose to handle your key fob replacement with will also determine the key fob replacement cost. As I have already mentioned, there are multiple solutions that drivers can take advantage of when it comes to replacing car key fobs. Some of the most common solutions include requesting the services of a car locksmith, contacting your car dealership, or choosing to handle it on your own in DIY fashion.

The cost you incur for your key fob replacement will vary based on which of these methods you decide to use. The key fob replacement cost done through a locksmith will vary in price from the car remote control replacement cost handled by the dealership. There are also some additional costs that will have to be factored in. For instance, will your new key fob replacement have to be programmed to your vehicle? If additional services are rendered, the key fob replacement costs will rise.

3. The Type Of Key Fob Replacement

Another important factor that people often overlook when considering key fob replacement cost is the type of car key in question. Now, you should be aware of the fact that not all key fobs are built the same, which means that the replacement key fobs will not be the same. For instance, a Toyota key fob replacement will be much different than a Ford key fob replacement.

It is one thing to replace the batteries in your car key fob, and it is another thing to replace the car remote control entirely. The difficulty of this becomes evident when you look at the car key fobs for more modern vehicles. Everything about these key fobs is built to promote enhanced connectivity. Replacing this is something that is extremely difficult to accomplish on your own, so it is best left to the professionals who have the right set of skills and tools to handle this.

4. Time Required For Key Fob Replacement Solution

The time it takes to replace your key fob is also factored into the key fob replacement cost. Unlike most of the other factors that were discussed above, time affects the key fob replacement cost in multiple ways. For instance, if you have a complicated key fob that requires additional programming, the additional time will likely be reflected in the final key fob replacement cost.

Also, if you happen to tackle the key fob replacement on your own, a la DIY, you will potentially spend a lot of your time figuring out to replace and program your car key fob. Now, I am not saying that this isn’t a worthy endeavor, instead, I am merely pointing out the fact that there is too great a risk which is not reflected in the reward received. If something goes wrong while you attempt to replace your car key fob, there is a chance that you would have just wasted precious time for no particular reason.

Tips To Reduce Your Key Fob Replacement Cost

1. Think Outside The Box

When most people are faced with a car-related problem, regardless of what it is, their first point of call is usually to their respective car dealership. If you take the time to think outside the box, you will realize that you do not always have to rely on your dealership to help you with something like a car key fob replacement. This is not to say that the dealership is not a reliable source for car solutions. However, there are more cost-effective car remote control replacement alternatives out there.

Taking the time to contact local auto locksmiths near you might save you a great deal of money, and it will ensure that you do not have to travel far to get your car key fob replaced. The expectations of calling a car locksmith are similar to that of calling a residential locksmith. Most locksmiths offer mobile locksmith services, which means that they can easily meet you at your home to help you replace your key fob.

2. Think Preemptively

Sometimes it helps to plan for a key fob replacement scenario way before you even need one. The best way to do this is to take the time to make several spare car keys that are each programmed to your vehicle. Spare car keys help minimize cost in a big way. It might not sound like it saves you anything at all, but it really does.

Regardless of the outlet that you choose to use for your key fob replacement, you will most likely have to pay a service fee. Having a spare car key fob made when you get your original car key might help you circumvent any service related charges, and it can save you both time and money. This also potentially saves you from a scenario where you might be locked out of your car, or left stranded without a working car key fob.

3. Use A Combination Of Solutions

Another great way to reduce the key fob replacement cost is to combine several of the solutions that are at your disposal. From personal experience, the best way to save money on this process is to combine a DIY approach with the services of a locksmith. An auto locksmith’s cost for replacing a car key fob is much less than it is at the dealership, and this is the first factor that saves you money.

You could reduce your costs further by ordering the necessary parts for your car key fob replacement online. Purchasing parts of the car key fob on Amazon is a great way to go. This gives you an easy way to buy the casing, batteries and internal wiring for your key fob, which reduces the overall cost once you give the car key fob to a locksmith.

Calling your local locksmith beforehand, and letting them know that you have most of the basic parts necessary for your key fob replacement, will expedite the process without breaking the bank. Most car dealerships will be hesitant to work with car key fob parts that they did not provide, but a locksmith will gladly help you reduce the cost of your car remote control replacement.

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8 Best Fingerprint Door Locks That Enhance Your Security

Not very many people have used biometric locks during their lifetime, but most understand the basics of a biometric lock. I believe the credit for this should go to some Hollywood blockbuster or spy movie. A fingerprint door lock is a specific type of biometric door lock, and it is the most commonly used biometric door lock. There are several key benefits to utilizing a fingerprint door lock, chief among these is security. The list below will look at some of the best fingerprint door locks on the market today, and the ways in which they enhance your security.

8. Ardwolf A20 Keyless Biometric Fingerprint Door Lock

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Homeowners that want to take advantage of biometric technology in their homes will be relatively satisfied with what the Ardwolf A20 fingerprint door lock has to offer. The A20 is a battery powered fingerprint door lock that comes equipped with deadlocking latch bolts that are meant to reduce the likelihood of anyone shimming or jimmying your fingerprint door lock.

While the aforementioned processes might be great at getting you back into a locked car, they will not be successful against the Ardwolf A20 fingerprint door lock.This fingerprint door lock also gives homeowners and commercial business owners a plethora of ways to access their lock. The lock can be operated by using fingerprints, pin codes, mechanical keys, and the combined use of dual authentication.

Dual authentication simply means using two of the above measures simultaneously as an enhanced security measure. Another benefit of this lock is its price range, which will allow many homeowners and small business owners to use biometric technology without breaking the bank or stretching their budgets thin.

Key Features:

• Ideal for exterior use due to waterproof features.
• Multiple access methods make it ideal for multiple users and access control.
• Deadlocking latch bolt provides an extra layer of security.

Buy Ardwolf A20 on Amazon

7. Adel 3398 Keyless Biometric Fingerprint Door Lock

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The Adel 3398 fingerprint door lock is very similar to the Ardwolf lock that was described above and carries out most of the same functions with ease. Also, the price of the door lock makes it much more desirable to homeowners that are merely trying to get their feet wet when it comes to biometric technology. Homeowners and small businesses alike can benefit from using the Adel fingerprint door lock.

The lock makes use of 3 potential access methods. These are fingerprints, a password and the traditional use of a mechanical key. In terms of storage, the 3398 fingerprint door lock has the capability to hold up to 100 fingerprints, but is restricted to the use of only one password. This might sound limiting, but it is not that big of a deal.

