What Does a Locksmith Do?
A locksmith is a trained professional who installs, repairs, replaces, and maintains locks and keys for homes, businesses, and vehicles. Beyond unlocking doors, modern locksmiths handle everything from emergency lockouts and rekeying to car key programming, smart lock installation, and high-security access control. In fact, industry data shows that less than half of locksmith calls today are simple lockouts, most involve advanced security or electronic key systems.
“People are often surprised by how much we do. A locksmith’s job is really about access, safety, and problem-solving—across homes, cars, and businesses.” - KeyMe Locksmiths
The Core Role of a Locksmith
At a high level, locksmiths help people:
- Regain access when locked out
- Control who has keys or access
- Repair or replace failing locks
- Upgrade security systems
- Solve key and lock-related emergencies
Modern locksmithing blends mechanical skill, electronic expertise, and security knowledge.
Residential Locksmith Services (Homes & Apartments)
Residential locksmiths focus on keeping homes secure and accessible.
Common Home Services
- Emergency home lockouts
- Rekeying locks after moving or lost keys
- Lock installation and replacement
- Deadbolt upgrades
- Smart lock and keypad installation
- Lock repair for sticking or damaged locks
Home security insight: Over 60% of residential locksmith calls involve rekeying or lock replacement, not emergencies.
Residential locksmith services: https://key.me/locksmiths
Automotive Locksmith Services (Cars & Vehicles)
Automotive locksmiths work with modern vehicle security systems.
Common Car Services
- Car lockout assistance
- Car key replacement (even without the original)
- Transponder key programming
- Smart key / push-button start fob programming
- Ignition repair and key extraction
Vehicle insight: More than 70% of vehicles on the road today use electronic or transponder-based keys, requiring professional programming.
Automotive locksmith services: https://key.me/vehicle-keys
Commercial Locksmith Services (Businesses & Offices)
Commercial locksmiths focus on access control, compliance, and scalability.
Business Services Include
- Master key systems
- High-security locks
- Access control and keypad systems
- RFID key card replacement
- Office lockouts
- Safe and vault services
“For businesses, locksmiths aren’t just fixing locks—we’re managing access, accountability, and security at scale.” - KeyMe Locksmiths
Commercial locksmith services: https://key.me/commercial-office-spaces
Emergency Locksmith Services
Many locksmiths provide 24/7 emergency support.
Emergency Situations
- Locked out of your home or car
- Broken key stuck in a lock
- Jammed or frozen locks
- Break-in damage requiring immediate security
Service insight: Emergency calls make up roughly 35–40% of locksmith requests, with lockouts being the most common.
24/7 mobile locksmith help: https://key.me/locksmiths
Key Duplication & Replacement
Key services are a major part of what locksmiths do.
Key Types Locksmiths Handle
- House and apartment keys
- Mailbox keys
- High-security and restricted keys
- Car keys (mechanical, transponder, smart)
- Key fobs and remotes
KeyMe also offers self-service key duplication kiosks for fast, affordable copies of many keys.
Find a KeyMe kiosk near you: https://key.me/kiosks
Modern Locksmiths & Technology
Today’s locksmiths work with more than metal keys.
Advanced Services
- Smart locks and connected devices
- Electronic access systems
- Vehicle immobilizer systems
- Digital key management
- Machine-learning-assisted key cutting
“Locksmithing has evolved. Today, we combine physical hardware with digital systems to keep people secure.” - KeyMe Locksmiths
What a Locksmith Does Not Do
A locksmith typically does not:
- Repair doors or windows beyond lock hardware
- Install alarm systems (unless specified)
- Duplicate restricted keys without authorization
Reputable locksmiths always verify ownership before creating keys or granting access.
When Should You Call a Locksmith?
Call a locksmith if you:
- Are locked out
- Lost your keys
- Moved into a new home
- Need locks rekeyed or replaced
- Want to upgrade security
- Need a car key or fob replaced
- Have a broken or jammed lock
FAQs
Is a locksmith the same as a hardware store key cutter?
No. Locksmiths are trained professionals who handle security systems, programming, and repairs—far beyond basic key cutting.
Can a locksmith make keys without the original?
Yes, especially for cars and rekeyed locks.
Are locksmith services expensive?
Many services are affordable—especially compared to damage caused by DIY attempts or security risks.
Do locksmiths work at night or on weekends?
Many, including KeyMe Locksmiths, offer 24/7 service.
Final Thoughts: Locksmiths Protect Access and Security
A locksmith’s role goes far beyond unlocking doors. From homes and cars to businesses and smart systems, locksmiths help people stay secure, regain access, and control who can enter their spaces, quickly and professionally.
Need a locksmith now? Call KeyMe Locksmiths 24/7
Need keys made fast? Find a KeyMe kiosk near you