Your personal consultant:

Ric answers questions about Lock Security.

Submitted: 01/15/10

Q: How do you open a door lock when its knob breaks off while you're inside a bathroom and without any outside help?

A:If reinserting the knob is not a viable option, then locate either a flat steel rod sticking out of the lock's base and turn it, this should release the lock, then turn the base neck (where the knob should be). Perhaps use tissue paper for a firm grip. The door latch should disengage immediately...if your lucky!



Submitted: 01/16/10

Q: I had a handyman install a new deadbolt lock on my kitchen door, but the key fits very tightly. He claims the lock is defective, but it was working fine before he installed it. How can I have this fixed without wasting my time?

A:Try loosening the screws on the lock by half to one full counter turn. If this doesn't improve your deadbolt lock's function, try some WD-40 penerant oil. Make sure the straw enters as far as it can inside the lock cylinder. Also, check that the key is not bent, this creates heavy friction against the cylinder keyway. Your best remedy is to call on a certified locksmith. Check on our Locksmiths Referrals page to locate one in your area.



Submitted: 01/17/10

Q: My Ford F-150 was broken into through the driver's side door lock. The lock amazingly still works but it looks all twisted-up. What will it cost to have it fixed without ending up with a different key?

A:Your Ford Lock must be damaged. Check out our Car Locks Repair page. We can replace all the damaged parts while preserving its original key code. This is a very economical alternative to purchasing a brand new car door lock.



Submitted: 01/17/10

Q: Can I buy through the internet, a ¨chip¨ key already programmed to my car?

A:Absolutely not! Anyone that claims such a thing without having access to a working transponder key or to your car's computer ABII port, is quite possibly a scammer.



Submitted: 01/21/10

Q: I lost the key to my Mailbox Lock in my apartment building complex. How can I have it replaced without getting into trouble with the post office?

A:I don't believe you'll get into any trouble with USPS as long as you have a proper working mailbox lock installed on your lid. Check on our Mailbox Locks selection page to locate the right lock for your mailbox.



Submitted: 01/22/10

Q: I'm having ignition start-up trouble when I try to start my 96' Pontiac Sunfire, could it be a key switch problem?

A:Possibly. Your vehicle is old enough for its magnetic security sensor, which is built into the ignition lock cylinder, to be now failing. You are probably having a red intermittent "SECURITY" icon lighting up somewhere on your dash guage. A quick replacement of this worn-out GM cylinder should do the trick. Check-out our General Motors Car Locks page and get your new ignition lock keyed to your existing Sunfire key.



Submitted: 01/23/10

Q: HELP!!! My store's padlocks are regularly vandalized with super glue, match sticks and even with broken key fragments, how can I help prevent this? Is there a special security padlock that is vandalism proof?

A:There are no vandal proof locks but many High Security Padlocks do seem to be vadal resistant, particularly those with restricted key ways. Periodically apply a generous coating of lubricant oil inside the cylinder, this will at least help prevent any glue from adhering. See our Security Padlocks product page.



Submitted: 01/24/10

Q: Why does my Windstar / Ford Remote lock button not work yet all the other button functions work just fine?

A:Automobile remotes use micro spring switches, with wear they stop bouncing onto their electronic board contacts, specially when continually pressed hard as with the edge of a finger nail. Many times their button membranes are pierced, allowing moisture and dirt to accelarate contact corrosion. Look for the key fob accessory in our Ford Locks product page for a replacement.



Submitted: 02/10/10

Q: I have a keyed Profile Cylinder that sometimes spins freely but will not operate unless I retry several times. Is my Door Lock broken or is it the keyed cylinder?

A:My best guess is that the Profile Cylinder's tail piece is worn-out. This is a simple fix. Remove the retaining screw which is parallel to the keyed cylinder on the edge of the latch mechanism. Then jiggle out the Profile Cylinder Lock while rotating the inserted key and replace with a new Security Profile Cylinder Door Lock. Note: the tail piece and cylinder is a single unit.