Pro Delta Locksmith

I was dispatched to a 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty experiencing a no-crank, no-start issue. After conducting a thorough analysis, testing, and inspection, I successfully identified the cause of the problem. The customer was pleased to have a clear understanding of the issue. While I offered to complete the necessary repairs, the customer opted to attempt the repair on their own. I wished them the best of luck and kindly asked that they keep me updated on the outcome.

Hello, my name is Don Acres, owner of Pro Toledo Locksmith LLC, and soon-to-be owner of Repair Medic LLC, specializing in Automotive Diagnostics & Programming. I'd like to share a bit about my journey and how things have evolved since I first started.

When I began automotive locksmithing and key programming back in 2016, the investment was significant. I recall having to put down $2,000 and pay $300 a month just for a programming tool—that’s not even considering the cost of key machines, keys, remotes, and everything else necessary for the job. At that time, only a few programming tools were available, and even the most basic option was far from cheap.

Fast forward to today, and the market is flooded with inexpensive programming tools. Unfortunately, this has led to a surge of people calling themselves “automotive locksmiths.” This rise in unqualified service providers is one of the reasons why car theft has become rampant, and why auto insurance rates are climbing. As the old saying goes, "You get what you pay for." When choosing a locksmith, it's worth asking yourself: Why is this person offering such a low price? Have they invested in ongoing training or quality equipment?

For me, the answer is simple: I have spent thousands each year on training and professional development. I’ve traveled to Milwaukee, Tulsa, Las Vegas, and will be returning to Tulsa later this month to continue my education. I'm also a proud member of several prestigious trade organizations, including NASTF (National Automotive Service Task Force), ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America), SAVTA (Safe and Vault Technicians Association), IAAL (International Association of Automotive Locksmiths), IAIL (International Association of Investigative Locksmiths), and more. These affiliations reflect my commitment to quality and staying at the forefront of the industry.

Most people may not recognize these organizations, but shouldn't the technician you trust with your vehicle be familiar with them? I firmly believe that knowledge and expertise matter—especially in a field as critical as automotive locksmithing.

On top of that, I’ve recently started taking classes at Owens Community College to expand into Automotive Diagnostics & Programming. I’m also studying with L1 Automotive Training and Paul Danner, well-respected names in the industry. As I continue to grow and invest in my skills, I encourage you to think about what goes into choosing the right professional. The cheapest option isn’t always the best option, and sometimes, paying for quality up front can save you much more in the long run.

As Benjamin Franklin once said, "The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten." Something to consider the next time you’re looking for the lowest price.

Thank you for taking the time to read, and I look forward to serving you with the highest level of professionalism and expertise.