About Us

A.J. Ficcardi RL CFDI is the founder of Dr Auto Lock, a company that provides professional lock service to Erie, Pa, and has grown to provide the same excellent service to surrounding areas.

After servicing vehicle locks since 1981, Dr Auto Lock was formed in 1995 in response to the electronic security components being added into Theft Deterrent auto locks and keys.

G.M. started using a VATS system in the mid-eighties, while Ford began using transponder keys in 1995. Today, almost every vehicle produced incorporates a Transponder Key and Ignition Lock to prevent auto theft.

"Little did I know that unlocking my car with the keys locked inside on prom night in 1971 was just the start of experiences and education that would lead to the creation of Dr Auto Lock. A summer course in the auto body at Erie County Tech School and two years of education to become an electronics technician provided the foundation."

Locks were becoming more complex as time passed, leading to the use of electronics in the locks. Servicing many G.M. locks required removing the airbag and disassembling the steering column. Ford started using transponder keys, and we saw a future in servicing these new electronic lock systems that A.J.'s life experiences had made him a natural to fill this niche. Dr Auto Lock was formed and soon dominated lock service in Northwest PA and Northeast Ohio.