Shawn Fago
Master Locksmith
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Co-authored Articles (20)
How to Change a Battery in a Car Key Fob
A simple guide to opening a key fob & adding a new battery As you rush off to work, you click your car’s key fob to unlock the door…but nothing happens. The battery in your fob is dead, so how do you replace it? Luck...
Easy Ways to Find Your Lost Electronic Car Key or Fob
What do you do when you lose your remote car key or fob? Losing your car keys is almost debilitating and can happen to anyone! While having a remote keyless entry device makes life easier, it won't make things easier whe...
A Detailed Guide to Programming Car Keys & Fobs
''An easy guide to car key and fob programming'' Electronic keys are convenient and protect your vehicle from thieves. Luckily, many of these keys and fobs can be replaced and programmed at home. Order a replacement key ...
The Best Ways to Get a Broken Key Out of a Lock
Quickly fish out a snapped key using common household itemsIf you just broke your key in the lock to your house or car, there’s no need to panic! With a few household items, you can get back on track in no time. Keys c...
Don’t Panic! What to Do When You’ve Locked Your Keys inside Your Car
Channel your inner MacGyver with these DIY solutionsThere's no feeling more helpless than locking your car and slamming the door only to see your keys sitting there inside. But you're not helpless—you've got wikiHow! K...
How to Replace the Batteries in a Mercedes Key Fob
Simple steps for changing Chrome & Smart Keys If your key fob isn’t unlocking your Mercedes or starting the engine right away, dead batteries might be the culprit. We're here to walk you through the process for all 3 t...
How to
Cut Locks
If you've misplaced your key or forgotten the combination to a lock, you may need to cut through the lock in order to remove it. Luckily, with a few supplies from your local hardware store, you can break through the lock...
How to
Keep Car Doors from Freezing Shut
In cold weather, car doors can freeze shut, and typically at the most inconvenient time. You can end up with a door that refuses to open, a lock that refuses to budge, or both at the same time. But this is not an impossi...
Changing the Battery in a Nissan Key Fob: Altima, Rogue, & More
Replace your dead key fob’s battery in minutesIf you think your Nissan’s key fob might be dead, don’t panic! You can easily change out the battery using just a flathead screwdriver or a coin. In this article, we’...
How to Make a Copy of a Key: Simple Duplicating Methods
Your guide to making a key, either at home or with a professionalHaving a spare key is essential to save you from getting locked out if you ever lose your keys. There are many different options for making a copy of your ...
How to
Program GM Keyless Remotes
If you have lost your keys, or have just bought a new car, you will need to program a new keyless remote. There are three broad categories when it comes to GM keyless remotes: pre-2007, 2007–10 with VIC, and 2007 – ...
How to
Fix a Jammed Car Lock
There are all kinds of reasons a car door lock can get jammed. For example, the tumblers inside the lock might be clogged up by dirt or rust. On the other hand, the mechanism could be jammed up inside the door. Either wa...
Replacing the Battery in a Honda Key Fob: Step-by-Step Guide
A user-friendly guide to switching the battery in a Honda keyless remote Is the battery low in your Honda key fob? If you're having trouble unlocking your car or SUV from a distance, this likely means your battery needs ...
Key Broke off in the Ignition? Here’s How to Get It Out
Expert-approved tips for removing a broken car key If your car key broke off in the ignition, don't panic—you can usually get the broken pieces out without calling a locksmith. We spoke to Shawn Fago, a master locksmit...
How to Copy or Replace a Key Fob
Copy your key fob with an online service, locksmith, or RFID writerLose your key fob, or just looking to clone an extra copy? In this article, we’ll tell you how to copy your key fob with an online company, locksmith, ...
7 Quick & Easy Ways to Lubricate a Sticky Lock
Maintenance tips to keep door & car locks working smoothly If your lock feels stiff or it’s hard to insert your key, it might be time to lubricate your lock. Lubricating locks in your home or car is super easy and prot...
How to
Open a Jammed Locker
A jammed locker is a nuisance and a time stealer, but you don't need to make yourself late. Most jams come from books, packages, and other things pressing against the lock. Knocking that item free is often enough to open...
What to Do If You Lost Your Car Keys and Don’t Have a Spare
Who to call when you lose your only car keyYou’re heading back to your car after a long day, when you realize your pockets feel suspiciously empty. Your phone and wallet are accounted for, but your car keys are nowhere...
How to Rekey Locks without Calling a Locksmith
A step-by-step guide to protect your home and car You'll usually want to rekey the locks to your house or car because of a break-in, theft or act of vandalism. You may also wish to rekey your locks if you lose your keys,...
How to
Remove a Broken Key from a Car Lock
If you've just broken your car key off inside your car door's lock, you're probably a little shocked and unsure what to do. Don't worry! The process for getting the broken key out is pretty simple and will only take you ...