In the average household, most people will not utilise a lengthy password, because it will be easier to operate the lock with your fingerprints. The same concept applies to office spaces that might want to use the Adel 3398 keyless fingerprint door lock. Your office space can be kept more secure by having employees access locks through their fingerprints, rather than having a large group of people using the same passcode to operate the lock.

Key Features:

• The Adel 3398 is rather easy to install and requires no additional wiring to be set up. It is essentially a plug and play lock.
• Stores up to 100 user fingerprints and provides audit trails that help you monitor the way the lock is used.

Buy Adel 3398 on Amazon

6. U-tec Ultraloq UL3

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Similar to the last two locks we looked at, the Ultraloq UL3 is relatively cheap. The low price point is because the lock is geared towards residential and commercial spaces. Residential properties do not require the same access control solutions as most commercial properties, so the Ultraloq looks to find a balance. It is a rather admirable notion, but one that might see this lock being far less secure than its counterparts, which is why it is occupying this position.

In a commercial setting, the U-tec Ultraloq is best suited for small business owners that want to use a fingerprint door lock on multiple interior doors. It is for this reason that this lock is on the list as one of the best fingerprint door locks that enhance security.

The lock boasts an IP65 water and dustproof rating, as well as an advanced fingerprint reading system that can store up to 90 users. Also, the lock places the keyway at the bottom of the lock body, in a bid to make it harder for people to exploit. However, do not be fooled into thinking that this lock is the ultimate security option because of this feature.

Key Features:

• Advanced fingerprint verification decreases the risk of error when reading fingerprints.
• Easy DIY installation process helps reduce the cost to change locks.
• The UL3 is a weather resistant lock that can be used on exterior doors in residential settings.
• Efficient energy settings helps the lock’s batteries last longer, which decreases the chances of getting locked out of your home or office.

Buy U-tec Ultraloq UL3 on Amazon

5. Yale YDM4109 (Mortise Lock) Fingerprint Door Lock

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The biometric fingerprint door lock that Yale brings to the table is, in many ways, reminiscent of what consumers have come to expect from the products that Yale and other prominent door lock brands have to offer. At first glance, one of the most striking things about the Yale lock is its sleek appearance, which (in terms of design) positions it miles ahead of some of the competition.

Yale incorporates multiple access methods, even though it is touted as being a fingerprint door lock. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but there is always a chance that these other access methods could be exploited to make the lock more vulnerable, but I digress.

The Yale YDM4109 fingerprint door lock features the one touch verification method which makes use of progressive scanning. Progressive scanning is a double edged sword that helps enhance your security while also increasing the ease of access that you have with your lock. The progressive scan feature captures your fingerprint in a more accurate fashion, which is something that other fingerprint door locks seem to lack.

Also, this lock has several features that make it one of the best fingerprint door locks to enhance your commercial security. For instance, the lock features an anti-panic egress handle that improves access during emergency situations like school shootings, etc. This is an integral part of building safety and security even though it is often overlooked.

Furthermore, the lock is equipped with a high-security mortise cylinder that can be operated by up to 20 fingerprints. Additional, the YDM4109 mortise fingerprint door lock has an automatic alarm that is triggered during break-ins or as a result of damage. The only potential downside of this lock is that it has a backup mechanical key, as do most fingerprint door locks.

Key Features:

• The Yale YDM4109 is a mortise lockset that can be used in either commercial or residential spaces.
• One touch verification method paired with progressive scanning reduces the chance of the fingerprint sensor being exploited. It also makes interaction with the lock more efficient.
• The presence of an automatic alarm is a feature that small businesses and homeowners can take advantage of.
• There is also an emergency supply terminal that makes the lock accessible in the event of a power loss. This simple feature allows you to maintain your security even after facing a power outage.

4. Marks USA 175 BIO Series

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The 175 BIO fingerprint door lock claims to eliminate the risk of replication and unauthorized use. This is something that every fingerprint door lock aspires to prevent, but very few of them have the features to actually do so. Marks USA attempts to solve this problem with their 175 BIO fingerprint door lock that is paired with a Grade 2 cylindrical lever lockset.

The cylindrical lever lockset is one of the common types of commercial door locks. If you know anything about the amount of force a lock can withstand, you will know that a Grade 2 lockset is not bad, but it is by no means as strong as a Grade 1 lock. However, in this case, the 175 BIO lock makes up for the lack of a Grade 1 lockset with the presence of additional security features.

The fingerprint door lock has a fingerprint reader that can store up to 100 users at a time, and also has an audit trail of 4000 events. Essentially, this means that commercial properties will be able to monitor the way in which their space is accessed on a daily basis. This enhances documentation of events and decreases the chance of unauthorized access going unnoticed. Also, the fingerprint reader is made to read 80 points on your finger, which makes it less likely that someone could bypass the reader itself.

There are some concerns to be had with the Grade 2 cylindrical lockset, but the lock is still very suitable for general commercial use. Of course, if you wish to increase the security of your office space, you can always take the time to install robust security measures that are built around your fingerprint door lock. Consulting with a commercial locksmith is one of the most efficient ways to accomplish this task.

Key Features:

• Optical Sensor that enables 80 point fingerprint capture for maximum security benefits.
• Capable of storing 100 user codes and providing an audit trail of 4000 events.
• Weather resistant lock body, which makes it great for outdoor use.

3. Westinghouse RTS Pin Code Lock And Fingerprint Door Lock

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The name Westinghouse does not carry the clout that it did in years past. You can chock that up to any number of reasons, but you will find that most of those reasons revolve around customer service issues. However, it is necessary for you to understand that not all Westinghouse products are made the same, so if you are holding a grudge against Westinghouse for their TV’s, you might as well let it go and pay close attention to the Westinghouse RTS Fingerprint Door Lock.

The RTS fingerprint door lock is primarily geared towards security-sensitive business environments that would like to have better control over their commercial security and access control. It comes with an optical finger sensor that works in conjunction with a pin code and a mechanical key. This lock can be equipped to run with additional software that gives commercial properties a wider of array of actions their lock can execute.

The fingerprint door lock utilizes a CMOS optical fingerprint sensor. A CMOS sensor is a nifty technology that is used to convert light into an electrical signal. This sensor is used to read the fingerprint in a timely fashion and then it verifies this against the collected list of fingerprint templates.

