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

Locking out your vehicle is a stressful event that can happen to anyone. To prevent this from happening ensure you keep a spare car key in a secure place.

This article focuses on the most common 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 lost your keys

You're about run errands and you forget your keys in the ignition or on the seat. You're suddenly stuck outside when your door locks by itself. This is one of the most common reasons for vehicle lock outs and is a great reason to always keep a spare key in a place that is secure.

Don't be worried. It may seem as if you've failed but it's not. Most roadside assistance and auto wreckers provide locksmith services and are trained to unlock nearly any car quickly. They can also assist you to determine what went wrong with the lock on your vehicle to ensure that you don't risk it happening again in future.

Another way to avoid a vehicle lockout is to keeping your keys in a purse, backpack or other bag that you carry on every trip. That way you're less likely lose your keys in a hurry. You can also look for them in common places, but don't try to conceal them. Thieves can be clever and might have already come up with the most common hiding places.

Depending on your car's manufacturer, you may have the option of using an app which turns your smartphone into an electronic key fob. This is especially helpful in the event that you've lost your keys or put them in your vehicle, and it's available for most modern vehicles. Check your automaker's website to determine if they offer an application and how to open car door without keys to install it. Contact your insurance company to see if you are covered if you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance typically covers these kinds of situations. However the exact details and coverage amounts could vary.

2. Your transponder keys have failed

There aren't many things that are more than a hassle in modern vehicles than being locked out. With the assistance of a professional, this issue can be solved quickly and without much hassle.

Transponder keys are a common feature in all automobiles, since they provide greater security and functionality. But, just like any other electronic device, they can suffer from failures and problems occasionally. As such, it's important to recognize the signs that your transponder key is failing so you can have it fixed immediately.

If your transponder keys cease to work in the lock of your car This is a common indication. This can be caused by various reasons. It could be because the microchip inside the key has stopped functioning or there is a glitch with the RF signal transmitted by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is the metal on the bottom of the key being worn or dull. This can interfere with the signal.

If this is the case, try using another key to determine whether it works in your car's lock. You should also make sure that there isn't a nearby object blocking the signal. Finally, if you're still having trouble with your key, you can seek out a locksmith that specializes in vehicle transponder keys to have it tested and possibly repaired. They'll be able to inform the exact reason for your transponder keys to fail and the best way to fix it. In the majority of instances locksmiths are in a position to reprogram your key and enable it to function again in your vehicle.

3. Your car's lock is blocked

A blocked or jammed locking mechanism is the cause of many car door lockouts. Over time dirt, rust and other impurities can build within the lock, causing it to become jammed. This could make it difficult even impossible, to Open my car (http://www.mecosys.com/Bbs/board.php?bo_table=project_02&wr_id=992800) the door of your car and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door after you press its button.

If you are in this situation it is possible to grease your lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyst to free it. These are available in auto supply stores or home improvement centers. You can apply them to the lock using 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 fob or key key and lubricate the lock this way, try wiggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.

Another common cause of vehicle lockout is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder, or 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 can result in your being incapable of opening the door of your vehicle and access your items.

To avoid this to avoid this issue, keep a spare car key in a secure location and replace the battery on your key fob regularly to make it last longer. Some automakers offer download apps that you can use to remotely unlock your car if it's locked. Be sure to inquire with your manufacturer to find out whether they have a solution 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 changing the batteries. If your car key fob doesn't function in any way, it could indicate something else is not working. If you are experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your vehicle to see what other steps you can take.

If your car key fob doesn't work and you don't have a spare, think about hiring a locksmith to help you get into your vehicle. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockout assistance and may be able to help gain access to your vehicle without the need to pay for a tow or any other recovery services.

You can also try using a physical key to open your car door. The driver's door on most newer cars has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually located in the handle cover. Use the mechanical key for opening the door, and the fob to start the vehicle (if required). Certain manufacturers have backup systems built-in that allow you to start your car using dead keys.

Locked out of your vehicle is never enjoyable but it can be particularly frustrating when it happens in an unfamiliar place. The best way to stop this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere safe at home, or with a trusted friend, and to replace the battery on your key fob frequently. In addition, you could try to increase the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be connected to an app on your phone, which can be very helpful in locating your keys if they are lost or are not found.

5. The lock of your car has been accumulating dirt

Over time, dirt, grime, and other debris can accumulate within the locks of your car which can cause them to become jammed and prevent you from opening your door. To prevent this from happening, you should lubricate the locks and hinges of your vehicle at least twice a yearly using WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is another method to avoid a lockout. You can do this by putting an extra key in your purse or open my car wallet, leaving one with a family or friend member or by giving one to your valet if you live in an apartment building. Additionally to that, keep the contact number of your locksmith on hand. This will save you lots of stress and money in the event you get locked out of your vehicle.

Many automakers provide roadside assistance to assist drivers gain access to their vehicle in case of lockout. This includes GM's enduring OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service, and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options are available, contact a towing company in your area to resolve the problem.

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

It's never a good thing to be caught locked out of your car. There are a variety of quick solutions for this problem. Keep a spare key in your pocket and knowing who you can call to get help is always helpful, as well. To learn more, please visit us on the internet today. We're happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward working with you. We are also available to give us a an email at (301) 777-1877.