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

Everyone can feel the strain of a vehicle lockout. To prevent this from happening, always keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it in a safe place.

This article explores the most common causes of car lockouts, and offers some simple DIY solutions, including using an altered coat hanger to open your car's doors.

1. You've lost your keys

You're running errands, and you forget your keys in the ignition or on the seat. In no time, your door locks automatically and you're trapped outside. This is the most typical reason for locking out of vehicles. It's an excellent idea to keep a spare unlocking car door service key in a secure location.

Don't get stressed. It might seem as if you've failed but it isn't. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers offer locksmith services, and are trained to unlock nearly any car quickly. They can also help identify the issue with the car's lock to ensure that you don't risk it happening again in future.

Another way to avoid a car lockout is by keeping your keys in a backpack, purse or bag that accompanies you on every trip. You're less likely to lose the keys if you take this precaution. You can also look for them in common locations, but don't try to hide them. Thieves can be clever and may have already come up with the most popular hiding spots.

Based on the manufacturer of your Car door lockout, you may be able to utilize an app that turns your smartphone into a key fob. This is a great solution in the event that you've lost your keys, or are still in the car. It's available on most modern cars. Visit the website of your car maker to determine if they have an application, and then how to install it. Check with your insurance provider to find out if you're covered in the event that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually will cover these scenarios. However the exact conditions and coverage amounts may differ.

2. Your Transponder Keys Are Not Working

There are few things that are more frustrating when it comes to modern vehicles 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 keys have become a standard feature in many automobiles due to their increased security and efficiency. Like any electronic device transponder keys locked in vehicle can have problems and malfunction from time to moment. It is important to recognize the indicators that your transponder is not functioning properly to ensure that you get it serviced immediately.

The most typical indication that your transponder key is not working is when it stops working in the lock of your car. This could be due to many reasons. It could be due to the microchip in the key has stopped working or due to an issue with the radio signal that is transmitted 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 can interfere with the signal.

If this is the situation, try a different key to see whether it will work in the lock of your car. Check to see if there's anything nearby that could hinder the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, call locksmiths that specialize in vehicle lockout service-transponder keys. They'll be able to test it and possibly repair it. They'll be able to tell the exact reason for the transponder key to malfunction and how to fix it. In most cases locksmiths will be capable of reprogramming the key so that it functions in your vehicle again.

3. Your Car's Lock is Jammed

A blocked or jammed locking mechanism is the reason of many car door lockouts. Over time, dirt and rust can accumulate within your lock, causing it to jam. This can make it very difficult to open the car your car door. It can also hinder you from using your key fob to unlock the door.

If you are in this situation, you may need to lubricate your lock with a penetrating catalyst or WD-40 in order to unjam it. These products are available at auto supply stores or at home improvement stores. They can be put on the lock with a flathead screwdriver or other small object that you can put into the keyhole to access the mechanism behind it. If you cannot insert the key or key fob into the lock and then lubricate it in this manner, try moving the mechanism back and forth using needle-nose pliers until it feels free.

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 car door latch. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather 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 belongings.

One way to avoid this issue is to always keep a spare key secure and replace the battery on your key fob regularly so that it lasts longer. Some automakers also offer download apps that can be used to remotely unlock your car if you're locked out, so be sure to contact the manufacturer to determine whether they have a solution available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries are used to power key fobs for cars and they can run out of power. Luckily, you can often resolve this issue by replacing the batteries. If your car key fob doesn't function at all, it could indicate something else is wrong. If you're experiencing this issue, you should consult the manual for your car to determine what other steps you could take.

If you have lost your car keys and don't have an extra contact locksmiths for assistance. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockout services and may be able to assist you gain access to your car without having to pay for a tow or other recovery services.

You can also try using a physical key to open your car door. The driver's door on most newer vehicles has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually located under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door. You can also use the fob to push the start button (if required). Certain manufacturers have built-in backup systems that allow you to start your car with a dead key.

Locked out of your vehicle is never a pleasant experience, and it can be especially frustrating when it happens in a strange place. The best way to stop this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere secure at home or with a trusted friend and to replace the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. You can also enhance the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit an unique signature that can be connected to a mobile app. This can be very helpful in finding your keys if they are lost or misplaced.

5. Your Car's Lock Has Ample Dirt

Over time, grime and dirt build up inside the lock of your car. This could cause it to become blocked and stop you from opening the door. To prevent this from happening it is crucial to lubricate your locks and hinges at least twice each year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is an additional method to avoid a lockout. You can do this in a variety of ways. You can carry a spare in your purse or wallet. Or, you can leave it with someone in your family or with a friend. Or, you could give a set to the valet of your apartment if it's an apartment complex. In addition to that, keep the number of your locksmith handy. This will save you much stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your car.

Many automakers also provide roadside assistance services that can help drivers regain access to their vehicles during an incident 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 is available, call a local towing company in your area to fix the problem.

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

It's never a good thing to find yourself locked out of your car. There are many quick solutions to this problem. A spare key should be kept on hand and knowing who to call to get help is always helpful, as well. For more information, visit us online today. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward to working with you! You can also give us a call at (301) 777-1877.