Williams Lock Service

05/24/2026

I hope everyone is having a great holiday weekend! As we've moved into our prime getaway season here in Michigan, I've been getting increased requests for campers and RV keys and lockouts. This is a friendly reminder to all the glampers out there, keep a key in your pocket so you don't lock yourself out of your shelter and potentially even your vehicle by proxy. If you're phone is locked up another camper will usually be happy to help you find someone, or the campground office can find someone for you. If you've lost your camper or RV keys, I can help! I'll do the deep dive to determine the keys you need and hand cut them to match each of your locks. Lost an ignition key to your RV...? We'll talk. If I can't help I can tell you who can.

Pro tip! Keep your camper and RV locks clean and lubricated with Re*****on Gun Oil to extend their life span and keep them operating smoothly.

WLS takes emergency requests 7 days a week and is available to help this holiday weekend and Memorial Day.

☎️ Call or text (616) 255-9819
Visit williamslockservice.com/ to learn more about WLS!

Your trusted locksmith service for Greenville, MI and Montcalm County

05/15/2026

What to do if your key breaks.

A broken key can be hectic, and depending on the scenario can raise a lot of concerning questions. Keys can often break off flush with or even inside of a lock which can lead to a few things, for one, if the key broke in a position that all expected cuts are in the correct place, that lock can now be manually unlocked by anyone, while it's likely to go unnoticed for you to deal with later after work, it's not a great idea to take that chance and leave that unattended.

So you go through your garage looking for the pliers, you try to pull the key out, but it's no good. It's broken off flush with the face of the lock and you can't get a grip on it. So what now?.. Well you can remove and replace that lock if you still have another way into the house and that door isn't shut and locked and you are handy with a screwdriver. Try to look for exact replacement locks if you go this route, it can save you a lot of trouble. Different locks can have different door prep requirements.

If you're locked out of the house and your only way back in is broken off in that lock you could break a window and potentially spend $300-$500 or more to replace it, if none of them are unlocked but for less than half that cost you could call a locksmith out and let them take care of it. Any good locksmith will have key extraction tools and thorough knowledge of your lock's construction, broken key extractions are usually relatively quick and low cost compared to a lot of the alternative options. Letting a locksmith handle it can save you a lot of time, expense, and hassle.

If you need help dealing with a broken key situation, reach out!
Call or Text (616) 255-9819

Visit https://williamslockservice.com to learn more about WLS or request a quote!

Your trusted locksmith service for Montcalm County

05/13/2026

A while back I'd gone to look into helping out a local business, they were having trouble with their keying set up. They had a high employee turnover rate and were calling locksmiths from the Metro area to regularly handle it. Those locksmiths had them set up so that all locks were keyed alike. Now, they'd limited the number of key holders after the first few times it came up but every lock still needed to be rekeyed every time a key change was needed. In addition to that, they had to have exterior doors always locked due to contractual requirements so several employees had been propping the door open on breaks due to their lack of exterior access, which would be a violation of the company's contractual obligations, employees who respected those obligations often found themselves locked out and unable to return to stations after their breaks.

With one short trip the business owner had a new simple 2 level master key system, with a designated employee entry, meaning the next time a key change was required for an employee turnover, it would be limited to just a couple doors. The owner and upper management still have single key access to everywhere they need to be, with the ability to change out other keys in the system without affecting theirs or interrupting access for anyone.

The real silver lining here was the owner making the choice to install an e-plex lock on that employee entry, that allowed access via a combination key pad. Newer employees now just get a personal entry code, only the shift managers have a key to open the employee entrance in addition to other areas they're allowed to access, and now when an employee is let go, their access code can be dropped by the manager on the employee entrance lock without ever needing a service call for a rekey. This drastically reduced the constant need for lock rekeys almost entirely, only needing a call-back when higher level employee key holders are let go.

Williams Lock Service doesn't go out of the way to try to upsell you on something that you don't need or provide any expensive quick fix that's really just a band-aid for a bigger problem. I don't just sell locks and do quick in-and-out repairs. I sell long term solutions that solve your problems and put your security concerns on the back burner so you can focus on your business!

