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

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

This article focuses on the most common reasons for car keys locked in car lockouts and provides simple DIY solutions, like using an old coat hanger to unlock the doors of your car.

1. You've Forgotten Your Keys

It's a nightmare for every car owner: you're about to make errands, but you leave your 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 reasons for lockouts in vehicles and is a good reason to always keep a spare key in a place that is secure.

Don't panic. It might appear like you've failed, however it's not. Most roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers offer locksmith services for cars, and they're trained to unlock almost every vehicle quickly. They can also help you identify the issue with the lock on your car key lock out to ensure that you don't risk repeating the same issue in the future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag while you travel. You're less likely forget them when you use this method. You can also look for them in common spots, but do not try to conceal them. Thieves know how to be clever and may have already come up with the most popular hiding spots.

Based on the manufacturer of your car, you may be able to utilize an app that converts your smartphone into a key fob. This is especially helpful when you've lost your keys or have left them in the car, and it's available for the majority of modern vehicles. Visit the website of your car maker to determine if it offers an application, and how to install it. It is also advisable to check with your insurance provider to find out whether you're covered in event that you lock your keys in the car. Roadside assistance typically covers these situations, though the exact terms and coverage amount might differ.

2. Your transponder keys have failed

There are few things that are more frustrating when it comes to modern automobiles than being locked out. Fortunately with the help of a professional locksmith, this issue can be solved quickly and with minimal hassle.

Transponder keys have become a standard feature in many automobiles because they provide greater security and efficiency. Like any electronic device transponder keys can have problems and malfunctions from time the time. It is therefore important to recognize the signs that your transponder keys are failing to ensure that it is serviced right away.

The most frequent indication that your transponder key is not working is when it stops working in the lock of your car. It could be due to various reasons. For example, it may be because the microchip inside the key has stopped working, or because there is an issue with the radio signal that is transmitted between the chip and your car's computer system. Another possibility is the bottom metal of the key being worn or dull. This could interfere with the signal.

If this is the situation, try another key to determine whether it will work in the lock of your car. Examine if there's any obstruction nearby that could be blocking the signal. If you still have problems with your key, call locksmiths that specialize in keys for vehicles. They'll be able to test the key and repair it. They can tell you what's causing your transponder's malfunction and the best way to fix the issue. In the majority of instances locksmiths will be able to reprogram the key so that it works in your car again.

3. Your Car's Lock has been jammed

Many car lockouts at the door can be traced 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 can also block your key fob from unlocking the door after you press its button.

You may have to lubricate the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to free Car unlock service it from jamming. These products are available in auto supply stores or home improvement stores. They can be sprayed on the lock with a flathead screwdriver or another thin object that you can stick into your keyhole to access the mechanism behind it. If you are unable to insert the key or the key fob into the lock and lubricate it by this method, try wriggling the mechanism back and forth using needle-nose pliers until it feels free.

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

To avoid this problem to avoid this issue, keep an extra car key in a secure place and replace the battery in your key fob regularly to prolong its life. Some automakers offer apps that you can download to remotely unlock your car when it is locked. Check with your manufacturer to determine if such an app is available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs rely on batteries to operate and sometimes they run out of juice. This problem can be solved by changing the batteries. If your car key fob doesn't work at all, it could be a sign something else is wrong. If you're experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your vehicle to find out what other steps you could take.

If your car's key fob isn't working and you don't have a spare, think about getting a locksmith on call to help you get into your vehicle. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockout assistance and may be able to help gain access to your vehicle without having to pay for a tow or any other recovery services.

You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock your vehicle. The driver's door on most modern cars has a concealed slot for keys. It's usually located under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and then the fob to start the vehicle (if required). Certain manufacturers have built-in backup systems that allow you to start your car with dead keys.

It's never fun to be locked out of your car particularly when it happens in a secluded area. Keep your spare car keys at home or with trusted friends and change the battery of your key fob regularly. In addition, you could try to increase the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a distinct signature that can be connected to an app on your smartphone, which can be very useful in finding your keys when they get lost or are not found.

5. The lock on your car has accumulated dirt

Over time, dirt, grime, and other particles can build up in your car's locks, causing them to jam and prevent you from opening your door. To prevent this from happening it is essential to grease your locks and hinges at a minimum of twice a year with either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another method to avoid having the loss of your vehicle lock is to always keep an extra key in your possession. You can do this by keeping an extra key cut near me open now in your purse or wallet or leaving it with a family member or by giving one to your valet if you reside in an apartment. You should also have the contact number of the locksmith in your area. This will help you save money and stress should you ever have to be locked out of the vehicle.

Many automakers offer roadside assistance that can help users gain access to their vehicle in the event of a lockout. This includes GM's long-running OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service, and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options is available, contact a towing company in your area to resolve the problem.

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

It is not a good idea to be in the situation of being locked out of your car. There are a variety of quick solutions to this problem. A spare key should be kept in your pocket and knowing who you can call for help is always helpful, as well. Visit us online to learn more. We'll be happy to answer all of your questions. We look forward to working with you! You can also contact us at (301) 777-1877.