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

A vehicle lockout is a stressful experience that can occur to anyone. To prevent this from happening make sure you keep a spare key in a secure place.

This article outlines some of the common causes of car lockouts and provides some easy DIY methods, such as using a modified wire coat hanger to open the door of your car.

1. You forgot your keys

It's a nightmare for every car owner: you're about do some errands and you leave keys on the seat or in the ignition. Before you know it, your door locks automatically and you're trapped outside. This is the most frequent reason for vehicle lockouts. It's an excellent idea to keep a spare car key in a secure place.

Don't be worried. It may seem as if you've failed but it's not. Most roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers offer locksmith services for cars, and they're trained to open almost every vehicle quickly. They can also help identify the issue with your car's lock, so you can prevent it from repeating itself in the future.

Another way to prevent a vehicle lock out is by keeping your keys in a backpack, purse or other bag you take with you on every trip. You're less likely to forget the keys locked out of car when you take this precaution. You can also search for them in the usual locations, but don't try to conceal them. Thieves know how to be clever and may have already come up with the most popular hiding spots.

Based on the manufacturer of your car depending on the manufacturer of your car, you could have the option to use an app which turns your smartphone into an electronic key fob. This is particularly useful when you've lost your keys or have left them in the car and is available for most modern automobiles. Visit the website of your automaker to see if they have an app and how to install it. Contact your insurance company to determine if you're covered if you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance generally covers these kinds of situations. However the specific conditions and coverage amounts may vary.

2. Your Transponder Keys Have Failed

When it comes to modern automobiles, there are few things more frustrating than being locked out of your car. Luckily, with the help of a professional locksmith, this issue can be resolved quickly and without much hassle.

Transponder keys are now a common feature in many automobiles, since they provide greater security and efficiency. Like any electronic device, transponder keys can have problems and malfunction from time to moment. It's important to know the indicators that your transponder's failing to ensure that you be sure to have it fixed immediately.

If the transponder keys stop working in the car lock, this is a common indication. It could be due to various reasons. It could be because the microchip in the key has stopped functioning or there is a problem between the RF signal sent by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is the bottom metal of the key becoming worn or dull. This could interfere with the signal.

If this is the situation, try another key and see if that works. You should also ensure that there isn't an object in the vicinity that blocks the signal. Finally, if you're still experiencing issues with your key, call a locksmith who is specialized in transponder keys for vehicles to test it and possibly repaired. They can tell you what's causing your transponder's malfunction and how to fix the issue. In most instances, a locksmith will be capable of reprogramming the key so that it functions in your vehicle again.

3. The lock on your car is jammed

A blocked or jammed locking mechanism is the reason of many lockouts at the car door. Over time, 125.141.133.9 dirt, rust, and other impurities could build in the lock, causing it to jam. This could make it difficult, if not impossible, to open the car's door and may also prevent your key fob from unlocking the door after you press its button.

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

A broken link between the lock cylinder the interior locking switch/post and car latch is another common cause of vehicle locks out. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather or by the constant use of the lock. This can result in your being unable to open the door of your car and gain access to your items.

To avoid this To avoid this, keep a spare car key in a safe place and replace the battery in the key fob frequently to prolong its life. Certain automakers have apps that can be downloaded to unlock your car remotely if it is locked. Contact your automaker to find out if a solution is available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs rely on batteries to operate and sometimes, they run out of juice. This issue can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries. If, however, your car key fob isn't functioning at all, it could be a sign that something else is not working properly. Refer to the manual of your vehicle if you're experiencing this problem.

If your car key fob doesn't work and you don't have a spare, you should consider calling a locksmith to assist you with accessing your vehicle. Many of these services offer emergency lockout services and may be able to assist you gain access to your vehicle without having to pay for a tow or another recovery service.

You can also try using a key to open your car door. The driver's door of most modern cars has a concealed slot for keys. It is usually under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door. You can also use the fob to press the start button (if necessary). Certain manufacturers have a backup system built into their vehicles that allows you to start your car using an unresponsive fob.

It's never fun to be locked out of your vehicle and especially when it happens in a secluded location. Keep a spare car key at home or with trusted friends and replace the battery on your key fob on a regular basis. In addition, you can try to improve the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that you can connect to an app on your phone and can be extremely helpful in locating your keys if they are lost or have been misplaced.

5. The lock on your car has accumulated dirt

Over time, grime and dirt build up inside the lock of your car, which could cause it to become blocked and stop you from opening the door. To prevent this from happening it is recommended to grease the hinges and locks of your vehicle at least once a year using 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 do this by keeping an extra key in your wallet or purse or leaving it with a family member or by giving one to your valet if live in an apartment building. You should also keep the contact information of your local locksmith on hand. This will spare you much stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your vehicle.

Many automakers offer roadside assistance to help users gain access to their car in the event of a lockout. 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 call a local towing company to solve the problem.

Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing company you need if you want a reliable and professional service.

It's never a great thing to find yourself in a car lockout situation. There are a variety of quick solutions to this issue. It is also beneficial to have a spare car key and be aware of who to call should you need help. For more information, visit us online today. We're happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward working with you. You can also call us at (301) 7777-1877.