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

Anyone can be affected by the stress of a car lockout. To avoid this, keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it somewhere safe.

This article explores the most frequent causes of car lockouts and offers some simple DIY solutions, including using an old coat hanger to unlock the doors of your car.

1. You Forgot Your Keys

You're about run errands and you have forgotten your keys in the ignition or on the seat. You're suddenly stuck outside when your door locks itself. This is among the most common reasons for vehicle lock outs and is a good reason to always keep a spare key somewhere secure.

It might feel like a total failure, but don't worry. The majority of roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers provide locksmith services for cars, and they're trained to unlock almost every vehicle quickly. They can also help determine what went wrong with your car's lock, so you can avoid it happening again in the future.

Another way to avoid a vehicle lockout is to keeping your keys in a backpack, purse or other bag that you carry throughout your journey. So you're less likely to lose the keys in a hurry. You can also look for them in common places, but don't try to hide them--thieves are smart and might have considered all the usual hiding spots.

Based on the car's manufacturer, you may have the option to use an app which turns your smartphone into the key fob. This is particularly useful when you've lost your keys or left them in the vehicle and is available for all modern vehicles. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to find out if they've got an application and how to unlock your car door (https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/hyundai-car-key-replacements-near-me) to install it. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered in the event that you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance typically will cover these scenarios. However the specific terms and coverage amounts can vary.

2. Your transponder keys have failed

When it comes to modern vehicles there aren't many things more frustrating than getting locked out of your car. With the assistance of a professional, this issue can be solved quickly and without too much hassle.

Transponder keys have become an integral part of many automobiles because they provide greater security and efficiency. Like any electronic device transponder keys aren't without fault and malfunction from time to the time. It is crucial to be aware of the signs that your transponder's failing to ensure that you get it serviced immediately.

If the transponder keys stop working in the lock of your car This is a common indication. It could be due to many different reasons. For instance, it could be due to the microchip in the key has stopped working, or because of an issue with the RF signal that is transmitted between the chip and the computer in your car's system. Another possibility is that the bottom part of the key is worn out or dull, which may cause interference with the RF signal.

If this is the case, try another key and check if it works. Examine if there's anything nearby that could block the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, contact an expert locksmith who specializes in transponder keys for vehicles. They can test it and perhaps fix it. They can tell you what's causing your transponder to fail and how to open car door without keys to fix the issue. In the majority of instances, a locksmith will be capable of reprogramming the key so that 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, rust and dirt can build up within your lock, which causes it to jam. This can make it difficult, or even impossible to open the door of your car and can also block your key fob from unlocking the door after you press the button.

You may need to lubricate the lock using WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser to unlock the lock. These items can be found at home improvement centers or auto supply shops. They can be glued to the lock with a flathead or other thin object you can stick into your keyhole to gain access to the mechanism. If you are unable to insert the key fob or key key and grease the lock this way, try wiggling it back and forth using needle-nosed pliers.

Another common cause of car lockouts is a damaged link between the door handle, lock cylinder or the interior locking post/switch, and the door latch for your car. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or due to the continuous use of the lock, and could result in you being in a position to not open your car's door and gain access to your items.

One method to avoid this issue is to always keep a spare key somewhere safe and to replace your key fob battery regularly so that it lasts longer. Some automakers even offer downloadable apps that you can use to remotely unlock your car if you're locked out, so be sure to inquire with your manufacturer to find out if they have one available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries charge car key fobs, and they are prone to running out of power. Luckily, you can often resolve this issue by replacing the batteries. However, if your car key fob doesn't work at all it could indicate that something else is not working properly. Refer to the manual of your car in case you're experiencing this issue.

If you have lost your car keys and don't have spare keys, you can call a locksmith for help. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockouts and are capable of helping you gain access to your vehicle without the need to pay for towing or other recovery services.

You can also utilize a physical key to unlock your car. 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 for opening the door, and the fob to start the vehicle (if needed). Some manufacturers have an emergency system built into their vehicles that allows you to start your vehicle with dead fob.

It's never fun being locked out of your vehicle particularly when it happens in a strange area. 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 replace the battery in your key fob regularly. You can also increase the possibility of locating your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that you can connect to an app on your phone that can be useful in finding your keys if they are lost or misplaced.

5. The lock on your car has accumulated dirt

Over time dirt, grime and other debris can accumulate in your car's locks and cause them to jam and block the ability to open your door. To avoid this, you should grease the hinges and locks of your car at least twice a yearly using WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is another option to avoid a car lockout. You can do this by keeping an extra key in your wallet or purse and leaving it with a friend or family member or by giving one to your valet if you live in an apartment building. You should also have the contact number of the locksmith in your area. This will save you much stress and money in the event you are locked out of your car.

Many automakers also provide roadside assistance services that can help drivers regain access to their vehicles during a lockout situation. 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 problem.

If you're in search of a trustworthy and reliable towing service, contact Richman Automotive & Towing today!

It's never a good idea to be locked out of your car. There are a variety of quick solutions to this problem. Keep a spare key in your pocket and knowing who you can call to get help is always helpful and also. For more information, visit us online today. We're here to answer any questions you may have. We look forward working with you. You can also call us at (301) 777-1877.