To schedule a free quote for your business visit
https://williamslockservice.com/quote
Call or Text
(616) 255-9819

Your trusted locksmith service for Montcalm County

05/11/2026

How often should you change your locks?

The short answer, it depends.

Have you:

-Given out key copies to people over the years who may have been loose with those copies, or potentially made copies without your knowledge?

-Recently lost a key chain containing your car and house keys?

-Recently evicted a roommate or tenant under less than fortunate circumstances?

-Recently purchased a new home, business, or other real estate?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions then you need a rekey yesterday. Of course every situation varies, but in general, a key change is a good idea for all of these scenarios.

For anything else that comes up, like repairs or replacements, repair or replace as needed! The only thing changing your keys will do is stop any keys you don't know about from working. It's not something that's done for maintenance but rather from necessity and saving costs. If you haven't answered yes yet, it all comes down to one last question.

Are you comfortable with where your key situation is at after reading this?

If you finally answered yes, then rekeying the locks should be the last thing on your mind. You should be trying to identify that weird new bird that showed up on your feeder.

Now, if you mean change the locks in the sense that you replace them, as previously stated, replace them as needed. If your latch isn't retracting all the way into the door, it's a good time to replace it. Turning is rough or the hardware seems to bind, that's another red flag it's getting too worn. The signs are usually pretty easy to feel and see when they come up.

Have an electronic combination lock with a numeric keypad? How are those buttons looking? If the 4 you've probably been pressing repeatedly show wear, that lock isn't very secure anymore, it's gone from having 10,000 potential combinations to 24. Where it get's scary is that of those 24 possible combinations (less if you use a digit twice), 23 of them are usually quickly eliminated by the owner's use of birthdays or numbers people who know them could easily guess. If you get to pick 4 digits for a combination code, pick 4 random digits that have zero meaning to you or anyone in the household and commit them to memory. This greatly improves your security in one easy step. Now, It'd take a while for someone to run through 24 possible combinations with timeouts programmed into most smart locks, but by scale it's much more achievable than 10,000 potential combinations.

For more security tips visit

Your trusted locksmith service for Montcalm County

05/09/2026

🐢It feels like a scaly Saturday at Williams Lock! Anyone save a turtle lately? Drop photos in the comments below!! 🐢

Always wait for traffic to clear and make sure it's safe to proceed with helping a turtle cross the road.

Always carry them across in the direction they were already traveling

If you can't handle them, try to shoe or heard them across if able to do so safely

Be safe out there and thanks to all our local turtle taxis!

05/08/2026

🚗You've lost your car keys, what now?🔑

Losing your car keys is frustrating enough without the added stress of confusing pricing or unexpected delays. At Williams Lock Service, we aim to make the replacement process as smooth and transparent as possible — and that starts with understanding what’s actually involved when a key is lost.

🚗 Not All Vehicles Are the Same
One of the most important things to know is that not all vehicles handle lost keys the same way. Some cars can be programmed with a single replacement key, while others — especially newer models or those with advanced anti‑theft systems — may require two unique keys to be programmed in memory in order for the vehicle to function properly.

🧠 Why Two Keys?
Certain domestic manufacturers, like Ford and Chrysler, use systems that require a minimum of two working keys to complete the programming process in an all‑keys‑lost situation. This security feature prevents unauthorized duplication and theft — but it also means:

Both keys must be cut and programmed at the same time.
Extra time, labor, and equipment may be needed.
In some cases, vehicle systems must be reset or security codes retrieved from the manufacturer.
💵 Why Prices Vary
Because of these technical differences, pricing for lost car key replacement varies by vehicle make and model. Here are a few factors that influence cost:

🔐 Whether the vehicle requires 1 or 2 keys in memory
🚘 Type of key or fob (traditional, transponder, proximity, or smart key)
⏱ Time required for programming or immobilizer bypass
🧰 Whether modules must be reset or replaced
📍 Travel distance if you’re requesting mobile service
Tip: If your vehicle still has one working key, it’s often cheaper and faster to make a duplicate before you lose the last one.

