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

Locking out your vehicle can be a stressful and frightening experience that can happen to anyone. To avoid this, keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it in a safe place.

This article explores some common causes of car lockout and suggests some easy DIY solutions, such as using a modified wire coat hanger to unlock your car's door.

1. You Forgot Your Keys

It's a nightmare for every car owner: you're about make errands, but you leave your keys on the seat or in the ignition. Before you know it, your door locks automatically and you're stuck outside. This is the most typical reason behind vehicle lockouts. It's recommended to keep the spare car key in a safe place.

Don't panic. It might appear like you've failed, however it's not. Most roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers offer locksmith services for vehicles and they're trained to open almost every vehicle quickly. They can also help you identify the issue with the car's lock so that you can prevent it happening again in future.

Another way to prevent a vehicle lock out is by keeping your keys in a purse, backpack or other bag you take with you on every trip. This way you're less likely forget your keys in a hurry. You can also search for them in the most common locations, but don't attempt to hide them. Thieves are able to be clever and may have already thought of the most popular hiding spots.

You might be able to make use of an app that transforms your smartphone into an electronic key fob, based on the manufacturer of your car. This is particularly useful if you've lost your keys or have left them in the car and is available for all modern automobiles. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to determine if they offer an application and how to open lock without key to configure it. Check with your insurance provider to determine if you're covered when you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance generally covers these situations. However the specific details and coverage amounts could vary.

2. Your Transponder Keys have failed

In the world of modern vehicles there aren't many things more frustrating than being locked out of your car. Fortunately with the help of a professional locksmith, this problem can be solved quickly and without a lot of hassle.

Transponder keys are now common feature in many automobiles because they offer more security and function. Like any electronic device transponder keys aren't without fault and malfunctions from time to time. As such, it's important to recognize the signs that your transponder keys are failing to be able to get it repaired immediately.

If the transponder keys stop working in the car lock This is a common sign. This can happen for a number of reasons. It could be because the microchip inside the key has stopped working or because there is a problem with the RF signal that is transmitted between the chip and the computer in your car's system. Another possibility is the bottom metal of the key is worn or dull. This could cause interference with the signal.

If this is the case, try another key and check if it works. You should also check to ensure that there isn't an object in the vicinity that blocks the signal. If you still have problems with your key, contact an expert locksmith who specializes in transponder keys for automotive Lockouts vehicles. They can test the key and repair it. They'll be able to tell you precisely what's causing the transponder key to malfunction and how to fix it. In the majority of instances your locksmith will be able reprogram your key to allow it to work in your vehicle.

3. The lock on your car is jammed

Many car door lockouts can be attributed to a blocked or jammed lock mechanism. Over time dirt, rust and other impurities can build up inside your lock and cause it to block. This can make it very difficult to open your car door. It can also hinder you from using your key fob to unlock the door.

It is possible to lubricate the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser to free it from jamming. These items can be found at home improvement stores or auto supply shops. They can be sprayed on the lock using a flathead screwdriver or other thin object that you could insert into the keyhole in order to reach the mechanism behind it. If you are unable insert the key or key fob into the lock and then lubricate it by this method, try wriggling the mechanism back and forth with needle-nose pliers until it feels free.

Another reason that causes vehicle lockout is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder, or the interior locking post/switch, and the door latch for your car. This can be caused by extreme weather or due to the continuous use of the lock, and could result in you being in a position to not open your car's door and access your items.

One method to avoid this problem is to always keep a spare key secure and to replace the battery on your key fob frequently to ensure it lasts longer. Certain automakers have applications that you can download to unlock your car remotely if it is locked. Contact your manufacturer to find out if a solution is available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries are used to charge car key fobs, and can be depleted of power. This issue can be resolved by changing the batteries. If your car key fob isn't working at all, it could indicate that something else is wrong. If you're experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your vehicle to determine what other steps you can take.

If you have lost your car key and don't have spare keys call locksmiths for assistance. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockout services and may be able to help gain access to your vehicle without the need to pay for a tow or another recovery service.

You could also try using a physical key to open the door of your car. The driver's door on most modern cars has a concealed slot for keys. It's usually located 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). Some manufacturers have an automatic backup system in their cars that allow you to start your vehicle with a dead fob.

Being locked out of your vehicle is never fun but it is especially stressful when it happens in a strange location. Keep an extra car key at your home or with trusted acquaintances and change the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. Additionally, you can attempt to improve the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit an unique signature which you can connect to a phone application. This could be extremely helpful in finding your keys if they've been lost or are not found.

5. Your Car's Lock has Accumulated Dirt

Over time dirt, grime and other debris may build up in your car's locks which can cause them to become jammed and prevent you from opening your door. To avoid this it is crucial to keep your locks lubricated and hinges at least once every year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another method to avoid having the loss of your vehicle lock is to always keep an extra key in your possession. You can do this in a variety of ways. You can keep an extra key in your wallet or purse. Or, you could leave one with a family member or friend. Or, you could offer a set to the valet of your apartment if it's an apartment complex. You should also keep the contact information of the locksmith in your area. This will help you save time and stress if you ever get locked out of the vehicle.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services to assist drivers in regaining access to their vehicles following a lockout situation. This includes GM's long-running OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service and Hyundai Blue Link. However, if none of these options are available, you should contact a local towing service to resolve the problem.

If you're looking for a trustworthy and reliable towing service, contact Richman automotive lockouts (squidtruck94.bravejournal.net) & Towing today!

It's never a good idea to find yourself in a car lockout situation. There are a variety of quick solutions to this issue. It is also helpful to have an extra car key and know who to call if you need assistance. For more information, visit us online today. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions. We are looking forward to working with you! You can also give us a a call at (301) 7777-1877.