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, always keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it in a safe place.

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

1. You've Forgotten Your Keys

It's a nightmare scenario for any car owner: you're about to do some errands and you forget keys on the seat or in the ignition. Then you're locked outside because your door locks by itself. This is one of the most frequent causes for lockouts in vehicles and is a good reason to always keep a spare key safe.

It may seem like a complete failure, but don't worry. Many roadside assistance programs as well as auto wreckers offer locksmith services for cars, and they're trained to open almost every vehicle quickly. They can also assist you to figure out what went wrong with the lock on your vehicle so you can avoid it repeating itself in the future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag while you drive. That way you're less likely to lose your keys in a hurry. You can also search for them in the most common locations, but be careful not to try to hide them--thieves are smart and might have considered all the typical hiding spots.

You may be able to use an application that turns your phone into the role of a key fob, based on the manufacturer of your car. This is a great option for those who have lost their left keys in car, or are still in the car. It's a feature that is available on all modern cars. Visit the website of your automaker to determine if it offers an application, and how to get keys out of locked car to install it. You should also check with your insurance provider to determine whether you're covered in the case that you lock your keys in the car. Roadside assistance usually will cover these scenarios, but exact terms and coverage amounts might differ.

2. Your Transponder Keys Are Not Working

In the world of modern vehicles there aren't many things more frustrating than being locked out of your car. With the help of a professional, this issue can be resolved quickly, and without a lot of hassle.

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

If the transponder keys stop working in the lock of your car This is a common sign. It could be due to many reasons. For instance, it could be because the microchip inside the key has stopped working, or because there is a problem with the RF signal that is sent between the chip and your car's computer system. Another possibility is that the metal at the bottom of the key is worn or dull. This could interfere with the signal.

If this is the situation try another key and check if it works. Look for something in the vicinity that could block the signal. If you're having trouble with your key, you can seek out a locksmith that is specialized in transponder keys for vehicles to have it checked and possibly repaired. They can to identify what's causing your transponder to fail and how to get your keys out of a locked car to fix the issue. In the majority of instances, your locksmith will be in a position to reprogram your key and enable it to function again in your vehicle.

3. The lock on your car is blocked

Many car lockouts on doors can be attributed to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time, rust and dirt build up within your lock, causing it to become jammed. This could make it difficult, or even impossible to open the car's door and may also prevent your key fob from unlocking the door after you press the button.

If you are in this situation, you may need to lubricate your lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyst to free it. These are available at auto supply stores or home improvement stores. You can attach them to the lock using a flathead or other thin object that you can stick in your keyhole to access the mechanism. If you can't 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 vehicle lockout is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder or the interior locking post/switch, and the door latch of the car. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather conditions or by the constant use of the lock, and could result in you being unable to open your car's door and gain access to your items.

One method to avoid this problem is to always keep a spare key somewhere secure and to replace the battery on your key fob regularly so that it lasts longer. Certain automakers have applications that can be downloaded to remotely unlock your car when it is locked. Contact your manufacturer to find out if a solution is available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs require batteries to function, and at times they run out of juice. This issue can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries. If your car key fob isn't working at all, it could be a sign that something else is wrong. If you are experiencing this issue, you should consult the manual for your vehicle to determine what other steps you can take.

If you've lost your car lockout assistance keys and don't own an extra, you can call locksmiths for help. Many of these services provide emergency lockouts and may be able help you gain entry to your vehicle without having to pay an additional tow fee or recovery services.

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 typically hidden behind the handle cover. Make use of the mechanical key to open the door, and then the fob to start the vehicle (if needed). Some manufacturers have a backup system built into their vehicles that allows you to start your vehicle by using an unresponsive fob.

Getting locked out of your vehicle is never fun, and it is especially stressful when it occurs in a foreign location. Keep your spare car keys at home or with trusted family members and change the battery of your key fob regularly. You can also try to enhance the ability to locate your keys by investing an Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a distinct signature that you can connect to an app on your phone and can be extremely useful in finding your keys when they get lost or are not found.

5. The lock on your car has accumulated dirt

Over time, grime and dirt can build up in the lock of your car. This can cause it to become jammed and prevent you from opening the door. To prevent this from happening, it is important to lubricate your locks and hinges at a minimum of twice each year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another method to avoid having a vehicle lock out is to always keep a spare key on hand. You can accomplish this in several ways. You can carry an extra key in your purse or wallet. Or, you could leave one with a family member or friend. Or, you can offer a set to the valet of your apartment if it's an apartment complex. Additionally, you should also keep the contact number of your locksmith on hand. This will help you avoid a lot of stress and money in the event that you get locked out of your vehicle.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services to enable drivers to access their vehicles during an incident of lockout. This includes GM's enduring OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options are available, contact a towing company within your region to resolve the problem.

Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing service you need for dependable and professional service.

It's never a good idea to find yourself locked myself out out of your car. There are a variety of quick solutions to this issue. It is also helpful to have a spare car key and be aware of who to call should you need help. To learn more, please visit us on the internet today. We'll be happy to answer all of your questions. We look forward to working with you. You can also give us the number (301) 777-1877.