Frequently Asked Questions

At Lock Doctors, we realize you probably have many questions when it comes to choosing a locksmith for your security needs. The page below has been designed to answer some of the questions you may have. If we can assist you further, please contact Lock Doctors at at 972-966-6038 or 214-574-LOCK(5625). For your convenience you may also request services from this site!



Why is so important to use a professional locksmith?

Our locksmithing professionals at Lock Doctors have been expertly trained and certified in the locksmith industry. We are also bonded and insured for your protection. We have the necessary knowledge in locks, safes & security options. These skills are imperative for properly securing and ensuring your home, vehicle or place of business is safe and secure. There is much more to installing a lock then one would think. Specific adjustments need to be made to the frame in order for the lock to work properly and maximize its life. Our locksmith professionals also have the knowledge to suggest the most state-of-the-art products that can protect your most valuable possessions, your family!


What is a transponder key?

A transponder key is a key that has a device imbedded inside which transmits and receives data. These devices contain one of over a trillion unique codes. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder sends a signal to a disc-shaped antenna mounted behind the steering wheel. If the signal is recognized by the vehicles immobilizer, then the engine will start. If the signal is not recognized or has been compromised by damage to the transponder then the immobilizer will shut down vital operating systems to the engine and the vehicle will not run. This innovative technology is a tremendous deterrent against auto theft which also provides peace at mind to the vehicle's owner.


What are high security locks and why do I need them?

High security locks by Medeco are designed to restrict key duplication. These locks are also "pick proof" and drill resistant. Though high security locks are much more expensive, they are worth the investment. Something to keep in mind: though the initial expense of your new locks may seem extreme your long-term benefits make your new lock system installed by Lock Doctors, absolutely priceless!

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Why should I call a locksmith when I am locked out of my car?

If you are like most people, you have a big investment in your automobile. In years gone by, almost anyone could open a locked car using only one tool. It only took a second or two. However, in today's vehicles, the security of almost every car on the road has been tightened up so that it is to your benefit to own a vehicle that has a state of the art security system that makes burglary much more difficult. This means that a trained professional must have dozens of tools and techniques in order to work on your car with no damage. A creditable locksmith now has dozens of tools which make unlocking your vehicle effective and safe. That is why he or she must charge a fair price to open your car. In many towns, the police no longer will respond to lockouts unless it is a dire emergency. When you call the police, a tow truck driver, or any other unskilled person to unlock your car, you risk unnecessary damage to your vehicle. Police rarely have all the tools or special training needed to open your car without damage. Locksmiths are trained professionals that use finesse, not force. Call Lock Doctors today at 972-966-6038 or 214-574-LOCK(5625) to service you with the professional care you deserve.


What is a Master Key?

A Master Key is a key that is designed to operate all the locks in a specific group of locks. It is a myth that a particular master key exists that will open all locks. In order to master-key a group of locks the locks must all be made by the same manufacturer or at least have interchangeable keyways. In a group of locks that are master-keyed, each lock is operable by both its own individual key and the master-key. Each individual key operates its own lock only. The master-key operates all the locks in the group. Other systems are also possible using sub-masters, grand-masters, etc.


Can a locksmith cut a key from a number?

In many cases keys can be made by a locksmith from the code number of a lock. This is common with vehicles, padlocks, filing cabinets, etc. Requiring proof of ownership before cutting a key by code is a standard procedure used by security professionals in able to safeguard security.

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Can all the locks in my house use the same key?

Absolutely! Yes, your locksmith, Lock Doctors can assist you to do this. In most cases you can keep your existing locks and you can have your locksmith code them alike. This is referred to as "Keyed Alike.” An easy test to see if your existing locks are able to be keyed alike is to see if the one common key will enter the cylinders (keyway) on the other locks. Generally, if one common key will enter all locks, then they can all be "Keyed Alike". If your locks are not compatible, you may be able to use most of your locks, and need to purchase 1 or 2 to accomplish your goal. Your locksmithing professional, Lock Doctors will assist you so that minimal dollars are spent and you can have the peace of mind that you now have a lock system that you can rely on.


My keys have been stolen. Do I have to buy new locks?

