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 prevent this from happening, always keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it in a safe place.

This article explores the most frequent causes of car lockouts, and provides easy DIY solutions, such as using an altered coat hanger to open the doors of your car.

1. You've lost your keys

It's a nightmare scenario for any car owner: you're about to run errands, and you leave keys on the seat or in the ignition. Then, before you know it your door locks automatically and you're locked outside. This is one of the most frequent reasons for lockouts in vehicles, and a good reason to keep a spare key somewhere safe.

Don't be worried. 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 almost any car quickly. They can also help you identify the issue with the car's lock to ensure that you don't risk it happening again in future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag whenever you drive. This way you're less likely lose them in a hurry. You can also search for them in the most common places, but don't try to conceal them. Thieves can be clever and may have already thought of the most commonly used hiding spots.

You might be able to use an application that can turn your smartphone into the role of a key fob, based on the manufacturer of your car. This is especially helpful when you've lost your keys or left them in the vehicle and is compatible with most modern vehicles. Visit the website of your automaker to determine if it offers an application, and then how to install it. Also, you should contact your insurance company to determine if you're covered in the event that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually will cover these scenarios. However the specific terms and Get Keys Out Of Locked Car coverage amounts can vary.

2. Your Transponder Keys Have Failed

When it comes to modern automobiles there aren't many things more frustrating than getting locked out of your car. With the help of a professional, this problem can be resolved quickly, and without much hassle.

Transponder keys have become a standard feature in most cars because they offer increased security and function. Like any electronic device transponder keys aren't without fault and malfunctions from time to moment. It is crucial to be aware of the signs that your transponder is failing, so you can Get Keys Out Of Locked Car it serviced immediately.

The most typical indication that your transponder key is not working is when it ceases to function in the lock of your car key lock out. This could be due to various reasons. For instance, it could be due to the microchip in the key is not working properly or because of a problem with the RF signal that is sent between the chip and the computer in your car's system. Another possibility is the bottom metal of the key is worn or get keys Out of locked car dull. This could interfere with the signal.

If this is the scenario, try using another key to determine if it works in the lock of your car. Check to see if there's anything nearby that could be blocking the signal. If you're still having trouble with your key, always contact a locksmith who specialises in transponder keys for vehicles to have it checked and possibly repaired. They'll be able tell you exactly what is causing your transponder keys to fail and how to fix it. In the majority of instances, a locksmith will be able to reprogram your key to ensure it functions in your vehicle again.

3. Your Car's Lock Has Jammed

Many car door lockouts can be attributed to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time, dirt and rust can accumulate inside your lock, which causes it to block. This can make it extremely difficult to open the car door. It could also stop you from using your key fob to unlock the door.

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

Another reason for vehicle lockout is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder, or the interior locking post/switch, and the door latch of the car. This can be caused by extreme weather or by the constant use of the lock. This could cause you to be unable to open the door of your car and access your items.

To avoid this problem, you can keep an extra car key in a secure location and replace the battery on the key fob frequently to prolong its life. Some automakers offer apps that you can download to unlock your car remotely if it is locked. Contact your manufacturer to find out if one is available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs require batteries to operate and sometimes they are not able to provide juice. This issue can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries. If your car key fob isn't working at all, this could be an indication that something else is wrong. Refer to the manual of your vehicle in case you're experiencing this issue.

If your car's key fob doesn't work, and you don't have a spare, consider hiring a locksmith to assist you in getting into your vehicle. Many of these services provide emergency lockouts and may be capable of helping you gain access to your vehicle without having to pay a tow service or other recovery services.

You can also try using a key to open your car door. The driver's door of most newer vehicles has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually hidden in the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and use the fob to push the start button (if required). Some manufacturers have built-in backup systems that allow you to start your car using dead keys.

Getting locked out of your vehicle is never fun and can be especially frustrating when it happens in an unfamiliar place. Keep a spare car key at home or with trusted family members and change the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. In addition, you can attempt to improve your ability to find your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be linked to an app on your phone, which can be very useful in finding your keys if they are lost or are not found.

5. Your car's lock has accumulated dirt

Over time, dirt, grime, and other debris can accumulate within the locks of your car and cause them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To prevent this from happening it is essential to lubricate your locks and hinges at a minimum of 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 keep an extra key on hand. You can accomplish this in several ways. You can carry an extra key in your purse or wallet. You can also leave it with someone in your family or with a friend. Or, you can offer a set to the valet of your apartment building if it's an apartment complex. In addition to that, keep the number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will help you avoid much stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your car.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services to help drivers regain access to their vehicles in an emergency lockout. This includes GM's long-running 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.

If you're looking for a trustworthy and reliable towing service, call 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 a spare car key and know who to contact if you need help. For more information, visit us online today. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward to working with you. You can also give us an email at (301) 7777-1877.