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

Vehicle lock out is a stressful experience that can occur to anyone. To avoid this, have a spare key and keep it in a safe place.

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

1. You've Forgotten Your Keys

You're running errands, and you forget your keys in the ignition or on the seat. Before you know it, your door locks automatically and you're locked outside. This is among the most frequent causes for vehicle lockouts and is a good reason to keep a spare key in a place that is secure.

It might appear like a complete failure, but don't panic. The majority of roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers provide locksmith services for vehicles, and they're trained to unlock almost any car quickly. They can also help determine what went wrong with the lock on your vehicle so you can stop it from occurring again in the future.

Keep your keys in your backpack, purse, or bag when you drive. You're less likely to lose them if you take this precaution. You can also search for them in common locations, but be careful not to try to hide them. Thieves are clever and might have thought of all the usual hiding spots.

You may be able to use an application that can turn your phone into the role of a key fob, based on the car manufacturer. This is a great option if you have lost your keys, or are still in the car. It's available on most modern cars. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to see if they have an app and how to set it up. Contact your insurance company to determine if you're covered in the event that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually covers these situations. However the exact conditions and coverage amounts may differ.

2. Your transponder keys have failed

There aren't many things more frustrating in modern cars than being locked out. Luckily, with the assistance of a skilled locksmith, this problem can be resolved quickly and without a lot of hassle.

Transponder left keys in car have become an integral part of many automobiles due to their increased security and efficiency. But, just like any other electronic device, they are prone to have issues and failures from time to time. Therefore, it's crucial to understand what signs your transponder key is not working to ensure that it is serviced right away.

The most common indication that your transponder keys is failing is if it ceases to function in the lock of your car. This can happen for various reasons. It could be that the microchip inside the key has stopped functioning or there is a problem between the RF signal sent by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is that the metal on the bottom part of the key is worn down or dull, which can hinder 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 be blocking the signal. If you're still 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'll be able tell you precisely what's causing your transponder keys locked in vehicle to fail and how to fix it. In most instances, your locksmith will be capable of reprogramming your key to allow it to work in your vehicle.

3. Your Car's Lock is Jammed

Many car door lockouts can be attributed to a blocked or jammed lock mechanism. Over time dirt, rust and other impurities can build in the lock, causing it to jam. This can make it extremely difficult to open the car door. It could also stop you from using your key fob to unlock the door.

If you find yourself in this situation, you may need to grease your lock with penetrating catalysts or WD-40 to free it. These products can be found at auto supply stores or at home improvement stores. They can be sprayed on the lock using a flathead screwdriver or another thin object that you could insert into the keyhole to reach the mechanism behind it. If you can't insert the key or key fob to grease the lock using this method, try wriggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.

Another reason for vehicle lockouts is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder, or the interior locking switch/post/switch and the car door latch. This can be caused by extreme weather or due to the continuous use of the lock and can result in your being unable to open the door of your vehicle and gain access to your belongings.

To avoid this to avoid this issue, keep the spare car key in a secure place and replace the battery of the key fob frequently to prolong its life. Some automakers offer download apps that can be used to remotely unlock your car if you're locked out, so be sure to contact your manufacturer to see if they have one available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs rely on batteries to operate and sometimes they are not able to provide juice. This issue can be resolved by changing the batteries. If your car's key fob isn't working in any way, it could indicate something else is not working. Refer to the manual of your car if you're experiencing this problem.

If you've lost your car keys and don't own spare keys call locksmiths for help. Many of these services provide emergency lockouts, and could be capable of helping you gain access to your vehicle without paying for towing or other recovery services.

You could also try using a key to open your car door. Most newer vehicles come with 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 the fob to start the vehicle (if required). Certain manufacturers have built-in backup systems that allow you to start your car using a dead key.

It's never fun to be locked out of car help out of your car and especially when it happens in a remote place. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere safe at home, or with a trusted person, and to change the battery in your key fob regularly. You can also enhance the ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be linked to an app on your phone and can be extremely helpful in locating your keys if they are lost or have been misplaced.

5. Your Car's Lock has Accumulated Dirt

Over time dirt, grime and other debris may build up in your car's locks and cause them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To avoid this, you should lubricate the locks and hinges of your car at least once a year using WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another method to avoid having the loss of your vehicle lock is to always have an extra key on hand. You can do this in a variety of ways. You can carry an extra key in your purse or wallet. Or, you could leave one with someone in your family or with a friend. Or, you could give the set to the valet at your apartment building if it is an apartment complex. In addition you should keep the contact number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will help you avoid lots of stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your vehicle.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance to help drivers regain access to their vehicles during a lockout situation. This includes GM's OnStar service that has been in operation for a long time, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. If none of these options is available, call a towing company within your region to resolve the issue.

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

You should never be in the situation of being locked out of your car. There are a variety of quick solutions for this problem. Keeping a spare key in your pocket and knowing who to call for help is always helpful, as well. For more information, visit us on the internet today. We are happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward to working with you. We can be reached at (301) 7777-1877.