Key Features:

• High commercial grade lock body that allows the lock to surpass more than 2 million duty cycles. This means that your lock will last longer regardless of the number of people using it, and it will be that much harder for people to gain unauthorized access through forceful means.
• The lock has integration capabilities that are similar to smart home devices, which helps extend the way it can be used.
• This lock also allows you to transfer audit trails and view them on a separate device. Essentially, this means that there is no limit to the number of events you can track and account for at any given time.

Buy Westinghouse RTS on Amazon

2. ZKAccess TF1700

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Most of the locks discussed above had one flaw as a commonality, and that flaw was the presence of a keyway. Locks that have a key way present did so for the purpose of having an alternate means of access or as override protocol, which is a common feature in security safes. As we have pointed out in several different articles, all locks can be picked, especially if there is a keyway present. This mode of access makes the lock more susceptible to lock picking as well as lock bumping.

The ZKAccess TF1700 stands apart from all these other locks, and it does so by prioritizing security above all else. Do not think that this means the other locks are not secure, far from it. However, many of the fingerprint door locks that you can find on the market are trying to position themselves as hybrid products.

Take the Ultraloq UL3 for example. It is a fingerprint door lock that is attempting to fulfill the needs of both commercial properties and residential properties. In scenarios like this, it is most often the case that a key feature will be sacrificed along the way. The ZKAccess TF1700 sacrifices very little because it has a specific audience that intends to reach. This audience comprises of commercial property owners and business owners who are looking for better access control solutions.

Also, this lock is particularly well suited for exterior use and interior use. The TF1700 is IP65 rated for waterproof and weatherproof structures. An IP65 rating is an ingress protection marking that estimates how durable a product is against intrusion and some elements of nature etc.

Key Features:

• The ZKAccess lock boasts a impressive 1.5 second user recognition rate, which will make operations much more efficient and improve ease of access for its users.
• This lock stores 3,000 fingerprint templates and is able to record up to 50,000 transactions. This feature enhances security by providing a more dependable way to keep track of the who accesses the lock and when they access it.
• With an IP65 rating, the TF1700 can withstand many harsh exterior elements. Not many fingerprint door locks are able to stand strong against elements of nature, but the ZKAccess fingerprint door lock does.

Buy ZKAccess TF1700 on Amazon

1. Samsung SHS-P718 Fingerprint Digital Door Lock

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As far as a fingerprint door lock goes, the Samsung SHS-P718 (SHS for short) is one of the best solutions that have cropped up on the market. Before I allow you to get ahead of yourself, you should not expect this fingerprint door lock to be flawless. You should expect it to have several features that make it easier to use, while simultaneously enhancing the state of your commercial security. It can also be used on residential properties, but its price point might exclude some homeowners from doing so.

This fingerprint door lock utilizes a push-pull door handle that is meant to make the process of opening your door more efficient. Users are able to gain access to the lock by using fingerprints, RFID cards or a pin code. The primary access method is the fingerprint, but this fingerprint door lock has a double authentication mode, which gives you the opportunity to pair your fingerprint with another access method, thus strengthening your commercial security. Also, the SHS has the ability to store 30 pin codes and 100 fingerprints, which makes it an ideal solution for small businesses that want to explore different access control solutions.

Unlike some of its other counterparts, the SHS does not rely on mechanical keys as a default access method. Instead, there are 5 mechanical keys included with each lock that can be used as an emergency override, if the fingerprint door lock battery dies, or if there is some other power related issue that impairs its regular function.

Key Features:

• The lock utilizes dual authentication mode which works to keep your home and office much safer. This is done by requesting a fingerprint and a password before the lock can be used.
• The SHS-P718 uses a mortise cylinder that is housed inside a robust lock body.
• The patented push-pull lock handle allows the lock to consolidate the handle and the main body into one mechanism, which makes it harder to bypass.
• There is a built-in alarm that can be integrated with other smart devices to cast a wider net of security across your home and office. This means that the alarm within the door lock can be triggered if someone attempts to break into your office or home through a window.

Buy Samsung SHS-P718 on Amazon

Conclusion

Fingerprint door locks are exciting and efficient, and as people, we are drawn to products of this nature. Keep in mind that installing a fingerprint door lock does not mean that all your security woes can be thrown out the window. There are many changes you will have to make to accommodate your fingerprint door locks, and neglecting to do these things can really impair your security. Take the time to understand which fingerprint door lock will work best for your home or office, and then see if the security features that it has are enough to keep your property secure.

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How To Fix a Loose Door Knob or Loose Door Handle

Door knobs and door handles are a staple part of residential and commercial spaces. Often times, you will find them affixed to interior doors, and if they are used on exterior doors they are used in conjunction with a deadbolt (or another secure locking mechanism) that is used to bolster security. Since door knobs and door handles are so widely used, many property owners have had to deal with a loose door knob or a loose door handle at some point.

Dealing with loose door handles and loose door knob problems, in general, can be a hassle, but it’s one of the many responsibilities property owners have to shoulder. Similar responsibilities include learning how to fix a stuck door latch. These kinds of issues cannot be ignored because they will compound, and most door lock problems and broken door locks are much more serious than you think.

Today, the focus is primarily on the issues that lead to loose door knobs and loose door handles, and how to effectively correct these issues. In order to dive into this topic we have to first look at the different types of door knobs and door handles that are most commonly used. This will come to bear when we look at the ways in which these door knobs and door handles can be fixed.

Types of Door Knobs and Door Handles

The different types of door knobs and door handles are often denoted by the positioning of their screws. The types of door knobs and door handles are the exposed mounting screw door knob/handle and the hidden mounting screw door knob/handle.

Door knobs and handles that implement exposed screws tend to be found as parts of an older door lock. Issues with this type of loose door knob or loose door handle are relatively easy to resolve because you can see the way all the parts work together within the door mechanism.

Hidden mounting screw door knobs and door handles are of a much more modern design and they can be found on newer door hardware. These door knobs and door handles forego the use of an exposed mounting screw and opts to use a mounting faceplate that obscures the screws that are holding the lock firmly in place. It is for this reason that this style of door knob and door handle is slightly more complicated to fix than the one described above.

In a general sense, it is quite easy to remedy loose door knobs and loose door handles. Some property owners will be able to tackle this on their own by employing some DIY skills, but I understand that not everyone is comfortable doing this, and that’s ok. If you know you do not have the skills to tackle this then do not overexert yourself.

