Auto VIN to Keycodes

[bmc1284]

I'm looking for a backup service for those times that Discount Keycodes is closed due to weather (lots recently!)

Does anyone have experience with Autocode and their Smartphone app? Their prices look inviting, but I've never heard of them before.

[2octops]

Why do you need key codes?

Cars are easy to make keys for. Invest in some readers instead.

If you're buying codes because it's cold outside, work faster

[globallockytoo]

i'm always suspicious of codesmiths. If youre a true locksmith, you wont need a codesource.

[2octops]

I wish codes (or at least code brokers) would just disappear, kinda like Ford codes over 7 years old.

[alockguru]

I'm a NASTF member for keycodes.
Its funny the people complaining about retrieving key codes. Its rare I pull a code over another method so I'm in no way a "codesmith" but I can't deny the usefulness of being able to retrieve codes. It is another tool in my arsenal. Specially for those pacifica pin codes or when I am handed a list of fords to do. When Pressed for time its also wonderful for a vats job. IGN,DOOR + VATS# in 5 minutes? Yes please.

[bmc1284]

Agreed Guru... I use the Lishi tools 90% of the time, but if pulling a code gets me onto the next job quicker, and by the end of the day I've run 3 extra calls, well then I guess I'll take my "Codesmith" butt to the bank.

[bjornnrojb]

If your customer is cheap and doesn't want to pay a service call, they are going to the shop that can make a key by code from a vin, or code from their file cabinet, etc... If you are too good to cut a key on a code machine, then you are too good for a lot of easy money cutting keys over the counter.

[2octops]

If your customer is cheap and doesn't want to pay a service call, they are going to the shop that can make a key by code from a vin, or code from their file cabinet, etc... If you are too good to cut a key on a code machine, then you are too good for a lot of easy money cutting keys over the counter.

We are mobile only so we do not have these problems. The problems we have are the people that want to call themselves a locksmith and the only way they know how to make a key is with a code broker.

How do you handle customers that walk in for a car key by VIN, then return demanding a refund because the key does not work? They could be honest since not all codes are correct. They could also have just taken your key to the hardware store and gotten a duplicate for $2 and lied to you trying to get their money back.

I know shops that were doing this when codes first became popular but ran into this problem quickly and lost a lot of money from paying for codes and having charge backs done on credit cards and having to refund customers.

Keys by code for a file cabinet, etc are a moot point in this discussion. If the customer already has the code, it's a no brainer.

[smathis]

Its a time thing for us. We can have someone inside the shop call and get the code, tech pulls up, cuts it on an 1196fd, tests the key, then if it works cut it on an H84pt and program it. With the 10 minute by pass on hotwire my guy is done with a make keys in less than 15 minutes. And on to the next job.

But i do agree with knowing how if the code doesn't work being able to use a determinator or worst case pulling a panel. Our guys don't get a van till they have proven their abilities in the shop and in the garage.

[pick_fu]

Bmc1284 have you tried the Autocode app yet. After watching their video it looks like a total scam (seeing loading bars looks like a add-on to make it look like its doing something, "decoding the VIN" hmm). Is there any other good sites for VIN to Keycodes? Thanks!

[billdeserthills]

I just saw these guys in my national lock mag, 24/7 Key Codes, by American Key Supply
you hafta sign up first at www.americankeysupply.com/codes
or if you just wanna drive them nuts here is a phone #855-991-2633
or at 800-692-1898 or visit them online at: www.americankeysupply.com

[billdeserthills]

If your customer is cheap and doesn't want to pay a service call, they are going to the shop that can make a key by code from a vin, or code from their file cabinet, etc... If you are too good to cut a key on a code machine, then you are too good for a lot of easy money cutting keys over the counter.

We are mobile only so we do not have these problems. The problems we have are the people that want to call themselves a locksmith and the only way they know how to make a key is with a code broker.

How do you handle customers that walk in for a car key by VIN, then return demanding a refund because the key does not work? They could be honest since not all codes are correct. They could also have just taken your key to the hardware store and gotten a duplicate for $2 and lied to you trying to get their money back.

I know shops that were doing this when codes first became popular but ran into this problem quickly and lost a lot of money from paying for codes and having charge backs done on credit cards and having to refund customers.

Keys by code for a file cabinet, etc are a moot point in this discussion. If the customer already has the code, it's a no brainer.

The way we handle it when a client buys a key by code,is we tell them the key is guaranteed to be cut to the dimensions the code says, and if the key doesn't work we will credit the money paid for that key toward the time consuming project of removing a lock from their vehicle & making a key by hand to fit.

[bmc1284]

Bmc1284 have you tried the Autocode app yet. After watching their video it looks like a total scam (seeing loading bars looks like a add-on to make it look like its doing something, "decoding the VIN" hmm). Is there any other good sites for VIN to Keycodes? Thanks!

Ya, I've been using the Autocode for about 6 weeks now. The prices are better and the App works flawlessly, but for many types you have to input a NASTF number. Umm...if I had a NASTF number, I wouldn't be using Autocode!

I primarily use Discount Keycodes if I can't get the Lishi to read, but their prices have gone WAYYY yup lately ($50 for GM and $35 for Chrysler).