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 secure place.

This article examines the most common causes of car lockout and offers some simple DIY techniques, like using a modified wire coat hanger to unlock the door of your car.

1. You forgot your keys

It's a nightmare scenario for any car owner: you're about to do some errands and you leave your keys on the seat or in the ignition. In no time, your door locks automatically, and you're locked outside. This is among the most frequent causes for vehicle lock outs and is a good reason to always keep a spare key secure.

It might feel like a total failure, but don't worry. The majority of roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers offer locksmith services for cars, and they're trained to open almost any car quickly. They can also assist you to determine what went wrong with the lock on your vehicle so you can prevent it from repeating itself in the future.

Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag while you drive. You're less likely to lose the keys when you use this method. You can also search for them in the most common places, but don't attempt to hide them. Thieves know how to be clever and may have already come up with the most common hiding places.

Based on the car's manufacturer You may have the option to use an app that converts your smartphone into a key fob. This is a great solution in the event that you've lost your keys, or if they are still in the car. It's available on most modern cars. Visit the website of your automaker to see if it has an application, and how to install it. It is also advisable to check with your insurance provider to determine whether you're covered in the event that you lock your keys in the car. Roadside assistance typically will cover these scenarios, but the exact terms and coverage amount may vary.

2. Your Transponder Keys have failed

In the world of modern automobiles, there are few things more frustrating than being locked out of your vehicle. With the help of an expert, this issue can be solved quickly and without a lot of hassle.

Transponder keys are a standard in most cars, as they offer greater security and efficiency. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys may have issues and malfunctions from time moment. As such, it's important to understand what signs your transponder keys are failing to ensure that it is serviced right away.

The most typical indication that your transponder keys isn't working is when it ceases to function in the lock of your car. It could be due to a variety of factors. It could be that the microchip inside the key has stopped functioning or there is a glitch between the RF signal sent by the chip to the car's computer. Another possibility is that the bottom part of the key is worn or dull, which may interfere with the RF signal.

If this is the situation try another key and see if that works. Examine if there's any obstruction nearby that could hinder the signal. Finally, if you're still experiencing issues with your key, you could always contact a locksmith who specialises in transponder keys for vehicles to have it checked and possibly repaired. They'll be able to inform you exactly what is causing the transponder key to malfunction and how to fix it. In the majority of instances your locksmith will be capable of reprogramming your key to make it work again in your vehicle.

3. Your car's lock is jammed

Many car lockouts on doors can be attributed to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time, dirt, rust, and other impurities could build up inside the lock, causing it to block. This could make it difficult, if not impossible, to open the door of your car and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door when you press the button.

If you find yourself in this position you might need to grease your lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyst to free it. These are available at auto supply shops or home improvement centers. They can be sprayed on the lock using a flathead screwdriver or other thin object that you can insert into the keyhole in order to get at the mechanism behind it. If you cannot insert the key or key fob into the lock and lubricate it by this method, try wriggling the mechanism with needle-nose pliers until it feels free.

A broken link between the lock cylinder interior locking switch/post and the car latch is another common reason why locks on vehicles fail. Extreme weather conditions or constant use of the lock may cause this. Then, you will be unable open the car door and gain access to your belongings.

One method to avoid this problem is to always keep a spare key secure and replace your key fob battery regularly so that it lasts longer. Some automakers offer apps that you can download to remotely unlock your car when it is locked. Contact your automaker to find out if one is available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs rely on batteries to function and, sometimes, they run out of juice. Fortunately, you can usually solve this issue by replacing the batteries. If your car's key fob doesn't work in any way, it could indicate that something else is not working. Consult the manual of your car if you're experiencing this problem.

If your car key fob doesn't work and you don't have a spare, you should consider hiring a locksmith to assist you in getting into your vehicle. Many of these services offer emergency lockout services and may be able to help you gain access to your car without having to pay for a tow or other recovery service.

You can also utilize a physical key to unlock your vehicle. The majority of newer cars have a hidden key slot on the driver's side of the door, which is usually located behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door and use the fob to push the start button (if required). Some manufacturers have backup systems in place that let you start your car using dead keys.

It's not fun to be locked out of my car help out of your car particularly when it happens in a strange area. Keep your spare car keys at your home or with trusted acquaintances and change the battery of your key fob on a regular basis. You can also increase the possibility of locating your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be connected to an app on your phone that can be useful in finding your keys if they are lost or are not found.

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, causing them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To prevent this from happening it is essential to grease your locks and hinges at a minimum of twice every year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another method to avoid having the loss of your vehicle lock is to always keep a spare key on hand. You can do this in a variety of ways. You can carry the spare key in your wallet or purse. Or, you can leave it with an individual from your family or a friend. Or, you could give the set to the valet of your apartment building if it's an apartment complex. In addition to that, keep the number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will help you save money and stress if you ever get locked out of the vehicle.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services to assist drivers in regaining access to their vehicles during a lockout situation. This includes GM's long-running OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options are available, contact a local towing service to resolve the problem.

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

It's never a good idea to find yourself locked out of your car. There are many quick solutions to this issue. Keep a spare key in your pocket and knowing who you can call for assistance is always beneficial, as well. Visit us online to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward working with you. We can be reached at (301) the 777-1877.