Doing so might result in you damaging your lock. Instead, contact a local locksmith that offers residential locksmith services or commercial locksmith services. They will able to assist you and effectively help you handle your loose door knobs and loose door handles.

What causes a loose door knob or loose door handle?

Now that you have a basic understanding of the type of door knobs and door handles that are used, we can begin the descent into what you need to know to fix them. Before we arrive at the final destination, we have to understand why some of these problems arise in the first place. This is ideal because it will help property owners avoid loose door knob and loose door handle problems in the future.

It makes no sense to solve the problem with temporary solutions. I want to make sure you are equipped to tackle loose door knobs and loose door handles should they ever arise again (which they probably will). Here are the reasons why loose door knobs and loose door handles occur:

1. The screws that are used to connect the components of the door knob and door handle have become loose over time. This often leads to the door mechanics becoming loose and wobbly, which means it will usually not work properly.
2. When it comes to older door knobs and door handles, age and maintenance play an important role. Over time, there are some parts that probably need to be switched out or properly maintained. The main culprits for this problem are the buildup of dirt within the lock mechanism, and also the buildup of dirt.
3. Another simple reason behind loose door knobs and loose door locks is that a screw within the door mechanism has broken off. This means that it impairs the smooth function of the lock.

Tools for Loose Door Knobs and Loose Door Handles

The tools that are required to resolve loose door knobs and loose door handles are very easy to come by, especially if you want to go the DIY route. If not, then you can skip to the next section. Most of these tools can be picked up for cheap at your local Home Depot.

Since loose door knobs and loose door handles incorporate so many screws, a standard screwdriver is a must-have tool. Keep in mind that the type of screwdriver you use will be determined by the style of screws that are used in your loose door knob and loose door handle.

How To Fix a Loose Door knob or Loose Door Handle

Now, let’s get down to the nitty gritty, really fun stuff. As I mentioned earlier on, loose door knobs and loose door handles are not necessarily very difficult to fix, but you have to make sure that you fix them in a timely manner, and that you know what you are doing. Loose door locks and loose door knobs can leave a gap in your security if they are left unattended. So here’s what you have to do:

1. Tighten Internal Screws Loose Door knob or Loose Door Handle

In order to tighten the screws in a loose door knob or loose door handle, you need to work on removing your loose door knob or loose door handle from the door that it is currently on. However, before you begin to do this, you should take the time to adequately determine which type of door knob you have in place. As a quick recap, the two types of door knobs and door handles are the exposed mounting screw door knob/handle and the hidden mounting screw door knob/handle.

To remove a loose door handle that uses an exposed mounting screw, you need to find the set screw that is holding the door handle securely in place. Once you have located the set screw you will be able to unscrew it and remove the handle that gives you access to the internal mechanics of the lock and the rest of the screws holding it in place.

These kinds of door knobs and door handles, come with a faceplate that needs to be removed as well. After you have successfully taken off the loose door knob or loose door handle, you can work on tightening any screws that are loose within the door knob or door handle.

For door knobs and door handles that utilize hidden mounting screws, things can be a bit tricky. Tricky doesn’t necessarily mean more difficult. Essentially, you will need to replicate the process discussed above, but hidden mounted screw door knobs do not have any set screws in place. Instead, they make use of a door knob detents. Door knob detents are used to fasten a door knob or door handle to its corresponding spindle without the presence of any visible screws.

The door knob detents are spring-loaded mechanisms that have to be depressed for the faceplate to be removed successfully. Once the faceplate is removed, you can gain access to the internal screws. Once you gain access to the internal screws, the process becomes much easier to tackle. If there is a decorative trim or faceplate in place, it has to be removed so you can work on tightening the screws.

2. Tightening the Setscrew of the Loose Door Knob or Door Handle

The solution to this problem is relatively simple. Its simplicity stems from the fact that it is easy to identify the problem, and it is a problem that only affects one type of door knob. Since the set screw is used to connect the door knob or door handle to its adjoining spindle, it only affects exposed mounting screw door knobs and door handles. If you turn your door knob and it doesn’t move the latch, it is often a sign that the cause of your loose door knob or loose door handle is a set screw that is not properly in place.

To rectify this problem, you simply have to try and find the set screw. Some door knobs and door handles have the set screw on their interior which makes them easy to find. However, for others, you might have to unscrew the exposed screws in order to gain access to the set screw.

3. Repair or Replace Any Damaged Parts

In some cases, the issues with your loose door knob or loose door handle could extend beyond some misplaced or loose screws. When this happens, it is usually the case that some important components within the lock are worn out or damaged.

These problems could stem from a broken spindle or a door knob trim that is rusted or held up by debris and dirt. The range of problems that could leave you with a loose door knob or loose door handle can only be assessed after you take your door handle apart to gauge the extent of the problem.

Most of the other methods that have been discussed had relatively easy solutions that does not require the purchase and installation of new parts. If you are uncomfortable carrying this out, do not hesitate to contact a professional locksmith who offers damaged lock repair services, or who can help you change the locks and door knobs you currently have installed. In some cases, you will not need to buy a whole new door knob set, because you simply have to get a few small parts.

Final Thoughts

Loose door knobs and loose door handles are relatively common problems, but they can be easily remedied. The trick is to make sure that you address the issue early before it escalates into something much worse. As I pointed out, do not hesitate to contact a locksmith to assist you with this problem, especially if you do not think you can tackle it yourself.

The post How To Fix a Loose Door Knob or Loose Door Handle appeared first on United Locksmith.

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7 Simple Solutions To Fix A Car Key That Won’t Turn In The Ignition

So you are asking yourself, “my key won’t turn in the ignition, what do I do?” The best thing to do is to keep everything simple. Below are simple solutions that you can use to solve the issue of a key that will not turn in your ignition. Some of the seemingly simple fixes can get complicated, so be sure to keep your eyes out for anything that increase the difficulty of your needed repair.

1. Turn the Steering Wheel

The most common reason that a car key will not turn is that the steering wheel has locked. This will happen when the steering wheel has been moved after the key has been removed from the ignition cylinder.

1. Turn the steering wheel to the right and left.
2. Note what side the wheel cannot be turned to, and the direction that has give.
3. Pull the steering wheel in the direction that has give, and hold it there.
4. Turn the key toward the accessory position while keeping the steering wheel turned.
5. If nothing happens, rock the steering wheel as you turn the key.
6. If this does not work, rock the steering wheel as you jiggle the key in the ignition.

