Frequently Asked Questions

Our average response time is 15 minutes for central El Paso locations. Response times vary by area - typically 10-15 minutes in central areas, 15-20 minutes in outer areas like the far east or Upper Valley. We prioritize emergency calls and dispatch the nearest technician to your location.

Yes! We provide true 24/7 emergency locksmith services, including late nights, early mornings, weekends, and all holidays. Whether you're locked out at 3am or need emergency service on Christmas, we're here for you.

Yes, we provide free quotes over the phone for most services. We'll ask about your specific situation and give you an accurate price range. For complex commercial projects, we may need to assess on-site, but we always give you the final quote before starting any work.

We accept cash, all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), and debit cards. Payment is due upon completion of service. We do not accept checks.

Yes, we are fully licensed and insured to operate in El Paso, Texas. Our technicians are trained, background-checked, and certified. We carry liability insurance to protect you and your property.

Absolutely! We offer special discounts for active military, veterans, and seniors (65+). Fort Bliss service members and retirees receive our military discount. Please mention this when you call to ensure you receive your discount.

Yes! We can create a new <a href="/services/key-replacement" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">car key</a> even if you've lost all your keys. We use professional key cutting equipment and can program <a href="/services/car-key-fob" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">transponder chips and key fobs</a> on-site. We serve all makes and models including luxury vehicles like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi.

Basic <a href="/services/key-cutting" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">car key duplication</a> costs $50-$100. <a href="/services/key-replacement" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">Transponder keys</a> range from $75-$200. <a href="/services/car-key-fob" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">Key fobs</a> cost $100-$300 depending on your vehicle's make, model, and year. We provide exact quotes over the phone and our prices are typically 40-60% less than dealerships.

Yes, we have the professional equipment to program all types of <a href="/services/key-replacement" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">transponder keys</a> and <a href="/services/car-key-fob" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">key fobs</a>, including proximity keys and push-button start systems. We program on-site at your location - no need to tow your vehicle to a dealership.

Most car keys can be cut and programmed in 20-45 minutes at your location. Basic keys are faster (10-15 minutes), while complex transponder keys or key fobs may take 30-45 minutes for cutting and programming.

Yes! We use professional <a href="/services/car-lockout" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">lockout tools and techniques</a> to unlock your car without causing any damage to the vehicle. We never break windows or damage locks. Our technicians are trained in safe, non-destructive entry methods.

We service all makes and models including domestic (Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge), imports (Honda, Toyota, Nissan), and luxury brands (BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Lexus, Infiniti). If you drive it, we can help with keys and lockouts.

Yes, in most cases we can unlock your home without any damage using professional lock picking tools and techniques. However, if you have high-security locks or the lock is damaged, we may need to drill it. We always try non-destructive methods first and inform you if drilling is necessary.

<a href="/services/lock-rekeying" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">Rekeying</a> changes the lock's internal pins so old keys no longer work, while new keys do. It's recommended when moving into a new home, after losing keys, ending a relationship, or if employees/contractors had access. Rekeying is more affordable than replacing all locks ($25-$40 per lock vs. $75-$200 for replacement).

<a href="/services/lock-rekeying" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">Rekey</a> if your locks are in good condition and you just need new keys. Replace locks if they're damaged, outdated, low-quality, or you want to upgrade security (like adding deadbolts or <a href="/services/smart-lock-installation" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">smart locks</a>). Rekeying is more affordable, but replacement gives you better security and new hardware.

Yes! We install and set up all types of <a href="/services/smart-lock-installation" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">smart locks</a> including August, Schlage Encode, Yale, Kwikset, and more. We'll install the hardware, configure the app, connect it to your Wi-Fi, and show you how to use all the features. Smart lock installation costs $150-$350 including setup.

Rekeying a single lock costs $25-$40. For an average home with 5 exterior locks, expect $100-$150 total. This is much more affordable than replacing all locks ($400-$1,000+). We can rekey your entire house in 45-90 minutes.

We recommend a grade 1 deadbolt (the highest security rating) paired with a quality knob or lever. Popular brands include Schlage, Kwikset, and Yale. For maximum security, consider <a href="/services/high-security-locks" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">high-security locks</a> like Medeco or Mul-T-Lock. <a href="/services/smart-lock-installation" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">Smart locks</a> like Schlage Encode offer both security and convenience.

