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

Vehicle lock out is a stressful event that can happen to anyone. To prevent this from happening ensure you keep a spare car key in a safe location.

This article examines the most frequent reasons for car lockouts and offers some easy DIY solutions, like using a modified coat hanger to unlock the doors of your car.

1. You've Forgotten Your Keys

It's a nightmare scenario for any car owner: you're about do some errands and you forget your keys on the seat or in the ignition. You're suddenly stuck outside when your door locks by itself. This is the most common reason for vehicle lockouts. It's an excellent idea to keep the spare car key in a safe location.

It might feel like a total failure, but don't be worried. Most roadside assistance as well as auto wreckers offer locksmith services, and are trained to unlock almost any car quickly. They can also help identify the issue with your car's lock so you can stop it from occurring again in the future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack, or bag when you travel. You're less likely to forget the keys when you do this. You can also search for them in the most common places, but don't attempt to hide them. Thieves are clever and might have considered all the typical places to hide.

You might be able to use an application that turns your smartphone in an electronic key fob, based on the car manufacturer. This is a great solution for those who have lost their keys, or if they are still in the car. It's available on most modern vehicles. Visit the website of your automaker to determine if it offers an application, and then how to get locked keys out of a car to install it. Check with your insurance provider to determine if you're covered in the event that you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance typically covers these kinds of situations. However, the exact details and coverage amounts could differ.

2. Your Transponder Keys Are Not Working

There aren't many things more than a hassle in modern cars than being locked out. Luckily, with the assistance of a professional locksmith, this issue can be solved quickly and without much hassle.

Transponder keys are now a standard feature in most automobiles because they provide greater security and functionality. However, like any other electronic device, they can have issues and failures occasionally. Therefore, it's crucial to know the signs that your transponder key is not working to be able to get it repaired immediately.

The most frequent indication that your transponder key isn't working is when it stops working in your car's lock. This could be due to many reasons. It could be because the microchip inside the key has stopped working or because of an issue with the radio signal that is sent between the chip and your car's computer system. Another possibility is that the bottom metal part of the key is worn out or dull, which could interfere with the RF signal.

If this is the situation try another key and try to see if it works. Examine if there's something in the vicinity that could be blocking the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, you should contact locksmiths that specialize in vehicle-transponder keys. They'll test it and possibly repair it. They can identify the issue that caused your transponder to fail and the best way to fix the problem. In the majority of cases, a locksmith will be able to reprogram your key to ensure it functions in your vehicle again.

3. Your car's lock is jammed

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

You may need to lubricate the lock using WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to unlock the lock. These products are available at auto supply stores or home improvement stores. You can attach them to the lock using flatheads or another thin object that you can stick into your keyhole to gain access to the mechanism. If you can't insert the key or key fob and lubricate the lock using this method, try 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 frequent reason for locking your vehicle out. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather or due to the continuous use of the lock, and could cause you to be incapable of opening the door of your car and gain access to your belongings.

One way to avoid this problem is to always keep a spare key secure and replace your key fob battery frequently to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers offer download apps that you can use to remotely unlock your car if it's locked, so be sure to check with your manufacturer to find out whether they offer one.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries power key fobs for cars and can be depleted of power. This problem can be solved by simply replacing the batteries. If your car key fob isn't functioning at all, it could indicate that something else is wrong. If you're experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your vehicle to find out what other steps you can take.

If you've lost your car keys and don't own an extra contact a locksmith for help. Many of these services offer emergency lockout services and may be able to assist you gain access to your car without having to pay for a tow or other recovery service.

You can also use a physical key to unlock your vehicle. The driver's door of most newer cars has a hidden slot for keys. It is usually in the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door. You can also use the fob to push the start button (if necessary). Certain manufacturers have a backup system built into their cars that allow you to start your vehicle using dead fob.

Being locked out of your vehicle is never fun but it can be particularly frustrating when it happens in a strange location. The best way to stop this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere secure at home or with a trusted friend and to replace the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. In addition, you can try to increase your ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit an unique signature that can be connected to a smartphone app. This can be very helpful in finding your keys in case they get lost or misplaced.

5. Your Car's Lock Has Contained Dirt

Over time dirt, grime and other particles can build up in the locks of your car and cause them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To avoid this it is recommended that you be sure to lubricate the hinges and locks of your vehicle at least once a year using WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is an additional option to avoid a car lockout. You can do this by keeping the spare key in your wallet or purse or leaving it with a friend or family member or by giving one to your valet, if you reside in an apartment. You should also keep the contact information of the locksmith you can contact. This will spare you much stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your vehicle.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services that can help drivers regain access to their vehicles in a lockout situation. This includes GM's OnStar service that has been in operation for a long time, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. If none of these options are available, call a towing company within your region to resolve the issue.

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

It's never a good idea to be caught in a car lockout situation. There are a variety of quick solutions to this problem. It is also helpful to have an extra car key and know who to call if you need assistance. Visit us online to learn more. We're happy to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to working with you! You can also contact us at (301) the 777-1877.