We are certified, bonded and insured locksmiths serving both San Diego North County and Riverside County.
The company was started in 1986 in Vista, San Diego County of California when the founder recognized the need for a full-service locksmith in their community. Since then, American Locks & Keys has grown to become a highly respected and technically formidable business in and around the area it primarily serves.
Our fully-equipped shop is located in Vista and we also have mobile service vans. Our professionals are trained on the latest locksmith technology to keep up with the fast moving trends. You will find our technicians to be professional and in easily identifiable uniforms and marked vehicles.
At American Locks & Keys we are committed to providing our customers with fast, professional services at competitive rates. We invite you to visit or contact us anytime with questions or concerns about American Locks & Keys and the locksmith services we provide.
Overview
Current Top Pro
Hired 487 times
Background checked
2 employees
40 years in business
Business hours
Sun12:00 pm - 3:00 pmMon10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Credit card, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Square cash app, and Zelle.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2017
Services offered
Project type
Lost key
Lock installation
Unlock
Lock rekey
Type of lock
Deadbolt
Vehicle lock
Doorknob
Mailbox
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
248 reviews
5
98%
4
2%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Julie L.
Aug 25, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I would definitely recommend Joe! He arrived at the appointed time, took care of my lock issues and all at a very reasonable rate.
Details: Repair broken lock • Deadbolt
Lock Installation and Repair
Albert A.
4 weeks ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I contacted Joe for the first time with an urgent lock problem around 5 pm on a Monday afternoon and explained my situation. He responded quickly, listened to my concerns and offered a plan to resolve them all. We coordinated a time to do the work the next day and he was right on time, ready to go, even had to make a special trip to the hardware store because my door lock did not allow a lot of room, but he was always friendly and offered good suggestions. I’m very pleased with his work and I will gladly call him first for any locksmith needs. A thoroughly professional and excellent experience, thank you, Joe!
Details: Install or replace current lock system • Doorknob
Lock Installation and Repair
Tyler J.
Jul 24, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Very happy with his work. Very friendly, punctual and easy to talk with. I had some other issues that I didn’t include in my original request but he didn’t hesitate to fix those issues as well. He changed 5 locks and fixed my other issues in 45 minutes
Details: Install or replace current lock system • Deadbolt • I'm flexible
Lock Installation and Repair
Karen O.
1 month ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Vance was able to give quote by my description and photos i sent. He completed the project in less than 30 minutes. Door lock is working and completely satisfied. The lock broke previously and the repairman said we need a new lock etc and it cost us over $400. American Locks & Key (Vance) charged $136 and we did NOT need a new lock.
Details: Install or replace current lock system • Deadbolt
Lock Installation and Repair
Vickie T.
Jul 13, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
This company's representative was wonderful. He was very professional and honest. He Explained the difference in the locks, the durability, quality, and how to proceed. He installed them perfectly and was very kind. I will definitely call him again for service.
Details: Install or replace current lock system • Doorknob • Keyless remote
Lock Installation and Repair
Credentials
Background Check
Joseph Kisaka
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
American locks and keys works hard to make sure the customer gets the best and honest prices possible.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We first listen to the customer's needs. We than give our estimates based on the information given. Before going to start a job we prefer to follow up with a phone call to make sure both the customer and our company are on the same page. We will usually ask as many questions as we can or even ask for pictures so we can better understand the customer's needs.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
College Graduates and mechanical background in automotive.
