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

Vehicle lock out can be a stressful and frightening experience that can occur to anyone. To avoid this, always keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it in a safe location.

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

1. You forgot your keys

You're about run errands and you forget your keys in the ignition or on the seat. Then you're locked outside because your door locks itself. This is among the most frequent causes for vehicle lockouts and is a great reason to always keep a spare key somewhere secure.

Don't get stressed. It might appear as if you've failed but it isn't. Most roadside assistance and auto wreckers offer locksmith services and are trained to unlock almost any car quickly. They can also help determine the cause of the problem with the car's lock to prevent it happening again in future.

Another method to avoid having your car lockout is by keeping your keys in a backpack, purse or other bag you take with you throughout your journey. So you're less likely lose the keys in the midst of. You can also search for them in common locations, but don't try to conceal them. Thieves know how to open car door without keys to be clever and may have already thought of the most common hiding places.

You may be able to use an application that can turn your phone into an electronic key fob, based on the manufacturer of your car. This is particularly useful in the event that you've lost your keys or put them in your vehicle and is available for most modern automobiles. Check your automaker's website to see if they have an app and how to install it. You should also check with your insurance provider to determine whether you're covered in case that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually will cover these scenarios, but the exact terms and coverage amount may vary.

2. Your Transponder Keys have failed

There are few things more than a hassle when it comes to modern automobiles than being i locked my car keys in my car out. Fortunately, with the help of a professional locksmith, this problem can be resolved quickly and without a lot of hassle.

Transponder keys are a standard in most automobiles because they offer greater security and functionality. However, like any other electronic device, they may have issues and failures occasionally. Therefore, it's crucial to understand what signs your transponder key is not working to ensure that it is serviced right away.

If the transponder keys stop working in the car lock This is a common sign. This could be due to many reasons. It could be because the microchip in the key is not functioning properly or there is a problem between the RF signal sent by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is the bottom metal of the key becoming worn or dull. This could interfere with the signal.

If this is the case try another key and see if that works. Check to see if there's anything nearby that could be blocking the signal. Finally, if you're still experiencing issues with your key, you can seek out a locksmith that specializes in vehicle transponder keys to have it tested and possibly repaired. They'll be able tell you precisely what's causing your transponder keys to fail and the best way to fix it. In most cases your locksmith will be capable of reprogramming your key to allow it to work in your vehicle.

3. The lock on your car is stuck

Many car lockouts at the door can be traced to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time, dirt and rust build up within your lock, causing it to block. This could make it difficult or even impossible to open the car's door and can also block your key fob from unlocking the door when you press its button.

It is possible to lubricate the lock using WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to free it from jamming. These products can be bought at home improvement stores or auto supply shops. They can be applied to the lock using a flathead screwdriver or other thin object that you could put into the keyhole to access the mechanism behind it. If you are unable to insert the key or the 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 common cause of vehicle lockout is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder or interior locking post/switch and the door latch for your car unlock services. Extreme weather conditions or continuous use of the lock can cause this. Then, you will be unable open the car door and gain access to your belongings.

To avoid this problem to avoid this issue, keep a spare car key in a safe location and change the battery in the key fob frequently to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers also offer download applications that allow you to remotely unlock your car if you're locked out, so be sure to contact the manufacturer to determine if they have one available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs use batteries to function, and at times they are not able to provide juice. Fortunately, you can usually solve this issue by replacing the batteries. If your car's key fob isn't working at all, it could indicate something else is wrong. Consult the manual of your vehicle when you're experiencing this issue.

If your car's key fob doesn't work, and you don't have a spare, you should consider getting a locksmith on call to help you get into your vehicle. A lot of locksmiths offer emergency lockouts and may be in a position to help you gain access to your vehicle lock out service without paying for towing or other recovery services.

You could also try using a physical key to open the door of your car. The majority of newer cars come with a key slot hidden on the driver's side of the door, which is typically located behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key for opening the door, and then the fob to start the vehicle (if required). Some manufacturers have backup systems in place that allow you to start your car locked with dead keys.

Being locked out of your car is never a pleasant experience but it is especially stressful when it happens in a strange area. The best way to avoid this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere safe at home, or with a trusted person, and to change the battery on your key fob frequently. In addition, you could try to increase your ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a distinct signature that you can connect to an app on your smartphone that can be helpful in locating your keys when they are lost or are not found.

5. The lock on your car has accumulated dirt

Over time over time, grime, dirt, and other debris can accumulate within the locks of your car which can cause them to become jammed and hinder you from opening your door. To avoid this, it is important to grease your locks and hinges at least twice every year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another way to prevent a vehicle lock out is to always keep an extra key in your possession. You can do this by carrying the spare key in your purse or wallet and leaving it with a friend or family member, or donating a set to your valet if you live in an apartment. You should also keep the contact information of the locksmith you can contact. This will save you money and stress should you ever have to be locked out of the vehicle.

Many automakers also provide roadside assistance to enable drivers to access their vehicles during an incident of lockout. This includes GM's long-standing OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service and Hyundai Blue Link. 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 to get a reliable and professional service.

It's never a great thing to be caught in a car lockout situation. There are several quick solutions to this problem. Keeping a spare key on hand and knowing who to call for assistance is always beneficial and is also helpful. To learn more, please visit us online today. We will be happy to answer all of your questions. We look forward to working with you. We can be reached at (301) 777-1877.