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

A vehicle lockout is a stressful experience that can occur to anyone. To prevent this from happening ensure you keep a spare car key in a secure place.

This article outlines some of the common causes of car lockouts and suggests some easy DIY methods, such as using a modified wire coat hanger to open the door of your car.

1. You forgot your keys

It's a nightmare scenario for every car owner: you're about to run errands, and you leave your keys on the seat or in the ignition. Then you're locked outside because your door locks itself. This is the most frequent reason behind vehicle lockouts. It's a good idea to keep a spare car key in a safe place.

It may seem like a complete failure, but don't worry. Most roadside assistance as well as auto wreckers offer locksmith services, and are trained to unlock car door service almost any vehicle swiftly. They can also help you determine what went wrong with the car's lock to prevent repeating the same issue in the future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag whenever you drive. This way, you're less likely to forget your keys in a hurry. You can also look for them in the usual locations, but don't try to conceal them. Thieves know how to be clever and may have already come up with the most common hiding places.

You might be able to use an application that can turn your smartphone in the role of a key fob, based on the car's manufacturer. This is a great solution for those who have lost their keys, or if they are still in the car unlock services. It's accessible on many modern cars. Check the website of your automaker to see if it has an application, and then how to install it. Check with your insurance provider to determine if you're covered when you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance generally covers these kinds of situations. However the exact details and coverage amounts could 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. Luckily with the assistance of a professional locksmith, this problem can be solved quickly and without much hassle.

Transponder keys are now standard in most automobiles because they offer greater security and efficiency. Like any electronic device, transponder keys can have problems and malfunctions from time to time. Therefore, it's crucial to understand what signs your transponder key is not working to ensure that it is repaired immediately.

If your transponder keys stop working in the lock of your car it is a typical indication. It could be due to various reasons. It could be that the microchip in the key has stopped functioning or there's a problem with the RF signal that is sent by the chip to the car's computer. Another possibility is that the bottom part of the key is worn or dull, which may cause interference with the signal from the radio.

If this is the scenario, try using a different key to see if it works in your car's lock. Examine if there's something in the vicinity that could hinder the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, call a locksmith who is specialized in transponder keys for vehicles to have it checked and possibly repaired. They'll be able to tell you precisely what's causing your transponder key to fail and the best way to fix it. In the majority of instances locksmiths are able reprogram your key to make it work again in your vehicle.

3. Your Car's Lock has been jammed

Many car lockouts at the door can be traced to a blocked or jammed lock mechanism. Over time, rust and dirt build up inside your lock, causing it to jam. 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 after you press the button.

If you are in this position you might need to lubricate your lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyst in order to unjam it. These products can be bought at home improvement stores or at auto supply stores. You can apply them to the lock using flatheads or any other thin object that you can stick into your keyhole to gain access to the mechanism. If you cannot insert the key or key fob into the lock and lubricate it this way, try wiggling the mechanism back and forth using needle-nose pliers until it feels free.

Another reason that causes vehicle lockout is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder or interior locking post/switch and the door latch for your car. Extreme weather conditions or continuous use of the lock can cause this. You will then be unable to open your car door and gain access to your belongings.

To avoid this To avoid this, 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 applications that allow you to remotely unlock door car your car if it's locked. Be sure to check with your manufacturer to find out whether they offer one.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries charge car key fobs, and they are prone to running out of power. Luckily, you can often solve this problem by simply replacing the batteries. If, however, your car key fob isn't functioning at all, it could indicate that something else is not working properly. Check the manual for your vehicle when you're experiencing this issue.

If your car key fob isn't working 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 may be in a position to help you gain access to your vehicle lock out service without the need to pay an additional tow fee or recovery services.

You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock your vehicle. The driver's door on most newer cars has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually located behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and use the fob to push the start button (if necessary). Certain manufacturers have a backup system built into their cars that allow you to start your car using dead fob.

It's not fun to be locked out of your car particularly when it happens in a secluded area. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key safe at home or with a trusted friend, and to replace the battery on your key fob frequently. Additionally, you can try to improve your ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit an unique signature which you can connect to a mobile application. This can be extremely useful in locating your keys if they've been lost or have been misplaced.

5. The lock on your car has accumulated dirt

Over time dirt, grime and other particles can build up within the locks of your car and cause them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To avoid this, it is important to lubricate your locks and hinges at a minimum of twice each year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is a good method to avoid a lockout. You can do this in a variety of ways. You can keep an extra key in your purse or wallet. Or, you can leave one with a family member or friend. You could also offer a set to the valet of your apartment building if it is an apartment complex. You should also have the contact number of your local locksmith on hand. This will help you avoid much stress and money in the event that you get locked out of your car.

Many automakers also provide roadside assistance services to help drivers regain access to their vehicles in a lockout situation. This includes GM's enduring OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service, and Hyundai Blue Link. However, if none of these options are available, contact a local towing company to resolve the problem.

Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing service you need for dependable and professional service.

It's never a good thing to be caught in a car lockout situation. There are several quick solutions to this issue. It is also beneficial to have a spare car key, and know who to contact if you need assistance. To learn more, please visit us on the internet today. We are happy to answer any questions you might have. We look forward to working with you! We can be reached at (301) 7777-1877.