Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key

Anyone can be affected by the stress of a vehicle lockout. To prevent this from happening, always keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it in a safe location.

This article explores the most frequent causes of car lockouts and offers some simple DIY solutions, such as using an old coat hanger to unlock the doors of your car.

1. You've Forgotten Your Keys

It's a nightmare for every car owner: you're about run errands, and you forget your keys on the seat or in the ignition. Then you're locked outside because your door locks by itself. This is among the most common reasons for lockouts in vehicles and is a great reason to keep a spare key somewhere safe.

It may seem like a complete failure, but don't worry. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers offer locksmith services, and are trained to unlock almost any vehicle swiftly. They can also assist you to determine what went wrong with your car's lock, so you can stop it from occurring again in the future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag whenever you travel. That way, you're less likely to forget the keys in the midst of. You can also search for them in the most common places, but don't attempt to hide them--thieves are smart and might have considered all the usual places to hide.

You may be able to make use of an app that transforms your smartphone in an electronic key fob, based on the car manufacturer. This is particularly useful in the event that you've lost your keys or left them in the vehicle, and it's available for the majority of modern vehicles. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to find out if they've got an app and how to open a car door without key to set it up. Contact your insurance company to see if you are covered if you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance usually covers these situations. However the exact conditions and coverage amounts may differ.

2. Your transponder keys have failed

There aren't many things that are more difficult when it comes to modern cars than being locked out. Luckily with the help of a professional locksmith, this problem can be resolved quickly and with minimal hassle.

Transponder keys are now a common feature in many automobiles, since they provide greater security and efficiency. However, as with any electronic device, they are prone to have issues and failures from time to time. It is important to recognize the indicators that your transponder is failing and have it repaired immediately.

The most frequent indication that your transponder key isn't working is when it stops working in your car's lock. This can be caused by various reasons. It could be because the microchip in the key is not functioning properly or there is a glitch between the RF signal sent by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is that the metal at the bottom of the key is worn or dull. This can interfere with the signal.

If this is the case try a different key and check if it works. You should also make sure that there isn't a nearby object blocking the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, call a locksmith that specializes in keys for vehicles. They'll test the key and repair it. They'll be able to inform the exact reason for the transponder key to malfunction and the best way to fix it. In most instances your locksmith will be in a position to reprogram your key and make it work again in your vehicle.

3. Your Car's Lock Has Jammed

A blocked or jammed locking mechanism is the reason of many lockouts at the car door. Over time, dirt and rust can accumulate inside your lock, causing it to jam. This can make it extremely difficult to open the car door. It could also stop you from using your key fob to open the door.

If you are in this position it is possible to lubricate your lock with a penetrating catalyst or WD-40 in order to unjam it. These items can be found at home improvement centers or auto supply shops. You can attach them to the lock using flatheads or any other thin object that you can stick in your keyhole to access the mechanism. If you are unable to insert the key or the key fob into the lock and lubricate it this way, try wiggling the mechanism with needle-nose pliers until it feels free.

A damaged link between the lock cylinder the post or interior locking switch and car latch is a common reason why locks on vehicles fail. Extreme weather conditions or constant use of the lock could cause this. Then you'll be unable to open the car door and gain access to your belongings.

To avoid this, you can keep the spare car key in a secure place and replace the battery on your key fob regularly to prolong its life. Some automakers offer download applications that allow you to remotely unlock your car when it's locked. Be sure to inquire with your manufacturer to find out if they have one available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs require batteries to function and, sometimes they are not able to provide juice. This problem can be solved by simply replacing the batteries. If your car's key fob isn't working at all, this could indicate something else is not working. If you're having this issue, check the manual for your car to see what other steps you could take.

If you have lost your car keys and don't own an extra call locksmiths for help. Many of these services provide emergency lockouts and are able help you gain entry to your vehicle without having to pay a tow service or other recovery services.

You could also try using a physical key to open the door of your car. The driver's door of most newer vehicles has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually located behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door. You can also use the fob to push the start button (if necessary). Certain manufacturers have an automatic backup system in their cars that allow you to start your vehicle by using a dead fob.

Locked out of your vehicle is never enjoyable and can be particularly frustrating when it occurs in a foreign place. Keep your spare car keys at home or with trusted family members and replace the battery in your key fob regularly. You can also improve the ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a distinct signature that can be linked to an app on your smartphone and can be extremely useful in finding your keys when they get lost or are not found.

5. Your Car's Lock Has Accumulated Dirt

Over time dirt, grime and other debris can accumulate in your car's locks and cause them to jam and prevent you from opening your door. To avoid this it is essential to keep your locks lubricated and hinges at least once each year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is an additional method to avoid a lockout. You can do this by keeping the spare key in your purse or wallet or leaving it with a family member or giving a set to your valet, if you live in an apartment building. You should also keep the contact information of your local locksmith near me open now on hand. This will help you avoid a lot of stress and money in the event you are locked out of your car.

Many automakers offer roadside assistance to help drivers gain access to their car in the event of a lockout. This includes GM's OnStar service, which has been around for years, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. If none of these options is available, call a local towing company in your area to fix the problem.

If you're looking for a trustworthy and reliable towing service, contact Richman Automotive & Towing today!

It's never a good idea to be caught locked out of your car. There are plenty of quick solutions to this issue. It is also beneficial to have an extra car key and know who to contact if you require assistance. Visit us online to learn more. We're here to answer any questions you may have. We are looking forward to working with you! We can be reached at (301) the 777-1877.