Vehicle Lock Out – Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
Locking out your vehicle is a stressful experience that can occur to anyone. To avoid this, have a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe location.
This article outlines some of the common causes of car lockouts and suggests some easy DIY solutions, such as using an altered wire coat hanger to open the door of your car.
1. You’ve lost your keys
It’s a nightmare scenario for every car owner: you’re about make errands, but you forget your keys on the seat or in the ignition. Before you know it, your door locks automatically and you’re stuck outside. This is among the most common reasons for vehicle lockouts and is a good reason to always keep a spare key somewhere secure.
It may appear like a complete failure, but don’t panic. Many roadside assistance programs as well as auto wreckers provide locksmith services for vehicles, and they’re trained to unlock nearly every vehicle quickly. They can also help identify the issue with your car’s lock, so you can avoid it repeating itself in the future.
Another method to avoid having your vehicle lock out is by keeping your keys in a purse, backpack or other bag you take with you throughout your journey. This way, you’re less likely to forget them in a hurry. You can also look for them in the usual spots, but do not try to hide them. Thieves can be clever and may have already come up with the most popular hiding spots.
You might be able to use an application that can turn your phone into a key fob, depending on the car manufacturer. This is a great option for those who have lost their keys, or are still in the car. It’s accessible on many modern cars. Check your automaker’s website to determine if they offer an application and how to set it up. Contact your insurance company to determine if you’re covered when you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance typically is covered in these instances, however exact terms and coverage amounts may vary.
2. Your Transponder Keys have failed
When it comes to modern automobiles, there are few things more frustrating than getting locked out of your car. Fortunately with the assistance of a skilled locksmith, this issue can be resolved quickly and with minimal hassle.
Transponder keys have become a standard feature in many automobiles due to their increased security and function. However, as with any electronic device, they can be prone to failures and issues occasionally. It is therefore important to recognize the signs that your transponder keys are failing so you can have it repaired immediately.
If your transponder keys stop working in the car lock This is a common sign. This could be due to various reasons. It could be due to the microchip in the key has stopped working, or because there is a problem with the RF signal that is sent between the chip and the computer in your car’s system. Another possibility is that the bottom metal part of the key is worn or dull, which can cause interference with the signal from the radio.
If this is the situation, try another key and check if it works. Look for any obstruction nearby that could block the signal. If you’re still experiencing issues 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 tell you precisely what’s causing the transponder key to malfunction and the best way to fix it. In most cases your locksmith will be in a position to reprogram your key and enable it to function again in your vehicle.
3. The lock on your car is blocked
A blocked or jammed locking mechanism is the reason of many car door lockouts. Over time, dirt and rust can build up within your lock, causing it to become jammed. This can make it difficult, if not impossible, to open the car door lockout‘s door and can also block your key fob from unlocking the door when you press its button.
If you are in this situation you might need to lubricate your lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyst to free it. These products can be purchased at home improvement centers or auto supply shops. You can apply them to the lock with flatheads or another thin object you can stick in your keyhole to open the mechanism. If you can’t insert the key or key fob and grease the lock using this method, try wriggling it back and forth using needle-nosed pliers.
A damaged link between the lock cylinder or the interior locking switch/post and car latch is another frequent reason why locks on vehicles fail. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather or due to the continuous use of the lock, and could result in you being in a position to not open the door of your vehicle and access your belongings.
To avoid this to avoid this issue, keep a spare car key in a secure place and replace the battery of your key fob on a regular basis to prolong its life. Some automakers offer download apps that you can use to remotely unlock car door without key your car if it’s locked. Be sure to check with your manufacturer to see if they have one available.
4. Your Car’s Key Fob Has Died
Car unlockers key fobs use batteries to operate and sometimes, they run out of juice. Luckily, you can often solve this issue by replacing the batteries. If your car key fob isn’t functioning at all It could indicate that something else is wrong. If you are experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your car to find out what other steps you could take.
If your car key fob doesn’t work and you don’t have a spare, think about hiring a locksmith to assist you in getting into your vehicle. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockouts and are in a position to help you gain access to your vehicle without paying a tow service or other recovery services.
You could also try using a physical key to open your car door. Most newer vehicles have a key slot hidden on the driver’s side of the door, which is typically located behind the handle cover. Make use of the mechanical key to open the door, and the fob to start the vehicle (if required). Certain manufacturers have an automatic backup system in their vehicles that allows you to start your vehicle with dead fob.
Getting locked out of your vehicle is never a pleasant experience, and it can be particularly frustrating when it happens in a strange area. Keep your spare car keys at home or with trusted family members and change the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. In addition, you could try to increase your ability to find your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be connected to an app on your smartphone, which can be very useful in finding your keys when they get lost or misplaced.
5. Your Car’s Lock has Accumulated Dirt
Over time over time, grime, dirt, and other particles can build up in the locks of your car and cause them to jam and prevent you from opening your door. To prevent this from happening it is crucial to keep your locks lubricated and hinges at least twice a year with either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
A spare key is another method to avoid a lockout. You can do this by carrying an extra key in your wallet or purse, leaving one with a family or friend member or by giving one to your valet if you reside in an apartment. You should also keep the contact information of your local locksmith on hand. This will save you time and stress if you ever have to be locked car keys in car out of the vehicle.
Many automakers also provide roadside assistance services that can assist drivers in regaining access to their vehicles during an incident of lockout. 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 issue.
If you’re looking for a trustworthy and reliable towing service, contact Richman automotive lockouts & Towing today!
It’s never a good thing to find yourself in a car lockout situation. There are plenty of quick solutions to this problem. It is also beneficial to have a spare car key and know who to call if you need assistance. To learn more, please visit us on the internet today. We’re here to answer any questions you might have. We are looking forward to working with you! You can also call us at (301) 7777-1877.