You can mix and match with the methods of turning the wheel and moving the key. As soon as the key turns the steering wheel will unlock, and the car should start. If the key does not turn, then you may have a more severe issue.

2. Lubricate the Lock

A very prevalent cause when a car key won’t turn in the ignition is that the keyway of the ignition cylinder is a little jammed up. Just lubricating the lock may be enough to solve your issue. You will say that WD40 is often the go-to example for lubrication of any kind, but I would not recommend it in this case.

It is a classic debate in both the locksmithing and the lock picking hobbyist community as to what the best lubricant is for locks, so at the risk of starting a controversy, I will recommend either using a silicon or graphite based lubricant. Essentially, you are looking for something that is not going to collect dust, grime, and particulates over time, which will eventually jam the lock’s internals to a greater degree.

You can use WD40 as long as you are going to be changing out the ignition cylinder after you turn the key successfully. When you are going to replace it anyway, it gunking up further over time does not matter.

1. Gather your lubricant, key, and cloth.
2. Spray the lubricant into the keyway of the ignition cylinder.
3. Wipe away the overspray or anything leaking from the keyhole.
4. Insert the key and turn it.
5. If this does not work, jiggle the key.
6. If this does not work, add more lubricant and repeat.

In cases where this goes minutes without working, lubrication is not the answer when your car key won’t turn in the ignition.

3. Rapping the Key

Beyond lubrication, you might need to try something more severe to unjam your lock. It is true that bump keys do not work on cars, but by using a hammer or a vibrating mechanism and your key that won’t turn in the car, you might be able to solve your issue. This “rapping”, if you will, is meant to shake internal components in the lock into the proper position.

Springs can get lost, or other small parts of the inside of the lock can get stuck. Where lubrication can fail to unstick or get things to move properly, you can shake things temporarily into positions, just in time to turn the key properly.

The tool that you use does not need to be a hammer. It can be anything that can create a noticeable vibration that can be applied to the key and/or the cylinder. The idea is just to get the inside of the lock to move more than you could by shaking your key, car, or dashboard.

1. Place your car key in the car’s ignition.
2. Use your tool on the key while trying to turn the key.
3. If this does not work, try to use your tool on the ignition cylinder.

Just be very difficult about the amount of force you use in this process as you could damage your key, the ignition, etc. If you are trying to hit your key hard enough to break a locking mechanism, operate with extreme caution as your desire to break things might be more successful than you intend.

4. Fix The Key

Sometimes the problem is with the key you are using, and addressing that particular point of failure is the only option for solving the issue when the ignition key won’t turn. If the key is broken, all hope is not lost. Sometimes you can fix a broken key. This is not always the case but it is possible.

The most important part of this process is figuring why your car key is not working. This will then allow you to discover the many different ways the variety of complications can be solved. As long as you can get your key out when your car key won’t turn in the ignition, you should be able to investigate the car key.

• Try a spare car key, and see if a different key will work.
• Compare the car key that won’t turn in the ignition.
• Look at the bitting on the blade of the key for any wear.
• Examine for any twists, bends, or breaks.

Fixing the key can actually be very simple, you just need to know what is wrong. If the issue is not clearly visible, assume there is something wrong with electronics.

5. Replace the Key

The most simple fix when there is something wrong with your car key is to just replace the key. There is always a way to copy a broken key. No matter how the key is broken or whether this is something you do yourself or a task that you contract out, there is a solution.

There are several ways to approach this process.

• Find an aftermarket electronic car key and choose a way to have it cut, and perhaps have a transponder chip programmed.
• Buy your supplies and get your service at the lock and key section of your local hardware store.
• Contact a locksmith.
• Contact your car dealership.

In terms of how much it costs for car key duplication, the number will go up or down depending on how much you do yourself. Contacting your dealership being the most expensive option as it is the most obvious and requires no real time into research. Contacting a locksmith being the middle ground in terms of price, and handling all the work yourself being the cheapest option.

6. Replace the Ignition Cylinder

If the problem is not with your key, then the reason your car key won’t turn in ignition might have to do with a faulty ignition cylinder. You will likely not have to replace the entire ignition assembly. And unless your car does not start when the key finally turned you will not even need to undergo ignition switch replacement.

As long as you buy the proper ignition cylinder, ignition cylinder replacement does not have to be complicated. Make sure you are buying the right product for your make and model of vehicle, and understand that this process will leave you with an ignition key that is unique from your car door/trunk key. Rekeying will be necessary to remedy this issue.

1. Turn your key to the accessory position
   1. This can be done with some of the methods listed above (2 or 3, mainly).
2. Find the locking pin on your ignition assembly.
3. Use a tool of the correct size to depress the lock pin.
4. Pull the old ignition cylinder lose.
   1. You might need to shake the ignition cylinder loose or finesse it out of its housing.
5. Insert your new key into the new ignition cylinder.
6. Fit the new ignition cylinder into the housing.
7. Allow it to lock into place.
8. Remove your key.
9. Test to see if the car will start and the key will won’t turn in car ignition.

It can get a little hairy if you cannot use one of the methods above to get the key to the accessory position. If the key will not turn in the ignition, period, you might have to take the steering column apart and this will cease being a simple solution.

7. Call a Locksmith

When you start out by saying, “my key won’t turn in the ignition,” you might end up saying, “I need a locksmith”. A locksmith can help with any issue where a key won’t turn in the ignition of a car. If you are worried about how much a locksmith costs, know that it should be more reasonable than other avenues of professional help. There are three main reasons your ignition key won’t turn, and we will get into how a locksmith can help.

My Key Won’t Turn In the Ignition Because of the Steering Wheel Lock

For something as simple as your steering wheel locking, it is not likely to be essential for you to contact a locksmith. It would behoove you to be very patient with performing the process described in the first section of this article (Turn the Steering Wheel).

If you have a new car, it is unlikely that the key or ignition has worn out. But if there is some evidence of a break-in, the reason your ignition key won’t turn might not be something as simple as the steering wheel locking. In this case, if you cannot unlock your steering wheel and don’t know why your key won’t turn in the ignition, this is when you should call a locksmith.

My Key Won’t Turn In the Ignition Because of the Key

When there is something wrong with your car key, a locksmith is often the best option for solving the issue. Unless you have a spare key, avenues such as a hardware store are not going to be able to provide you with a duplicate once the key is already broken.