✅ What You Can Do
📞 Call us at (616) 255‑9819 with your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
🆔 Be ready to provide proof of ownership (required for all key originations).
🕒 Understand that some scenarios may take extra time — we’ll always explain what’s involved.

Williams Lock Service has good coverage for domestic vehicle manufacturers using standard double sided transponder keys, call or text to see if your vehicle qualifies for service or get help connecting with a trustworthy auto key specialist!

Your trusted locksmith service for Montcalm County

05/06/2026

GM Flip-key Friendly Habits

Many of us driving newer non push-to-start GM vehicles use the switch blade remotes. There's a couple things worth noting about these as they're common enough to have seen this more than a few times. These key blades are held into their mount by a small roll pin. Having a hole drilled in through the side of an already narrow key, this creates a weak point in the key where if small amounts of pressure are regularly applied, over time the key blade rips and breaks around the roll pin. You'll usually notice this when your remote yeets your key blade across the lawn like a gadget from a James Bond movie.

So now a friendly tip! Between that weak point on the blade and the fact that the piece of plastic holding the key blade on isn't entirely solid either, DO NOT hang anything more than a house key or two on your keyring with it. In general you should observe that rule with any vehicle, even with keys that handle the weight better, their ignitions don't hold up well to the additional abuse.

The more weight pulling on the end of your flip-key while it hangs out of the ignition, the more likely it'll break. That said you'll wanna keep that weight to a minimum with these guys. Yes, I'm looking at you, with the 600 pop icons, event lanyards, misc weapons, and combo compass bottle opener on your keychainsaw of mass desctruction... 🧐

Pro tip: If you push that little silver button and nothing pops out (key is gone), the first place you should look for that key blade is your ignition switch because it might be broken off just about flush in that lock. And look you should, because if that's your only key, having that blade can save you a lot of money on the replacement. Alternatively check the driver's side floor, and if you're good with ballistics calculations you can always check in the last direction you remember "flipping" it.

Unfortunately due to machining limitations I can only copy these keys and can't replace them entirely, but if you run into a situation don't hesitate to reach out! If I can't help you, I can send you to some reputable automotive locksmiths who specialize in vehicle keys.

If you need a locksmith in Montcalm County, Mi
Call or text (616) 255-9819
or request a quote

Your trusted locksmith service for Montcalm County

05/04/2026

You just bought a new home (Congratulations!), the realtor hands you the keys. There's 5 of them and they all work something different. You've got moving. updates, cleaning and detailing, maybe even some painting all on your plate before moving in. What's more, there's no telling how many of those keys have copies floating around town with who knows who. You know you can't leave things on these keys for long. So now what? You could go out and spend a $200-$300 to get new locks to replace the ones that are there, adding one more task to your plate. Or you could call a locksmith to rekey those locks and replace only what's needed to get everything on one key, probably save some money and definitely avoid the hassle. On average complete rekeys cost between $20-$40 less than full replacements even after service charges, so why not let a professional handle it?

A Locksmith can handle any issues that arise in the process of installation like changes in door prep, strike alignment, fit and finish issues, and hinge tweaks. Any of those things can turn that quick task into a several hour long ordeal if you don't have the proper tools or experience to tackle them.

If you're looking at buying a home or already purchased, reach out to WLS via call or text to inquire about the best way to secure your new home!

call or text
(616) 255-9819

get a quote

Your trusted locksmith service for Montcalm County

05/02/2026

Just a friendly reminder, as a courtesy to Greenville residents and businesses, Williams Lock Service will travel to your location to copy keys within Greenville city limits! The going rate is $20, which covers travel, time, and 2 copies (does not apply to automotive keys). Additional copies after the first two are just $2.50 each + tax. If I don't have your blanks I can order them. I can usually head right over when available or schedule for same day service. Cash or card accepted for payment. I'd rather take this service to your door than see anyone using a KeyMe kiosk. It's also a great opportunity for local businesses to get a free quote for their door and lock problems while on-site as well!