A <a href="/services/commercial" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">master key system</a> allows you to have one "master" key that opens all locks, while individual keys only open specific locks. This lets you give employees access to their areas while you retain access to everything. Perfect for offices, apartments, schools, and multi-unit properties. Systems range from $200-$500+ depending on complexity.

Yes! We install <a href="/services/panic-bar" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">panic bars</a> (also called push bars, crash bars, or exit devices) to meet fire code and ADA requirements. We're familiar with El Paso building codes and can ensure your installation is compliant. Panic bar installation costs $200-$600 per door including hardware.

<a href="/services/access-control" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">Access control systems</a> use keycards, key fobs, biometrics, or codes instead of traditional keys to control who can enter your building and when. They provide audit trails, remote access management, and can integrate with your security system. Systems cost $500-$2,000+ depending on the number of doors and features.

<a href="/services/magnetic-door-locks" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">Magnetic (electromagnetic) locks</a> use powerful magnets to hold doors closed. They release when power is cut (fail-safe) or when powered (fail-secure), depending on your needs. They're popular for interior doors in commercial buildings and integrate well with <a href="/services/access-control" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">access control systems</a>. Installation costs $250-$800 per door.

Yes! We're familiar with El Paso building codes and can ensure your commercial locks, panic bars, and exit hardware meet all requirements. This is especially important for businesses, churches, schools, and healthcare facilities. We can perform compliance audits and make recommendations.

Yes, we work with property managers, landlords, and real estate agents throughout El Paso. We offer tenant turnover services (rekeying between tenants), master key systems for apartment complexes, and emergency lockout services. We can set up commercial accounts for regular service.

Emergencies include: <a href="/services/emergency-lockout" class="text-primary-600 hover:text-primary-700 underline">locked out of car/home/business</a>, broken key stuck in lock, lock malfunctioning and can't secure your property, lost all keys, break-in damage requiring immediate lock replacement, or any situation where you cannot access your property or secure it. We're available 24/7 for true emergencies.

Emergency services during nights, weekends, and holidays have a higher service fee ($50-$100) compared to regular hours ($35-$50), but we maintain fair pricing 24/7. The actual service work (lockout, rekeying, etc.) costs the same. We always quote the complete price before starting work.

Stay safe and visible. For car lockouts, wait near your vehicle in a safe, lit area. For home lockouts, wait outside in a secure spot - don't hide or break in. Have your ID and proof of ownership ready. Call us at the number provided to check ETA if needed.

We don't recommend it. Breaking a window is expensive ($200-$500 to replace) and dangerous. Our emergency lockout service costs $35-$85 - much cheaper than a new window, and we'll get you in quickly and safely without damage. Plus, broken glass can cause injuries.

Yes, for your protection and ours, we require proof of ownership or residence. For homes, bring your ID matching the address. For vehicles, show registration or title. For businesses, show business license or lease. This prevents us from helping criminals and protects your property.

As an independent mobile locksmith, we have lower overhead than dealerships. We invest in the same professional equipment and training but pass the savings on to you. Our prices are typically 40-60% less than dealer prices. Plus, we come to you - no towing fees ($100-$300 saved) and no waiting at the dealer!

Our service call fee covers our mobile service and trip to your location. This fee is included in the total quoted price. We serve all of El Paso County with no additional charges for far locations within our service area. You pay the quoted price - no hidden fees.

If unexpected complications arise that would increase the price, we will always inform you first and get your approval before proceeding. We never perform additional work without your explicit consent. In most cases, our initial phone quote is accurate and that's what you pay.

Yes, we have a minimum service call fee that covers our mobile service and trip to your location. This varies slightly depending on whether it's regular hours or emergency service. Simple services like basic lockouts may just be the service fee, while complex jobs include both the service fee and labor/parts.

¡Sí! Hablamos español. We have bilingual technicians who speak fluent Spanish. When you call, you can request a Spanish-speaking technician and we'll be happy to help you in español. Servimos a toda la comunidad de El Paso.

Yes! We provide full locksmith services in Spanish. Our bilingual team can help you over the phone and on-site. We understand that many El Paso families are more comfortable speaking Spanish, and we're here to serve you in your preferred language.