A locksmith will have key cutters and blanks for every type of car. If the key is worn or broken, there is no issue, as a new key can be cut from code. Where the dealership might rake you over the coals, in terms of price, a locksmith can deliver all the services you need at a more competitive rate.

My Key Won’t Turn In the Ignition Because of the Ignition Cylinder

Ignition cylinder issues are some of the most difficult to detect and fix, and it is often overlooked when people are trying to figure out why their car won’t start or why their key won’t turn in the car ignition. Though it is possible to do this work yourself, a locksmith can solve any complications that rear their head.

Replacing the ignition cylinder can get rather complicated in this specific case, where you can’t turn the key in the ignition. Taking the steering wheel covers off, or manipulating the key as needed can create many opportunities to damage your automobile further. When your car key won’t turn in the ignition, do not let that lead to needing a mechanic and a whole lot of money. Turn to a locksmith before things get out of hand.

Closing Thoughts

Diagnosing the reason your car key won’t turn in the ignition is the best way to begin the process of fixing the issue. If you cannot determine the problem your car is having, it is best to contact the professionals. Calling a locksmith is always a simple answer, but the rest of these simple solutions can get complicated depending on your skills and situation. Take care to contact a more seasoned technician before things move from a complicated fix to an expensive fix.

The post 7 Simple Solutions To Fix A Car Key That Won’t Turn In The Ignition appeared first on United Locksmith.

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How To Lock A Door Without A Lock

Come one come all! Today, I am going to share an exciting magic trick with you, the likes of which you have never seen, not even from the great David Copperfield. Forgive me for the excessive theatrics. I am, in fact, not going to perform a magic trick. I apologize for the letdown, but it is much better to ask for forgiveness than permission (or maybe it’s the other way around).

Although I will not be outlining the details of a magic trick below, I will be talking about something cool and I believe we can all benefit from a little ‘cool’ these days. Today I will show you how to lock a door without a lock. How to lock a door without a lock? Yes, you read that right. In case you think you’re seeing things, I will repeat it once more. Today, I will show you how to lock a door without a lock.

Alas, you might be wondering if this goes against the moral code of the Lock Blog, but I assure you it does not. Although locks are commonly used as the primary locking mechanism on doors, they are not the only available solutions. I feel like I just let you in on a guarded industry secret, but there’s no such thing, so let’s get right into learning how to lock a door without a lock.

Why does knowing how to lock a door without a lock comes in handy?

The primary purpose of any door lock is to keep things secure. Installing a door lock on a door is one of the best ways to secure a door, but there are other alternative solutions. Learning how to lock a door without a lock comes in handy because it gives you a more versatile skill set. In fact, you can totally include this in the section of your resume that asks you how to lock a door without a door lock (I joke, I joke). In all seriousness, knowing how to lock a door without a lock can really help you elevate your security and get you out of tight spots.

What kind of tight spots am I referring to? Let’s say you damage your bedroom door lock late at night and you would rather avoid calling a 24-hour emergency locksmith, even though you should call them. Instead of having to sleep with your door ajar, wouldn’t you prefer to have alternative locking methods? Knowing how to lock a door without a lock is a great solution for your broken lock.

If that example doesn’t persuade you, let’s imagine that you take a trip to lovely Honduras, which ranks highest for global murder rate, wouldn’t you want to have the benefit of fortifying your doors with some of the cool methods we are about to discuss? Learning how to lock a door without a lock will help you deal with damaged locks or doors that do not have locks installed on them.

Taking the time to learn how to lock a door without a lock can help you improvise emergency locking solutions in dire times like active shooter situations, and it can be the very thing that helps save your life. Are you convinced yet? I hope so because we are about to go on a magic carpet ride (no we’re not, but you catch my drift).

How To Lock a Door Without a Lock

1. Add a Portable Lock

Not every door is equipped with an effective locking mechanism. The easiest solution is often the most simple and straightforward one. That is why the first answer to the question ‘how to lock a door without a lock’, is simply to add a portable lock. This solution works great for doors that merely have handle sets attached to them.

Some doors are equipped with handle sets that do not have any locking capabilities. These kinds of doors are often found in some commercial buildings and in residential properties. They are commonly used as connecting doors between common areas or as bedroom doors in hostels or homes. Primarily, they are interior doors.

However, if the need for a lock arises, one can always be added. Now, I do not want you to think you’ve been duped because I’m talking about adding a lock. Adding a lock doesn’t necessarily mean you have to contact a locksmith for a lock installation or even install it yourself. I understand that the people who need answers to the question of how to lock a door without a lock, desire a timely and efficient solution.

In lieu of using traditional door locks, portable locks can be used to lock a door without a lock. Portable locks are very popular among tourists and travelers who want to maximize their travel security. Although, I think their use can be extended to some commercial and residential spaces as well. These add-on locks are easy to install and they can effectively lock a door without a lock in a matter of minutes.

There are a wide variety of portable door locks that people can choose from, so it’s always best to choose the one that best fits your needs. These locks are usually fitted on the side of the door that opens towards the area you want to keep locked and secure. This kind of portable lock is mostly meant for use on internal doors and is not particularly suited for guarding exterior entry doors. As far as internal use goes, portable door locks prevent doors from being opened from the outside, even by people who might have a key. Some common examples of portable door locks are the traveler’s security lock and the Addalock door mechanism.

Advantages

• Portable door locks are lightweight and efficient. This means they can easily be carried anywhere. This makes them a prime personal security measure and tool that can be taken advantage of in emergencies.
• Using portable locks to add a lock to a door can be done in minutes. Most of the products are geared towards being easily installed. Hassle free installation is a plus for many users.

Disadvantages

• Adding a lock to a door can prevent it from being opened by traditional means. However, it offers very little resistance to brute force attacks. Most portable door locks are not able to withstand force in the same way a secure deadbolt can withstand force being applied to it.

2. Disassemble the Handle set

Enjoying the magic so far? I hope you are because there is still a lot more to go. In the pursuit of learning how to lock a door without a lock, we arrive at the solution of disassembling the handle set or door knob. You should be aware of the fact that not all doors with handle sets and knobs have locks to accompany them. As I pointed out, some doors are not initially constructed with the primary mandate to be locked, but this can always change. If you need to lock a door without a lock, you can always resort to removing the handle set and door knob.

A lock does not always have to be present for something to be locked and secured. The process of locking is meant to restrict access. If you are able to restrict access without a lock, then you have successfully locked a door without a lock. Most door handlesets and door knobs make use of spindles to connect both halves of the door set. The handle turns the spindle, which then retracts the latch to open the door.

