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

A vehicle lockout can be a stressful and frightening experience that can happen to anyone. To prevent this from happening make sure you keep a spare key in a safe location.

This article explores some common causes of car lockouts and offers some simple DIY techniques, like using a modified coat hanger made of wire to open car the door of your car.

1. You've Lost Your Keys

It's a nightmare for any car owner: you're about to do some errands and you forget keys on the seat or in the ignition. You're stuck outside after your door locks by itself. This is one of the most frequent reasons for lockouts in vehicles and is a great reason to keep a spare key safe.

Don't panic. It may seem like you've failed, but it's not. The majority of roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers provide locksmith services for vehicles and they're trained to unlock nearly every vehicle quickly. They can also assist you to figure out what went wrong with the lock on your vehicle so you can stop it from occurring again in the future.

Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag while you drive. You're less likely to lose them if you do this. You can also look for them in the most common places, but don't attempt to hide them--thieves are smart and may have considered all the usual places to hide.

Depending on your car's manufacturer You may be able to utilize an app that turns your smartphone into the key fob. This is especially helpful in the event that you've lost your keys or put them in your vehicle and is compatible with all modern vehicles. Visit the website of your automaker to determine if it offers an application, and then how to install it. You should also check with your insurance company to determine whether you're covered in event that you lock your keys in the car. Roadside assistance generally will cover these scenarios. However the exact conditions and coverage amounts may differ.

2. Your Transponder Keys Have Failed

There aren't many things more frustrating when it comes to modern cars than being locked out. With the help of a professional, this issue can be solved quickly and without too much hassle.

Transponder keys are now a standard feature in most automobiles because they provide greater security and function. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys aren't without fault and malfunction from time to time. It's important to know the signs that your transponder is not functioning properly to ensure that you get it serviced immediately.

If your transponder keys stop working in the car lock it is a typical indication. This could be due to various reasons. It could be that the microchip in the key has stopped working or there's a problem with the RF signal transmitted 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 could interfere with the signal.

If this is the case try a different key and see if that works. Also, make sure that there isn't any obstruction in the area that could block the signal. If you're still experiencing issues with your key, call locksmiths that specialize in vehicle-transponder keys. They'll be able to test it and possibly repair it. They will be able identify the issue that caused your transponder's malfunction and how to fix the issue. In the majority of cases locksmiths are capable of reprogramming your key to enable it to function again in your vehicle.

3. Your Car's Lock is Jammed

A blocked or jammed locking mechanism is the root of many car door lockouts. Over time, dirt, rust, and other impurities may build in the lock, causing it to block. This can make it very difficult to open the car door. It may also prevent you from using your key fob to unlock car door service the door.

It is possible to lubricate the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to unlock the lock. These products can be bought at home improvement stores or at auto supply stores. They can be glued to the lock with flatheads or any other thin object that you can put into your keyhole to gain access to the mechanism. If you are unable to insert the key or key fob and lubricate the lock using this method, try wriggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.

A damaged link between the lock's cylinder or interior locking switch/post and the car latch is a common cause of vehicle locks out. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather or due to the continuous use of the lock, and can result in your being incapable of opening the door of your vehicle and access your items.

To avoid this issue, you can keep a spare car key in a secure place and replace the battery on your key fob regularly to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers even offer downloadable apps that you can use to remotely unlock your car when you're Locked My Keys In My Van out, so be sure to contact your manufacturer to find out if they have one available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries are used to charge car key fobs, and they can run out of power. Luckily, you can often solve this issue by replacing the batteries. If, however, your car key fob isn't working at all It could indicate that something else is not working properly. Refer to the manual of your car when you're experiencing this issue.

If your car key fob doesn't work, and you don't have a spare, think about hiring a locksmith to assist you with accessing your vehicle. Many of these services provide emergency lockouts, and could be in a position to help you gain access to your vehicle without paying for towing or other recovery services.

You could also try using a physical key to open your car door. The driver's side door of many newer cars has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually hidden under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door and use the fob to press the start button (if it is required). Certain manufacturers have backup systems in place that let you start your car using dead keys.

Locked out of your vehicle is never enjoyable, and it can be particularly frustrating when it happens in a strange area. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere safe at home or with a trusted friend, and to change the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. You can also try to enhance the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that you can connect to an app on your smartphone and can be extremely helpful in locating your keys if they are 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 which can cause them to become jammed and hinder you from opening your door. To avoid this it is recommended to be sure to lubricate the hinges and locks of your car at least twice a yearly with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is an additional option to avoid a car lockout. You can do this in a variety of ways. You can keep the spare key in your purse or wallet. Or, you can leave it with a family member or friend. You could also give the set to the valet at your apartment building if it's an apartment complex. You should also have the contact number of the locksmith in your area. This will save you a lot of stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your car.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services that can assist drivers in regaining access to their vehicles during a lockout situation. This includes GM's enduring OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service, and Hyundai Blue Link. However, if none of these options are available, you should call a local towing company to resolve the issue.

If you're in search of a professional and reliable towing company, contact Richman Automotive & Towing today!

It's never a great thing to find yourself in a car lockout situation. Fortunately, there are many quick solutions to this issue. It is also beneficial to have an extra car key and be aware of who to call should you need assistance. Visit us online to learn more. We're happy to answer any questions you might have. We look forward to working with you. We can be reached at (301) the 777-1877.