Call or text (616) 255-9819, message on Facebook, or visit
https://williamslockservice.com to discover services offered in your area!

Your trusted locksmith service for Montcalm County

05/01/2026

Rekey or Replace?

Trying to figure out if you should rekey your locks or replace them can be confusing. Let's breakdown the difference and lock at when each option is useful and practical!

What's the difference?

Rekey - Your existing lock is taken apart and fit with new pins to work with a new key.

Replace - This one's actually pretty self explanatory, you have a new lock.

What to consider..

If something comes up, like a missing key or trust issue with a key holder, you COULD replace all of the locks with keyed alike packages (though stores rarely have many of a single combination in stock in one place), that can actually get more expensive than just calling a locksmith to rekey the locks you already have. With a locksmith rekey you end up spending less money, keep the locks you already have, AND you don't have to do any of the work!

If one of your locks is broken or working very poorly, then it may be a good time to consider replacing it. A locksmith can help you out with that too, possibly even repair it instead! I usually ask my customers a few questions to get any idea of what they're using, sometimes they'll send a few quick photos for clarification, and I'll make a recommendation on brands to purchase. This way you have the opportunity to select something you like that matches your aesthetic and can shop it out for the best price possible, and ensures your new locks match your current keys. Once you have your hardware picked out, we can schedule an appointment and get it taken care of. You get the new lock of your choice installed and keyed to match your existing keys, without dealing with any of the hassle.

It's just a couple screws, how hard can it be?

It's true, lock assembly is very simple on paper. Many swaps are completed in a few minutes by a professional, a half hour or less by someone handy with a screwdriver. But sometimes your hardware can throw curveballs. If you purchase a non-adjustable backset lock and end up with the wrong backset, you have to solve for that. If your latch plates are profiled square but your door was prepped for radial latch plates, you'll have to chisel out the edge of your door. Sometimes your new locks might not even align the same as the old ones with the strikes on your frame, which can require hinge adjustments to the door, strike plate modifications, or relocation. A simple job with 2 screws can turn into a big headache, fast if you're not used to tackling these tasks and didn't foresee them coming up. Who wants to spend more money for an experience like that when you could pay less, kick back and enjoy your Saturday?

If you need a locksmith in Montcalm County, MI
Call or text: (616) 255-9819
Get a quote:

Your trusted locksmith service for Montcalm County

04/29/2026

As a local locksmith in Montcalm County, MI. I see my fair share of lakeshore communities and campgrounds. It's just getting into RV season and calls are starting to come in, so I'd like to take a moment to discuss your camper locks.

It's not uncommon to lock your keys in your camper, it usually happens when the lock is set while the door is open. You shut the door without thinking about it only to realize you left the keys inside. Don't panic if this happens, if there are unlocked windows you can access, try to send someone through to unlock the door from the inside. If your windows are locked, your only two choices to get back in are either breaking a window or calling a locksmith. The locksmith is usually much cheaper and leaves you with an intact camper to finish your vacation in comfort. Replacing a window is a whole thing that will likely end up costing you 3x as much.

Sometimes camper locks can be fidgety, being wafer locks, they'll typically have a lot of play and as such they wear down over time. This doesn't mean that they won't last the life of your camper, but that you do have to consider maintenance a little more than most locks. Every other year you should apply some Re*****on Gun Oil or other silicone based lubricant to the key holes and work the keys in and out, and turn them repeatedly. If operation has been a little stiff you can also apply some to the latch and deadbolts using the key and handle to work the lubricant into the moving parts.

If you lose your camper keys, there's a chance a camper / RV parts dealer can replace them for you. The keys that operate your cabin doors on most RV's and campers are typically pre-cut at the factory. I'm also able to order replacement keys for you in most cases for these, sometimes shipping them without ever needing a trip on-site, or dropping them off for a small local delivery fee.

Safe camping this summer, enjoy nature and watch for turtles on the road!

For more security tips or local locksmith service

Your trusted locksmith service for Montcalm County