Absolutely not! Your locksmithing professional at Lock Doctors can "re-key your locks". Re-keying a lock is the process of replacing the tumblers (pins, wafer tumblers) of a lock cylinder with new tumblers of different sizes. A new key will coincide with the new tumblers and the old key will no longer work. In other words, it is not necessary to buy new locks. Re-keying locks is something that should be done if you have moved into a new residence or lost a set of keys. Most automobile locks can be re-keyed as well. Re-keying locks is usually significantly less expensive than replacing locks.


Do I need to go back to the dealer to replace a security device in my keys?

Absolutely not! Most locksmiths can reproduce these keys, including the latest high security vehicle keys. In addition, your locksmith will save you money over the dealer because our professionals are usually more familiar with the locking system of the car than the dealer to begin with.

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Can I schedule a specific appointment time with Lock Doctors?

At Lock Doctors, we are equipped to handle emergency situations as well as scheduled appointments. In either case, we are flexible and will work around your calendar. Just give us a call any time of the day or night. We are here for you. We value our clients and try our best to keep all of our appointments. However, if for some reason we are unable to keep our initially scheduled appointment time, we will call you and work with you to find another time that suits your schedule. We also understand that there may be times when you need to reschedule. We simply ask that you call in advance (at least 24 hours if possible) to make alternate arrangements. Feel free to contact Lock Doctors at 972-966-6038 or 214-574-LOCK(5625) to schedule your appointment.


How fast will the locksmith be on site?

A locksmith will be with you approximately 30 minutes from the time you have called. Once we've contacted our locksmith, our office will ring you back with an exact arrival time so that you can have the peace of mind that we will soon be at your service.


Will the job be finished in one visit?

Yes. Occasionally, specialist equipment may be required which may have to be ordered in. In an unusual circumstance that the job can not be completed you will be notified and a subsequent appointment will be made to complete your project.

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I live in the Dallas area. Do you service my area?

Absolutely! Lock Doctors is proud to offer locksmith services to the Dallas metroplex including the cities of Addison, Allen, Altoga, Argyle, Balch Springs, Baronville, Branch, Buckingham, Carrollton, Cedar Hill, Cockrell Hill, Combine, Coppell, Copeville, Culleoka, Dallas, Denton, Double Oak, Desoto, Duncanville, Fairview, Farmers Branch, Farmersville, Flower Mound, Frisco, Garland, Glenn Heights, Grand Prairie, Hackberry, Hickory Creek, Highland Village, Hebron, Highland Park, Hutchins, Irving, Lake Dallas, Lewisville, Lancaster, Lavon, Lincoln Park, Little Elm, Lowry Crossing, Lucas, McKinney, Mesquite, Murphy, Navo, North Lake, New Hope, Oak Point, Parker, Plano, Princeton, Prosper, Roanoke, Richardson, Rowlett, Sachse, Saint Paul, Seagoville, Shady Shores, Sunnyvale, The Colony, Trophy Club, University Park, Wilmer, and Wylie.


We hope this page has answered some of the questions you may have. If we can assist you in any way, please contact Lock Doctors at 972-966-6038 or 214-574-LOCK(5625). For your convenience you may also request services from this site!


We would like to thank you for your interest in Lock Doctors and we look forward to serving you soon!

Bonded & Insured For Your Protection

972-966-6038 or 214-574-LOCK(5625)
Lic. #B12805

DFW Lock Doctors provides professional locksmith services to the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex including the cities of Addison, Allen, Altoga, Argyle, Balch Springs, Baronville, Branch, Buckingham, Carrollton, Cedar Hill, Cockrell Hill, Combine, Coppell, Copeville, Culleoka, Dallas, Denton, Double Oak, Desoto, Duncanville, Fairview, Farmers Branch, Farmersville, Flower Mound, Frisco, Garland, Glenn Heights, Grand Prairie, Hackberry, Hickory Creek, Highland Village, Hebron, Highland Park, Hutchins, Irving, Lake Dallas, Lewisville, Lancaster, Lavon, Lincoln Park, Little Elm, Lowry Crossing, Lucas, McKinney, Mesquite, Murphy, Navo, North Lake, New Hope, Oak Point, Parker, Plano, Princeton, Prosper, Roanoke, Richardson, Rowlett, Sachse, Saint Paul, Seagoville, Shady Shores, Sunnyvale, The Colony, Trophy Club, University Park, Wilmer, and Wylie.

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