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

A vehicle lockout can be a stressful and frightening experience that can occur to anyone. To avoid this, keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it in a safe location.

This article explores some common causes of car lockouts and provides some easy DIY solutions, such as using a modified coat hanger made of wire to unlock the door of your car.

1. You've Lost Your Keys

You're running errands, and you have forgotten your keys in the ignition or on the seat. Before you know it, your door locks automatically and you're locked outside. This is one of the most frequent causes for lockouts in vehicles and is a good reason to keep a spare key safe.

Don't get stressed. It might seem as if you've failed but it isn't. Most roadside assistance as well as auto wreckers provide locksmith services and are trained to unlock a car service almost every vehicle quickly. They can also assist you to determine what went wrong with your car's lock so you can prevent it from occurring again in the future.

Another way to avoid a vehicle lockout is to keeping your keys in a purse, backpack or bag that accompanies you throughout your journey. You're less likely to lose them when you take this precaution. You can also search for them in the usual places, but don't try to hide them. Thieves are smart and might have thought of all the typical places to hide.

You could be able make use of an app that transforms your smartphone into a key fob, depending on the car's manufacturer. This is a great option in the event that you've lost your keys, or if they are still in the car. It's a feature that is available on all modern cars. Check the website of your automaker to determine if they have an application, and then how to install it. Contact your insurance company to determine if you're covered when you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually covers these situations. However the exact terms and coverage amounts can vary.

2. Your Transponder Keys have failed

There are few things that are more than a hassle in modern automobiles than being locked out. Fortunately, with the assistance of a professional locksmith, this issue can be resolved quickly and without much hassle.

Transponder keys are now a common feature in all cars, as they offer more security and function. But, just like any other electronic device, they can have issues and failures occasionally. It's important to know the signs that your transponder's failing to ensure that you be sure to have it fixed immediately.

The most typical sign that your transponder key is failing is if it ceases to function in your car's lock. This can happen for various reasons. It could be because the microchip inside the key has stopped working or there's a problem between the RF signal sent by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is that the metal on the bottom part of the key is worn or dull, which could cause interference with the RF signal.

If this is the situation, try using a different key to see if that works. You should also ensure that there's not any obstruction in the area that could block the signal. If you're experiencing issues with your key, you could always contact a locksmith who is specialized in transponder keys for vehicles to test it and possibly repaired. They'll be able tell you exactly what is causing the transponder key to malfunction and the best way to fix it. In most cases locksmiths are capable of reprogramming the key so that it functions in your vehicle again.

3. The lock on your car is stuck

Many car door lockouts can be attributed to a blocked or jammed lock mechanism. Over time, dirt and rust can accumulate inside your lock, causing it to become jammed. This could make it difficult, if not impossible, to open your car's door and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door when you press the button.

You may have to grease the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to unjam. These products can be bought at home improvement centers or at auto supply stores. They can be applied to the lock with a flathead screwdriver or another thin object that you can insert into the keyhole in order to get at the mechanism behind it. If you can't insert the key fob or key key and apply lubrication to the lock this way, try wiggling it back and forth using needle-nosed pliers.

Another reason for vehicle lockouts is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder or the interior locking post/switch, and the car door latch. 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 the door of your vehicle and gain access to your belongings.

One method to avoid this issue is to always keep a spare key somewhere secure and to replace your key fob battery regularly to make sure it lasts longer. Some automakers offer download applications that allow you to remotely unlock cars service your car when it's locked. Be sure to check with the manufacturer to determine 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 are not able to provide juice. This issue can be fixed by changing the batteries. If, however, your car key fob isn't working at all It could be a sign that something else is wrong. If you're experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your vehicle to determine what other steps you could take.

If you have lost your car key and don't own an extra, you can call a locksmith for help. 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 another recovery services.

You can also try using a physical key to open your car door. The driver's side door of many modern cars has a concealed slot for keys. It's usually hidden in the handle cover. Use the mechanical key for opening the door, and then the fob to start the vehicle (if needed). Some manufacturers have backup systems in place that let you start your car using dead keys.

Locked out of your car is never enjoyable and can be particularly frustrating when it occurs in a foreign location. Keep an extra car key at your home or with trusted acquaintances and change the battery on your key fob on a regular basis. You can also improve the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a distinct signature that can be connected to an app on your phone and can be extremely helpful in locating your keys if they are lost or are not found.

5. Your Car's Lock Has Contained Dirt

Over time over time, grime, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in your car door opener service's locks 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 twice per year using WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another way to prevent the possibility of a vehicle lock being lost is to always have an extra key on hand. You can do this in a variety of ways. You can carry a spare in your wallet or purse. Or, you could leave one with a family member or friend. You could also give a set to the valet at your apartment building if it's an apartment complex. In addition to that, keep the contact number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will spare you a lot of stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your car.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services to assist drivers in regaining access to their vehicles during an emergency lockout. 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 resolve the issue.

If you're looking for a professional and reliable towing service, call Richman Automotive & Towing today!

It's never a great thing to be in a car lockout situation. 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 is also helpful. For more information, visit us online today. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to working with you! You can also give us a a call at (301) the 777-1877.