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

Everyone can feel the strain of a vehicle lockout. To avoid this, keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it in a safe location.

This article focuses on the most common reasons for car lockouts and provides easy DIY solutions, such as using a modified coat hanger to open your car's doors.

1. You've Forgotten Your Keys

It's a nightmare for every car owner: you're about run errands, and you leave your keys on the seat or in the ignition. Then, before you know it your door locks automatically and you're locked outside. This is one of the most frequent reasons for vehicle lockouts and is a great reason to keep a spare key somewhere secure.

Don't get stressed. It might seem like you've failed, but it isn't. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers offer locksmith services and are trained to open nearly every vehicle quickly. They can also assist you to determine what went wrong with the lock on your car to prevent it from happening again in the future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag whenever you drive. That way you're less likely lose the keys in an instant. You can also search for them in the most common places, but don't attempt to hide them. Thieves are smart and might have thought of all the usual places to hide.

Depending on your car's manufacturer depending on the manufacturer of your car, you could have the option to use an application that turns your smartphone into the key fob. This is a great option if you have lost your keys, or are still in the car. It's a feature that is available on all modern vehicles. Visit the website of your car door open manufacturer to find out if they've got an application and 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 typically will cover these scenarios. However, the exact terms and coverage amounts can differ.

2. Your transponder keys are not working.

In the world of modern automobiles, there are few things more frustrating than getting locked car keys in car 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 common feature in many automobiles, since they provide greater security and emergency car unlocking efficiency. However, as with any electronic device, they can be prone to failures and issues occasionally. Therefore, it's crucial to recognize the signs that your transponder key is not working so you can have it fixed immediately.

The most common indication that your transponder key isn't working is when it stops working in your car's lock. This could be due to various reasons. It could be because the microchip inside 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 that the bottom part of the key is worn or dull, which can interfere with the RF signal.

If this is the situation, try another key to determine whether it works in your car's lock. Examine if there's anything nearby that could be blocking the signal. Finally, if you're still having trouble with your key, seek out a locksmith opening Car Door that is specialized in transponder keys for vehicles to have it checked and possibly repaired. They can identify the issue that caused your transponder's malfunction and the best way to fix the problem. In most instances, a locksmith will be capable of reprogramming your key to ensure it works in your car again.

3. Your Car's Lock has been jammed

A jammed or blocked locking mechanism is the cause of many lockouts at the car door. Over time, dirt, rust, and other impurities may build within your lock and cause it to jam. This can make it extremely difficult to open the car door. It can also hinder you from using your key fob to open the door.

You may have to grease the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to unjam. These are available in auto supply stores or home improvement stores. They can be sprayed on the lock with a flathead screwdriver or another small object that you can put into the keyhole to reach the mechanism behind it. If you cannot insert the key or the key fob into the lock and then lubricate it in this manner, try moving the mechanism back and forth with needle-nose pliers until it feels free.

A damaged link between the lock cylinder the post or interior locking switch and car latch is another frequent cause of vehicle locks out. Extreme weather conditions, or constant use of the lock could cause this. Then you'll be unable to open the car door and gain access to your belongings.

One way to avoid this issue is to always keep a spare key somewhere secure and replace the battery on your key fob regularly so that it lasts longer. Certain automakers have apps that can be downloaded to remotely unlock your car if 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 use batteries to function, and at times they are not able to provide juice. Luckily, you can resolve this issue by replacing the batteries. However, if your car key fob doesn't work at all It could indicate that something else is wrong. If you're experiencing this issue, you should consult the manual for your vehicle to find out what other steps you could take.

If you have lost your car key and don't have spare keys call a locksmith for help. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockout services and could be able to assist you gain access to your car without having to pay for a tow or another recovery services.

You can also use a physical key to unlock your car. The majority of newer cars have a key slot hidden on the driver's side of the door, which is typically hidden 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 vehicles that allows you to start your vehicle with an unresponsive fob.

It's never fun to be locked out of your vehicle and especially when it happens in a remote location. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key secure at home or with a trusted friend and to change the battery on your key fob frequently. You can also improve the ability to locate your keys by investing an Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be connected to an app on your phone, which can be very helpful in locating your keys when they get lost or misplaced.

5. Your Car's Lock Has Ample 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 it is recommended that you lubricate the locks and hinges of your car at least twice per year with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

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

Many automakers offer roadside assistance that can help drivers gain access to their car in the event of a 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 towing company within your region to resolve the issue.

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

You should never be in a situation where you are locked out of your vehicle. There are a variety of quick solutions to this problem. Keeping a spare key on hand and knowing who you can call for help is always helpful and also. Visit us online to learn more. We're happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward to working with you. We can be reached at (301) 777-1877.