If the spindle and the outer door handle and door knob are removed, your door will effectively be locked. This method prevents the latch in most doors from being retracted, which keeps the door securely closed. This process is rather easy to carry out and can be done with simple tools like a screw driver.

This method restricts access, but it also impairs egress as well. It is important to take this into consideration for residential and commercial spaces that might have specific safety plans in place. Ideally, you do not want to be trapped behind a door, struggling to open it in the midst of an emergency. The door can always be opened from whatever side you are on because you will have access to the necessary parts. However, you will have to take the time to put them all back together again, a la Humpty Dumpty.

Advantages

• This solution is able to provide a locking solution on inswing doors and outswing doors.
• The process is relatively easy and can be carried out on most interior commercial and residential doors if you have access to a screw driver.

Disadvantages

• Disassembling the door handle and door knob poses a safety hazard because it restricts egress.
• This locking solution does not prevent someone from kicking in the door or accessing a certain area via forceful physical attacks.

3. Use an Improvised Barricade or a Constructed Barricade

The process of barricading a door can be done to doors that have locks and those that do not. Since we are trying to learn how to lock a door without a lock, we will be focusing on the latter. One of the most important things you have to be aware of before you barricade a door is the way it opens. Traditionally, single doors open either inswing or outswing.

Ideally, you should be barricaded against the direction that a door opens, if not your efforts will be futile. This same concept applies to sliding glass doors and double doors as well. The reason is simple. If you do not barricade against the direction that the door opens, whoever wants to open the door can remove your barricade solution.

Unlike some of the other methods we have already discussed, you can barricade exterior doors and interior doors as well. In addition to the primary mandate to keep a door locked and secure, barricades are also meant to withstand the application of excess force. This means that the ideal barricade should be able to resist kicking, ramming and other forceful attacks. Barricades can either be improvised or pre-constructed.

Improvised barricades are made by stacking various items against a door. They are usually stacked in the direction that the door opens. In constructing an improvised barricade, you need to choose materials that are proportional, in size and weight, to the door that you are barricading.

Choosing items that are much smaller and lighter than the door they are meant to secure, your barricade will be easily thwarted. Some of the best items to use for barricades include chairs, desks, bed frames, or other heavy objects that can be stacked against a door. Ideally, the base of your barricade should always be an item that extends past the size of the doors entryway. A barricade should effectively secure your door from top to bottom.

Pre-constructed barricades require fewer materials than improvised barricades. Security bars are a common example of pre-constructed door barricades. They are placed along door entryways, in opposition to the direction that a door opens. Door barricades can also be fitted to the base of the door itself. A perfect example of these kinds of barricades is the Nightlock residential door lock barricade or the Haven smart lock.

Advantages

• Unlike most alternative door lock solutions, barricades focus on minimizing the impact of forceful attacks. If a barricade is effective, it can withstand excessive amounts of force.
• Improvised door barricades are cost effective and can be put together by combining easily accessible objects like desks, chairs, bed frames etc.
  Constructed barricades are very easily installed. Also, they do not impair egress, which makes it easy to exit a room in the case of an emergency.

Disadvantages

• Barricades cannot be used to secure the front end of left-hand inswing doors.
• Improvised barricades are not usually as strong as constructed barricades.
• The strength of your improvised barricade will depend on the items you have around you, which leaves your safety and security up to chance.

4. Utilize Door Jammers and Door Wedges

Door jammers and door wedges are similar to constructed door barricades. The main purpose of these devices is to restrict the mobility of the door. However, they are much smaller than your average barricade and often focus on guarding specific sections of a door. These tools work as great solutions to lock a door without a lock and they do not take up nearly as much space as the door barricades that were just discussed above.

A majority of these tools are designed to be placed at the bottom of a doorway or along the door frame. They restrict the type of momentum that is necessary to open a door and this essentially keeps the door locked and secured.

Door jammers can be used on doors in residential and commercial spaces. The versatility of door jammers and wedges is dependent on their size. Similar to a door barricade, you should know how a door opens so that you appropriately position your door jammer. If you place the door jammer on the wrong side of the door, it will be removed and your ‘lock’ will be ineffective.

Wedges are primarily placed on the bottom of a door, while jammers and stoppers can be placed under the door handle or under the door itself. Restricting the mobility of the door handle is one of the best ways to prevent it from being used to open a door. Also, most of these jammers use the door’s weight and the force being applied against it. This effectively keeps the door securely held in place.

Improvised door jammers and wedges can be constructed from everyday household items like chairs and shoes. Securely wedging a shoe at the bottom of a door can help keep it securely in place. Alternatively, propping angling a door to rest under a door handle or door knob prevents it from being turned. Locking a door without a lock does not always involve traditional locks, but these type of door jammers can be used on doors with traditional locks as well.

Advantages

• Wedges, door jammers and door stoppers, are great tools for restricting the mobility of doors and door handles.
• Improvised wedges and stoppers can be constructed from everyday household items.
• This solution works well on doors that do not have any handle sets or knobs.

Disadvantages

• Wedges are mostly suited for doors that open inwards and rely on force being exerted on the opposite end of the door.
• Improvised wedges are not as strong as constructed wedges, and they will not last long as solutions for locking a door without a lock.

5. Anchor the Door Knob or Handle Set

Anchoring the door knob or the handle set of a door is primarily geared towards doors that open outwards and away from the space you want to keep secure. When it comes to doors like these, most of the locking solutions that were discussed above are at a disadvantage.

This is because doors that open outwards usually give the person opening the door the upper hand. If there were a barricade placed in their way, they would easily be able to overcome it. Anchoring a door knob or handle set can be used on inswing doors that open towards the body of the person trying to open the door.

It should be noted that anchoring a door knob is somewhat of an improvised method. To accomplish this, you will need a material that connects your door knob to an anchor point. Ropes, extension cords, and belts have all been successfully used as connecting materials. It should be noted that the strength of the connector you use will determine the strength of your lock. To lock a door without a lock, you will have to tie one part of the connecting material to the handle of the door, and then tie another part around a solid anchor point.

An ideal anchor point is a solid material that is securely anchored down to the ground. Anchor points are often solid beams that counteract the force that is being exerted to open a door. If you are trying to lock multiple inswinging doors, one of the best things to do is to anchor the doors to each other. That way, each door will act as an anchor point to the other.

