Frequently Asked Questions
If you try to turn the key WITH THE DOOR OPEN and it is still hard to turn then try spraying some lubricant like WD-40 on the bolt when it is extended and also into the key hole. Turn the key in the lock a few times to spread the lubricant and see if that helps.
Did this key EVER work this lock well?
If it turns easily with the door open then perhaps one of the hinge screws is loose and the door is sagging. Try tightening the hinge screws.
If that does not work, have you installed weather stripping that might have changed the position of the lock to the lock strike plate causing it to rub? This can be handled by a strike adjustment, sometimes we must grind the strike a bit to accommodate the new position.
Simplest solution is that the lock needs lubrication.
Tinder company no longer does automotive work or car openings. We would like to warn people about unscrupulous companies who advertise $15 to open cars but demand much more when they arrive! Please be sure to use a reputable locksmith. We still cut automotive keys but no longer work on automotive locks or open cars. However, call us and we can recommend a GOOD automotive locksmith in your area.
We can usually re-key your locks in just a few minutes. Make sure to bring the existing, working key if you have it. Saves you money and us time.
To answer this question, take one of your keys and see if it FITS INTO each lock. It does not have to turn but if it fits in then we can usually key the locks alike to one key. If the key won’t fit into the lock it will require some new hardware to get your locks all keyed alike.
I must wiggle and jiggle to get my keys to work. Can you help?
Most often this is the result of a poorly cut key. If you bring in a poorly operating key for duplication, the copies will not be better than the key you brought in and most likely worse. When you get keys duplicated, make sure the one you are copying is a good working key. If you have no good working key we can try to decode the key and get you a key that is back to the original manufacturer’s requirements.
If it turns easily with the door open then perhaps one of the hinge screws is loose and the door is sagging. Try tightening the hinge screws.
If that does not work, have you installed weather stripping that might have changed the position of the lock to the lock strike plate causing it to rub? This can be handled by a strike adjustment, sometimes we must grind the strike a bit to accommodate the new position.
Usually, the simplest solution is that the lock needs lubrication.
Most often this is the result of a poorly cut key. If you bring in a poorly operating key for duplication, the copies will not be better than the key you brought in and most likely the problem will get worse. When you get keys duplicated, make sure the one you are copying is a good working key. If you have no good working key we can try to decode the key and get you a key that is back to the original manufacturer’s requirements.
Many people find it satifying to do some of the work themselves. You can save money by taking the locks off the door and bringing them to our shop for service or re-keying. Remember to BRING THE CURRENT KEY WITH YOU for best service.
No, Tinder Co no longer opens up automobiles or does automotive service. We encourage our customers to be very cautious when selecting a mobile automotive locksmith service. Unfortunately, many ads on the internet are scammers. We highly recommend American Lock 317 780-1907 for professional automotive lock services and openings. They do not have a web site currently.
