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, always have a spare key and keep it in a safe location.

This article examines the most common causes of car lockout 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 Forgotten Your Keys

It's a nightmare for every car owner: you're about do some errands and you forget your keys on the seat or in the ignition. You're suddenly stuck outside when your door locks itself. This is the most frequent reason behind vehicle lockouts. It's recommended to keep a spare car key in a safe place.

Don't get stressed. It might appear as if you've failed but it isn't. Most roadside assistance and auto wreckers provide locksmith services and are trained to unlock almost any vehicle swiftly. They can also help determine the cause of the problem with the lock on your vehicle to prevent repeating the same issue in the future.

Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag whenever you travel. This way, you're less likely to forget the keys in a hurry. You can also look for them in the most common locations, but be careful not to try to hide them. Thieves are clever and might have considered all the typical hiding spots.

You might be able to use an application that turns your smartphone into the role of a key fob, based on the manufacturer of your car. This is particularly useful when you've lost your keys or left them in the vehicle, and it's available for the majority of modern vehicles. Visit the website of your automaker to determine if it offers an application, and then how to install it. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered if you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance typically will cover these scenarios, but the exact terms and coverage amount might differ.

2. Your transponder keys have failed

There aren't many things that are more frustrating in modern automobiles than being locked out. With the assistance of an expert, this issue can be solved quickly and without too much hassle.

Transponder keys locked in vehicle have become a standard feature in many automobiles due to their increased security and efficiency. However, as with any electronic device, they may suffer from failures and problems occasionally. As such, it's important to know the signs that your transponder key is failing to be able to get it serviced right away.

If your transponder keys cease to work in the lock of your car, this is a common sign. This can be caused by a variety of factors. It could be because the microchip in the key has stopped functioning or there's a problem between the RF signal sent by the chip to the car's computer. Another possibility is that the metal at the bottom of the key being worn or dull. This could interfere with the signal.

If this is the case try using a different key to try to see if it works. Also, ensure that there's not a nearby object blocking the signal. If you're still having trouble with your key, call a locksmith opening car door who specialises in transponder keys for vehicles to have it tested and possibly repaired. They will be able tell you what's causing your transponder's malfunction and how to fix the problem. In the majority of instances locksmiths are in a position to reprogram the key so that it works in your car again.

3. Your Car's Lock has been jammed

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

You may need to lubricate the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to unlock the lock. These are available in auto supply stores or home improvement stores. They can be applied to the lock using a flathead screwdriver or other small object that you can put into the keyhole in order to access the mechanism behind it. If you cannot insert the key or key fob into the lock and then lubricate it this way, try wiggling the mechanism back and forth with needle-nose pliers until you feel free.

Another reason that causes vehicle lockout is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder or interior locking post/switch and the door latch for your car. Extreme weather conditions or constant use of the lock could cause this. Then, you will be unable open the car door and gain access to your belongings.

One way to avoid this issue is to always keep a spare key somewhere secure and to replace the battery on your key fob frequently to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers offer applications that you can download to unlock your car remotely when it is locked. Contact your automaker 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 changing the batteries. If your car key fob doesn't work at all It could be a sign that something else is wrong. If you're having this issue, check the manual for your car to see what other steps you can take.

If you've lost your car keys and don't have spare keys call locksmiths for help. A lot of locksmiths offer emergency lockout services and may be able to assist you gain access to your car without the need to pay for a tow or another recovery service.

You can also utilize a physical key to unlock your car. The driver's side door of many newer vehicles has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually hidden under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key for opening the door, and then the fob to start the vehicle (if needed). Some manufacturers have an emergency system built into their vehicles that allows you to start your car with a dead fob.

Being locked out of your vehicle is never fun but it is especially stressful when it happens in a strange place. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere secure at home or with a trusted friend, and to change the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. Additionally, you can attempt to improve your ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a distinctive signature that you can connect to an app on your phone and can be extremely useful in finding your keys if they are lost or are not found.

5. The lock of your car has been accumulating dirt

Over time dirt, grime and other debris may build up in your car's locks and cause them to jam and prevent you from opening your door. To prevent this from happening it is crucial to keep your locks lubricated and hinges at a minimum of twice every year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is a good method to avoid a lockout. You can do this in a few ways. You can carry an extra key in your purse or wallet. Or, you can leave one with a family member or friend. Or, you can give a set to the valet at your apartment building if it is an apartment complex. You should also have the contact number of the locksmith in your area. This will save you lots of stress and money in the event that you get locked out of your car.

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

Richman automotive lock & Towing is the towing company you need if you want a reliable and professional service.

It's never a good idea to be in a car lockout situation. There are a variety of quick solutions to this issue. A spare key should be kept on hand and knowing who to contact to get help is always helpful, as well. Visit us online to learn more. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. We look forward working with you. You can also give us a call at (301) 777-1877.