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

Anyone can be affected by the stress of a car lockout. To avoid this ensure you keep a spare car key in a safe location.

This article explores some common causes of car lockout and suggests 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 locked out of car (browse around this site)

You're preparing to run errands when you forget your keys in the ignition or on the seat. Then, before you know it your door locks automatically and you're locked outside. This is among the most frequent reasons for vehicle lockouts and is a great reason to keep a spare key secure.

Don't be worried. It may seem like you've failed, but it isn't. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers provide locksmith services and are trained to unlock nearly any vehicle swiftly. They can also assist you to identify the issue with the lock out service on your car to ensure that you don't risk it from happening again in the future.

Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag while you travel. That way you're less likely lose your keys in a hurry. You can also look for them in the usual locations, but don't try to conceal them. Thieves know how to be clever and might have already thought of the most common hiding places.

You might be able to use an application that turns your smartphone in the role of a key fob, based on the car's manufacturer. This is a great solution if you have lost your keys, or are still in the car. It's accessible on many modern vehicles. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to see if they have an app and how to configure it. It is also advisable to check with your insurance company to find out whether you're covered in case that you lock your keys in the car. Roadside assistance typically will cover these scenarios. However the specific conditions and coverage amounts may differ.

2. Your Transponder Keys Are Not Working

In the world of modern automobiles there's nothing more frustrating than being locked out of your car. With the help of a professional, this problem can be solved quickly and without a lot of hassle.

Transponder keys are now a standard feature in most cars because they offer increased security and function. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys aren't without fault and malfunctions from time to moment. It is important to recognize the signs that your transponder is failing to ensure that you be sure to have it fixed immediately.

The most typical sign that your transponder key is not working is when it ceases to function in the lock of your car. This can be caused by a variety of factors. It could be that the microchip in the key has stopped working or there is a glitch with the RF signal transmitted by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is the bottom metal of the key is worn or dull. This can interfere with the signal.

If this is the scenario, try using an alternative key to see if it works inside the lock of your car. You should also make sure that there isn't an object in the vicinity that blocks the signal. If you still have problems with your key, contact an expert locksmith who specializes in transponder keys for vehicles. They'll be able to test the key and repair it. They'll be able to inform you exactly what is causing your transponder keys to fail and the best way to fix it. In the majority of cases, a locksmith will be able to reprogram your key to ensure it can work in your car again.

3. Your car's lock is jammed

A blocked or jammed locking mechanism is the reason of many lockouts at the car door. Over time, dirt and rust can build up inside the lock, making it block. This could make it difficult or even impossible to open your car's door and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door after you press its button.

If you find yourself in this situation, you may need to lubricate your lock using penetrating catalysts or WD-40 to free it. These products can be purchased at home improvement stores or at auto supply stores. They can be put on 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 can't insert the key fob or key key and grease the lock using this method, try wriggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.

Another common cause of car lockouts is a damaged link between the door handle, lock cylinder or the interior locking switch/post/switch and the door latch for your car. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather conditions or by the constant use of the lock, and could result in you being in a position to not open the door of your car and access your belongings.

To avoid this to avoid this issue, keep the spare car key in a secure location and change the battery in your key fob regularly to make it last longer. Certain automakers have applications that you can download to unlock your car remotely in case it is locked. Check with your manufacturer to find out if a solution is available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries power car key fobs and they are prone to running out of power. Luckily, you can resolve this issue by replacing the batteries. If your car unlockers key fob doesn't work at all it could be a sign that something else is not working properly. Check the manual for your vehicle when you're experiencing this issue.

If you have lost your car key and don't have an extra call a locksmith for help. A lot of locksmiths offer emergency lockout services and could 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 unlock your car's door. Most modern vehicles have a key slot hidden on the driver's side of the door, which is usually found behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door and use the fob to push the start button (if it is required). Some manufacturers have an emergency system built into their cars that allow you to start your vehicle with a dead fob.

Being locked out of your vehicle is never enjoyable but it can be particularly frustrating when it happens in a strange area. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere safe at home, or with a trusted friend and to replace the battery in your key fob regularly. You can also improve the ability to locate your keys by investing an Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that you can connect to an app on your smartphone that can be useful in finding your keys when they get lost or are not found.

5. Your Car's Lock Has Accumulated Dirt

Over time dirt, grime and other debris can accumulate in the locks of your car and cause them to jam and block the ability to open your door. To prevent this from happening it is essential to keep your locks lubricated and hinges at least once each year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is an additional option to avoid a car lockout. You can accomplish this in several ways. You can keep an extra key in your wallet or purse. You can also leave one with an individual from your family or a friend. You could also offer a set to the valet of your apartment building if it's an apartment complex. Additionally to that, keep the number of your locksmith handy. This will save you money and stress should you ever need to get locked out of your vehicle.

Many automakers provide roadside assistance that can help drivers gain access to their car in a lockout scenario. This includes GM's enduring OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options is available, call a towing company in your area to fix the problem.

If you're in search of a professional and reliable towing service, call Richman Automotive & Towing today!

You shouldn't ever be in a situation where you are locked out of your vehicle unlock service. There are a variety of quick solutions to this issue. A spare key should be kept on hand and knowing who to call for assistance is always beneficial and also. Visit us online to find out more. We're 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.