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

Vehicle lock out can be a stressful and frightening experience that can happen to anyone. To prevent this from happening ensure you keep a spare car key in a secure place.

This article examines the most frequent causes of car lockouts, and provides simple DIY solutions, like using an old coat hanger to open the doors of your car.

1. You've Lost Your Keys

You're about run errands and you forgot your keys in the ignition or on the seat. In no time, your door locks automatically, and you're locked outside. This is among the most common reasons for lockouts in vehicles and is a great reason to keep a spare key secure.

It may appear like a complete failure, but don't worry. Most roadside assistance as well as auto wreckers offer locksmith services and are trained to unlock almost any vehicle swiftly. They can also assist you to identify the issue with your car's lock, so you can prevent it from repeating itself in the future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag whenever you drive. This way, you're less likely to forget the keys in an instant. You can also look for them in common places, but don't try to hide them. Thieves are clever and might have considered all the typical hiding spots.

Depending on your car's manufacturer, you may have the option to use an application which turns your smartphone into the key fob. This is particularly useful if you've lost your keys or have left them in the car and is compatible with the majority of modern automobiles. Visit the website of your car maker to determine if it offers an application, and then how to install it. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered when you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually covers these kinds of situations. However the specific conditions and coverage amounts may differ.

2. Your transponder keys have failed

In the world of modern vehicles, there are few things more frustrating than getting locked out of your car. With the help of a professional, this issue can be solved quickly and without much hassle.

Transponder keys are now standard in most automobiles because they offer greater security and efficiency. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys aren't without fault and malfunction from time to moment. It is crucial to be aware of the signs that your transponder's failing, so you can 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 many reasons. For example, it may be due to the microchip in the key is not working properly or because of a problem with the RF signal that is transmitted between the chip and the computer in your car's system. Another possibility is the metal on the bottom of the key becoming worn or dull. This could cause interference with the signal.

If this is the situation, try another key and try to see if it works. Examine if there's any obstruction nearby that could hinder the signal. If you're experiencing issues with your key, you can seek out a locksmith that is specialized in transponder keys for vehicles to test it and possibly repaired. They will be able tell you what's causing the transponder to malfunction and the best way to fix the issue. In the majority of instances locksmiths are able to reprogram the key so that it functions in your vehicle again.

3. Your car's lock is jammed

A jammed or blocked locking mechanism is the root of many car door lockouts. Over time, dirt and rust can build up inside your lock, making it jam. This can make it difficult to open your car door. It can also hinder you from using your key fob to open the door.

It is possible to lubricate the lock using WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser to unjam. These products can be found at auto supply shops or home improvement centers. They can be applied to the lock using a flathead screwdriver, or any other thin object that you could put into the keyhole in order to reach the mechanism behind it. If you cannot insert the key or the key fob into the lock and then lubricate it this way, try wiggling the mechanism back and forth using needle-nose pliers until you feel 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. Extreme weather conditions or continuous use of the lock could cause this. You will then be unable to open your car door and gain access to your belongings.

To avoid this problem, you can keep an extra car key in a safe location and change the battery in your key fob on a regular basis to make it last longer. Some automakers offer download applications that allow you to remotely Unlock Cars Service your car when it's locked, so be sure to inquire with the manufacturer to determine whether they have a solution available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries are used to power key fobs for cars and they can run out of power. This problem can be solved by simply changing the batteries. If your car's key fob isn't working at all, it could indicate that something else is not working. If you're experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your vehicle to determine what other steps you can take.

If your car door opening service key fob doesn't work and you don't have a spare, consider getting a locksmith on call to assist you with accessing your vehicle. Many of these services offer emergency lockout services and may be able to help you gain access to your car without the need to pay for a tow or any other recovery service.

You can also use a physical key to unlock your car. The driver's door on most newer cars has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually located under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and the fob to start the vehicle (if needed). Certain manufacturers have an automatic backup system in their car that allows you to start your vehicle with an unresponsive fob.

It's not fun to be locked out of your vehicle and especially when it happens in a strange location. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere safe at home, or with a trusted person, and to change the battery in your key fob regularly. Additionally, you can try to improve the ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a unique signature which you can connect to a mobile app. This can be very useful in locating your keys if they are lost or misplaced.

5. The lock on your car has accumulated dirt

Over time dirt, grime and other debris may build up within the locks of your car and cause them to jam and prevent you from opening your door. To avoid this, it is important to grease your locks and hinges at least twice a year with either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another way to prevent a vehicle lock out is to always keep an extra key on hand. You can do this by keeping the spare key in your purse or wallet and leaving it with a family member or giving a set to your valet if you live in an apartment. In addition, you should also keep the number of your locksmith on hand. This will help you save money and stress should you ever need to get locked out of the vehicle.

Many automakers offer roadside assistance to help users gain access to their car in a lockout scenario. This includes GM’s OnStar service, which has been around for years, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. If none of these options are available, contact a local towing service to solve the issue.

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

It's never a good idea to find yourself in a car lockout situation. There are many quick solutions to this problem. It is also helpful to have a spare car key and know who to call if you require assistance. To learn more, please visit us online today. We are happy to answer any questions you might have. We look forward working with you. We can be reached at (301) 7777-1877.