Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
A vehicle lockout is a stressful event that can happen to anyone. To avoid this, always have a spare key on hand and keep it somewhere safe.
This article explores the most common causes of car lockouts, and offers some simple DIY solutions, including using a modified coat hanger to open the doors of your car.
1. You've Forgotten Your Keys
You're preparing to run errands when you forget your keys in the ignition or on the seat. Before you know it, your door locks automatically and you're locked outside. This is one of the most frequent causes for vehicle lock outs and is a good reason to keep a spare key somewhere secure.
Don't get stressed. It might appear like you've failed, however it's not. Many roadside assistance programs as well as auto wreckers offer locksmith services for vehicles and they're trained to unlock nearly any car quickly. They can also help figure out what went wrong with the lock on your vehicle so you can avoid it happening again in the future.
Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag while you travel. You're less likely to forget your keys if you use this method. You can also search for them in the most common places, but don't try to hide them. Thieves are clever and might have thought of all the typical places to hide.
You may be able to use an application that turns your smartphone into an electronic key fob, based on the car's manufacturer. This is particularly useful when you've lost your keys or left them in the vehicle and is compatible with most modern automobiles. Check the website of your automaker to determine if it offers an application, and then how to install it. Contact your insurance company to determine if you're covered if you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually covers these situations, though the exact terms and coverage amount may vary.
2. Your transponder keys are not working.
There aren't many things more difficult in modern cars than being locked out. Fortunately, with the assistance of a professional locksmith, this problem can be resolved quickly and without a lot of hassle.
Transponder keys are now an integral part of many cars because they offer increased security and function. However, like any other electronic device, they can be prone to failures and issues occasionally. It is crucial to be aware of the indicators that your transponder is failing and be sure to have it fixed immediately.
The most typical indication that your transponder key is not working is when it stops working in the lock of your car. It could be due to many different reasons. It could be that the microchip inside the key has stopped functioning or there's a problem between the RF signal sent by the chip to the car's computer. Another possibility is that the metal at the bottom of the key being worn or dull. This can interfere with the signal.
If this is the situation, try a different key to see if it works in your car's lock. Check to see if there's anything nearby that could block the signal. If you're still experiencing issues with your key, you could always contact a locksmith who specialises in transponder keys for vehicles to test it and possibly repaired. They'll be able to tell you exactly what is causing your transponder keys to fail and how to fix it. In the majority of cases, a locksmith will be capable of reprogramming your key to ensure it can work in your car again.
3. The lock on your car is jammed
A blocked or jammed locking mechanism is the root of many lockouts at the car door. Over time, dirt and rust can accumulate within your lock, which causes it to jam. This can make it difficult to open the car door. It can also hinder you from using your key fob to open the door.
You may need to lubricate the lock using WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to unlock the lock. These products are available at auto supply shops or home improvement centers. They can be put on the lock with a flathead screwdriver or another thin object that you can put into the keyhole to reach the mechanism behind it. If you are unable to insert the key or key fob into the lock and then lubricate it this way, try wiggling the mechanism back and forth with needle-nose pliers until you feel free.
Another reason that causes vehicle lockouts is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder or the interior locking switch/post/switch and the door latch of the car. This can be caused by extreme weather or due to the continuous use of the lock and could result in you being incapable of opening your car's door and access your items.
To avoid this problem To avoid this, keep the spare car key in a safe location and replace the battery of the key fob frequently to make it last longer. Some automakers offer applications that can be downloaded to allow remote unlocking of your vehicle when it is locked. Contact your automaker to find out if a solution is available.
4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died
Batteries are used to power key fobs for cars and can be depleted of power. This issue can be resolved by changing the batteries. If service to unlock car fob doesn't function at all, it could be an indication that something else is not working. If you are experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your vehicle to find out what other steps you could take.
If you've lost your car keys and don't have a spare, you can call locksmiths for help. A lot of locksmiths offer emergency lockouts and are able help you gain entry to your vehicle without having to pay an additional tow fee or recovery services.
You could also try using a physical key to open your car door. The driver's side door of many newer vehicles has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually hidden behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key for opening the door, and the fob to start the vehicle (if required). Some manufacturers have built-in backup systems that let you start your car using dead keys.
It's never fun being locked out of your car and especially when it happens in a remote place. Keep an extra car key at home or with trusted family members and replace the battery in your key fob regularly. In addition, you can try to improve the ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. They emit a unique signature which you can connect to a mobile app. This can be extremely helpful in finding your keys in case they get lost or have been misplaced.
5. Your Car's Lock is Ample Dirt
Over time, dirt, grime, and other debris can accumulate in your car's locks and cause them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To prevent this from happening, it is important to keep your locks lubricated and hinges at least twice a year with either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
Another method to avoid having the possibility of a vehicle lock being lost is to always have an extra key on hand. You can accomplish this in several ways. You can keep an extra key in your purse or wallet. Or, you could leave one with a family member or friend. Or, you can offer a set to the valet at your apartment building if it is an apartment complex. Additionally, you should also keep the contact number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will save you a lot of stress and money in the event you are locked out of your vehicle.
Many automakers provide roadside assistance to assist users gain access to their vehicle in a lockout scenario. This includes GM's enduring OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service, and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options are available, you should call a local towing company to solve the issue.
Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing company you need if you want a reliable and professional service.
It's never a good thing to be locked out of your car. There are a variety of quick solutions to this issue. A spare key should be kept on hand and knowing who to contact to get help is always helpful and also. To learn more, please visit us online today. We will be happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward to working with you! You can also call us at (301) 777-1877.