Advantages

• Utilising an anchor point is mostly effective on doors that open outwards toward the person opening it.
• Anchor points can be made of cost-effective and easily accessible materials that most people will have access to.

Disadvantages

• An anchor point solution will not work without the presence of the something to securely tie the door handle to.

Additional Security Considerations

Learning how to lock a door without a lock is undoubtedly exciting, but that should not distract you from the core purpose of any lock. As most of you know, a lock is put in place to keep a place or location secure, and that is its primary mandate. As such, there are few security considerations that you have to take into consideration when you are figuring out how to lock a door without a lock. Most of these considerations have been addressed in the sections above, but I would like to reiterate them:

1. Always know how the door you want to lock opens. Implementing any of the above solutions on the wrong side of the door will be ineffective.
2. Know when to use improvised solutions and when not to use them. If you have the luxury of time, try your best to choose constructed locking methods like security bars and residential lock barricades.
3. Locking a door without a lock will be ineffective if there are other easy access points around the door that are not secured. If you secure the door, take steps to secure windows, glass panes and any other weak points that can be exploited.
4. When using door wedges, jammers, and door stops, make sure that they cannot be accessed from the bottom of the door and pushed out of the way. Take the time to seal of any open spaces that can be compromised.

Final Thoughts

That, folks, is the end of my magic trick. I hope that showing you how to lock a door without a lock has proved truly beneficial. I know that most of you will not utilize this information immediately. However, I still believe it will come in handy, and not just as security insight for doomsday preppers. Armed with this knowledge, you will be able to secure doors that have broken locks, doors that have no locks, and even doors that do not have adequate locks installed. As always, if you have any suggestions on other cool ways to lock a door without a lock, please leave a comment below.

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4 Best Locker Locks To Lock Up Your Locker

I want to begin by acknowledging the presence of Master Lock padlocks on this list. I have shared many times my how Master Lock even going as far as including the company as one of the brands that security experts love to hate. But to paraphrase myself, “Not every product that this company puts out is terrible, but the terrible products certainly outshine the good.” Some make for good locker locks or maybe the best gym lock for your needs.

The thing about locker locks is that, much like great storage locks, it only pays to have them be so secure. Lockers are themselves so insecure and are rarely owned by the people using them (meaning the true owners are justified in removing your security as they see fit). All of this is to say, your focus may not be on having the best possible security. And even the best possible security can only accomplish so much.

Disclaimer

The locks on this list are not necessarily recommended outside of the purpose of being used as locker locks. Some of the locks on this list may provide very little security. This lack of security will be expressed in the description of each particular lock. Outside of being locker locks or gym locks specifically, most locks on this list will not provide the security needed for other tasks. And in the case of gym security, there is more to know than what would make for the best locker lock.

4. Master Lock Standard Combination

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If you are looking for safety in the crowd, this combination padlock provides the best method of blending in. You can use the Master Lock Standard Combination to find security in the herd. If it is singled out as an individual based on the value it holds (or the perception of value), the lock will not hold up against most attacks.

This is not one of the locker locks that is going to provide you with much in the way of actual physical security, so I would not recommend its use if you have valuables you are storing in the locker. But if all you have are a change of clothes, it will accomplish the most basic task of suggesting to an opportunistic criminal that they should look elsewhere.

The lock is also extremely inexpensive (a price matching its level of security). For children who need locker locks for school lockers, a combination lock is good because they can write down the numbers discreetly in a notebook they carry with them, whereas losing track of a key can create a bigger issue. As a gym locker lock, it also allows you to not take a key with you to exercise.

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3. Master Lock Speed Dial

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One step up from the Master Lock Standard Combination, the Master Lock Speed Dial, which offers shimming protection. This is one of the most important and basic levels of security a padlock should have. A lock such as this will keep kids looking to make mischief or low-skilled thieves from being able to open your locker locks.

Some people also find the combination system to be much more user-friendly than a standard combination dial. You can also reset the combinations on these to make things easier. I would recommend using a combination that can be remembered must be weighed against something that would be obvious, easy to guess or stumble upon.

A combination lock, as already expressed, is great for locker locks because you will not have to carry a key. If you lose a notebook with a few directions (left, up, up, down, right, left, up), this is not obviously a combination and does not necessarily compromise your lock. But if your combination for this lock is compromised, it can be changed without replacing the lock.

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2. Master Lock Padlock Bluetooth

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If you are interested in the convenience of an electronic lock or a smart lock for the purpose of locking up your locker, this is your best option. It is really not a horrible lock. There is shimming protection, water protection, and a port to use a 9-volt battery to temporary give the lock a charge if the internal battery dies.

You can have your cell phone in your pocket and the lock will open without you having to use a combination. But if you want to put your cell phone in your locker, you can turn this feature off and open the lock with a combination. They have really thought about practicality with this lock, except for one feature.

The lock itself is not very strong. When struck by something like a hammer, the lock will fall apart. However, most school security makes sure kids don’t have objects like hammers, so a kid’s locker should be fine. For a gym locker lock, a hammer strike might be hard to differentiate from clanging weights, and there is nothing to prevent someone from bringing in a hammer. Most likely this will not be an issue if you are not targeted, but it is good to know.

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1. Stanley Hardened Steel Padlock

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The Stanley Hardened Steel Padlock makes it on almost every recommended padlock list I write. It is often described as one of the lower security options, even if it is one of the best padlocks of all time. In this case, it is the highest security lock I would recommend. Once you go beyond this level of protection, you are not really achieving better security.

With something like the Stanley as your gym locker lock or for all of your locker locks, it is going to make more sense for the criminal to attack the locker. You do not have any control over the security of the locker itself. Many modern gyms use plastic and wood composite wood doors or thin steel lockers. School lockers can be pried open and the metal can be bent in a way that leaves an opening large enough to reach through.

Throughout the history of padlocks, a padlock has only been able to protect containers to a certain degree. If the container is insecure, or more insecure than the lock, that is going to be what criminals target. The Stanley padlock is going to give them little choice other than that. It does have a key, but the core is interchangeable so you can have it work with the same Medeco key you have on your front door to limit the number of keys you are using.

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Final Thoughts

If you are looking for the best padlocks of all time, you should read that particular article. These are what I believe to be the best locker locks. Outside of use for school children or as a gym lock, the majority of these locks are not going to do the job of protecting things that are extremely valuable. These locks are to make the best out of a bad situation. Or in some cases, these locks are just to give you the slightest peace of mind.

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