TCL Security & Locksmiths
Joel regularly solves automotive key and ignition problems that Toyota and Nissan dealers couldn't fix — often in under an hour.
After-hours response is another consistent strength, with Dan and Dane named by customers for fast arrival and clear explanations. That said, the 50-review sample shows a real inconsistency worth flagging: earlier reviews average around 4.7★ while more recent ones dip toward 3.9★, and four separate customers mention not receiving promised callbacks — worth keeping in mind if you're making an initial enquiry rather than walking in. For automotive key programming, lock-outs, or post-break-in security work, they're a credible first call; if you're pricing a specialist or niche job, it's worth asking for a quote upfront and comparing before committing.
Their work
What it's like working with them
Based on a sample of Google reviews (139 total)
What they help with
Based on what their customers hired them for
How they stack up
Context from 271 locksmiths in Cairns
Credentials & background
Sourced from 5 public records so you don't have to look them up yourself
About TCL Security & Locksmiths
TCL Security & Locksmiths traces its roots back to founder Tom Cowles and has been operating in Cairns for around 26 years — long enough that several reviewers explicitly reference working with the business across 10 to 20 years. Today, Joel is the standout name in the team: he's praised specifically for diagnosing ignition and steering lock problems on Nissans and Land Cruisers that dealers quoted at multiples of what TCL ultimately charged, reprogramming Jeep key fobs others couldn't touch, and sourcing keyless entry systems for used vehicles. Dan and Dane handle after-hours callouts and are noted for arriving quickly — one customer mentions a 10-minute arrival — and for explaining the root cause of lock alignment issues rather than just swapping hardware. Simon is the name customers associate with post-break-in security work, including lock replacement and reassurance during a stressful situation, while Nathan draws mention for discussing broader safety issues on-site. Beyond standard key cutting, the business covers automotive key programming, CCTV installation, security system design, and residential lock replacement — making them a broader security outfit than the locksmith label suggests. They're well suited to Cairns residents dealing with complex automotive key situations, post-incident security upgrades, or surveillance system installs, though some reviews flag inconsistent follow-through on callback requests and pricing that occasionally surprises customers on specialist jobs.
Best for: complex automotive key programming and ignition repairs, after-hours residential lockouts in the Cairns area, and CCTV or security system installs for homes and small businesses.
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Claim This Profile — Free →Common questions about TCL Security & Locksmiths
Does TCL Security & Locksmiths offer after-hours emergency callouts?+
Yes — multiple reviewers confirm an after-hours service is available. Customers mention staff like Dan and Dane answering calls outside business hours and arriving quickly, with one review noting a 10-minute arrival time. One reviewer also described getting Christmas holiday assistance when their car key was destroyed by farm equipment. It's worth calling the after-hours number directly to confirm current availability and callout fees, as at least one reviewer reported difficulty reaching the service on a particular occasion.
Can TCL handle complex automotive key programming, not just basic key cutting?+
This is where they stand out most clearly in the reviews. Team member Joel is specifically named for reprogramming keys for Jeep Grand Cherokees, Land Cruisers, Nissan Patrols, Nissan Navarras, and other vehicles — often resolving ignition and steering lock issues that Nissan and Toyota dealers had quoted at significantly higher prices. Several reviewers mention Joel sourcing and programming keyless entry for used cars and repairing key remotes that auto electricians couldn't fix. If you have a complex automotive key situation, it's worth calling ahead to confirm they can handle your specific make and model.
What do customers say about TCL's pricing?+
Pricing feedback in the reviews is mixed. Many customers describe the cost as fair or better than expected — one reviewer got both keys working on a Navara including battery and blade replacement for under $60, and another had a Jeep key reprogrammed for far less than the dealer quoted. However, a handful of reviewers felt prices on specialist jobs were high compared to alternatives, with a few mentioning specific competitors charged less for the same work. Getting a quote before committing — especially for car keys or niche jobs — is sensible based on the pattern in reviews.
Does TCL install CCTV and security systems, or just do locksmith work?+
TCL covers both. Several reviewers specifically mention CCTV installation and security system setup, praising the professionalism of the install team — one review names Bob and Ollie for a clean, thorough installation with a full handover. The business appears to handle both residential and commercial security system work. Reviewers note staff offered tailored advice on the right system for their needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
How responsive is TCL when you contact them for a quote or enquiry?+
This is an area where the reviews are genuinely inconsistent. Several customers report great experiences walking in or speaking to staff directly, but four separate reviewers in our sample describe calling for information or a quote and being told someone would call back — then waiting days with no follow-up. If you're reaching out for the first time, walking in to the Cairns shopfront or being persistent with follow-up calls appears to get better results than relying on a callback being initiated by the business.