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

Anyone can experience the stress of a vehicle lockout. To prevent this from happening, keep a spare car key in a safe location.

This article explores some common causes of car lockouts and offers some simple DIY solutions, such as using an altered wire coat hanger to open the door of your car.

1. You've Forgotten Your Keys

You're about run errands and you forgot your keys in the ignition or on the seat. Then, before you know it your door locks automatically and you're trapped outside. This is among the most frequent causes for vehicle lock outs, and a good reason to always keep a spare key somewhere safe.

It could appear like a complete failure, but don't be worried. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers offer locksmith services, and are trained to unlock almost every vehicle quickly. They can also help determine what to do when locked out of car went wrong with the lock on your car so that you can prevent it from happening again in the future.

Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag while you travel. You're less likely to lose your keys when you take this precaution. You can also look for them in common places, but don't try to hide them. Thieves are clever and may have considered all the typical places to hide.

Based on the car's manufacturer depending on the manufacturer of your car, you could have the option to use an app which turns your smartphone into a key fob. This is especially useful when you've lost your keys or have left them in the car, and it's available for the majority of modern vehicles. Visit the website of your automaker to see if it has an app, and how to open a car door without Key to install it. Also, you should contact your insurance provider to determine whether you're covered in the event that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance typically covers these kinds of situations. However the exact details and coverage amounts could 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 help of a professional locksmith, this issue can be resolved quickly and without a lot of hassle.

Transponder keys have become a standard feature in most cars because they offer increased security and functionality. However, like any other electronic device, they can suffer from failures and problems occasionally. As such, it's important to know the signs that your transponder key is failing so you can have it serviced right away.

If your transponder keys cease to work in the lock of your car, 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 glitch between the RF signal sent by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is that the metal on the bottom part of the key is worn down or dull, which could cause interference with the RF signal.

If this is the case, try using a different key to see if that works. Examine if there's anything nearby that could be blocking the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, call an expert locksmith who specializes in transponder keys for vehicles. They'll test it and possibly repair it. They'll be able to inform you precisely what's causing the transponder key to malfunction and the best way to fix it. In the majority of 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

Many car unlocking service lockouts on doors can be attributed to a blocked or jammed lock the key in the car mechanism. Over time, dirt and rust can accumulate within your lock, causing it to jam. This can make it difficult, or even impossible to open your car's door and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door after you press its button.

If you are in this situation, you may need to lubricate your lock using a penetrating catalyst or WD-40 in order to unjam it. These products can be purchased at home improvement centers or at auto supply stores. You can apply them to the lock with flatheads or another thin object that you can stick in your keyhole to access the mechanism. If you are unable insert the key or the 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 for vehicle lockouts is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder, or the interior locking post/switch, and the car door latch. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or due to the continuous use of the lock. This could cause you to be incapable of opening your car's door and gain access to your belongings.

To avoid this problem, you can keep a spare car key in a safe location and change the battery on your key fob regularly to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers even offer downloadable apps that can be used to remotely unlock your car when it's locked, so be sure to contact the manufacturer to determine whether they offer one.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs use batteries to function and, sometimes they run out of juice. This issue can be resolved by simply changing the batteries. If, however, your car key fob isn't working at all it could be a sign that something else is wrong. If you're having this issue, check the manual for your car to see what other steps you can take.

If you've lost your car keys and don't have an extra, you can call locksmiths for help. Many of these services provide emergency lockouts, and could be able help you gain entry to your vehicle without paying for towing or other recovery services.

You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock your car. The driver's door of most modern cars has a concealed slot for keys. It's usually located in the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and use the fob to press the start button (if necessary). Certain manufacturers have built-in backup systems that allow you to start your car using a dead key.

Being locked out of your car is never a pleasant experience and can be especially frustrating when it occurs in a foreign location. Keep a spare car key at home or with trusted family members, and replace the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. In addition, you can attempt to improve the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a distinct signature that can be connected to an app on your smartphone, which can be very helpful in locating your keys when they are lost or are not found.

5. The lock of your car has been accumulating dirt

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

Another way to prevent the possibility of a vehicle lock being lost is to always keep a spare key on hand. You can do this in a few ways. You can carry an extra key in your wallet or purse. Or, you could leave it with an individual from your family or a friend. Or, you can give the set to the valet of your apartment if it's an apartment complex. Additionally to that, keep the number of your locksmith handy. This will help you save time and stress if you ever have to be locked out of the vehicle.

Many automakers provide roadside assistance that can help motorists gain access to their vehicle in a lockout scenario. 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 service to resolve the problem.

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

It is not a good idea to be in a situation where you are locked car keys in car out of your vehicle. Fortunately, there are many quick solutions to this issue. It is also helpful to have a spare car key and know who to contact if you need help. Visit us online to find out more. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward to working with you. You can also give us the number (301) 777-1877.