Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
Locking out your vehicle can be a stressful and frightening experience that can occur to anyone. To prevent this from happening, always have a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe location.
This article explores some common causes of car lockout and offers some simple DIY methods, such as using an altered wire coat hanger to unlock the door of your car.
1. You've lost your keys
You're running errands, and you forget 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 the most common reason behind vehicle lockouts. It's an excellent idea to keep the spare car key in a secure place.
Don't be worried. It might seem like you've failed, however it's not. Most roadside assistance and auto wreckers offer locksmith services, and are trained to unlock nearly any car quickly. They can also help you determine the cause of the problem with the lock on your vehicle to prevent it from happening again in the future.
Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag while you drive. You're less likely to lose your keys when you use this method. You can also look for them in the usual locations, but don't attempt to hide them. Thieves are able to be clever and might have already come up with the most common hiding places.
You may be able to use an application that turns your smartphone into a key fob, depending on the manufacturer of your car. This is particularly useful if you've lost your keys or put them in your vehicle, and it's available for the majority of modern vehicles. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to see if they have an application and how to set it up. Contact your insurance company to see if you are covered if you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually will cover these scenarios. However the specific details and coverage amounts could vary.
2. Your transponder keys have failed
When it comes to modern vehicles, there are few things more frustrating than being locked out of your car. With the assistance of a professional, this issue can be solved quickly and without a lot of hassle.
Transponder keys have become a standard feature in most automobiles due to their increased security and efficiency. Like any electronic device transponder keys may have issues and malfunctions from time to time. It is therefore important to know the signs that your transponder key is not working to ensure that it is fixed immediately.
If your transponder keys cease to work in the lock of your car, this is a common sign. It could be due to a variety of factors. It could be because the microchip inside the key has stopped functioning or there is a glitch with the RF signal that is sent by the chip to the car's computer. Another possibility is that the bottom metal part of the key is worn down or dull, which could cause interference with the RF signal.
If this is the situation, try another key to determine whether it works in your car's lock. unlocking car door service if there's something in the vicinity that could hinder the signal. If you're still experiencing issues with your key, contact an expert locksmith who specializes in vehicle-transponder keys. They'll be able to test the key and repair it. They'll be able tell the exact reason for your transponder keys to fail and the best way to fix it. In the majority of instances, your locksmith will be capable of reprogramming your key to enable it to function again in your vehicle.
3. Your Car's Lock has been jammed
A jammed or blocked locking mechanism is the cause of many car door lockouts. Over time, dirt and rust can build up inside the lock, which causes it to block. This could make it difficult or even impossible to open the car's door and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door when you press its button.
You may need to lubricate the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser to unjam. These are available at auto supply shops or home improvement centers. You can apply them to the lock with flatheads or any other thin object that you can put in your keyhole to access the mechanism. If you are unable to insert the key fob or key key and apply lubrication to the lock using this method, try wriggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.
Another reason that causes car lockouts is a damaged link between the door handle, lock cylinder, or interior locking post/switch and the car door latch. Extreme weather conditions or constant use of the lock could cause this. Then, you will be unable to open your car door and gain access to your belongings.
One way to avoid this problem is to always keep a spare key somewhere secure and to replace your key fob battery frequently to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers even offer downloadable apps that you can use to remotely unlock your car when you're locked out, so be sure to inquire with the manufacturer to determine whether they have a solution available.
4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died
Batteries are used to charge car key fobs, and can be depleted of power. This issue can be resolved by changing the batteries. However, if your car key fob isn't working at all it could be a sign that something else is not working properly. Consult the manual of your vehicle if you're experiencing this problem.
If your car's key fob doesn't work and you don't have a spare, you should consider calling a locksmith to assist you in getting into your vehicle. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockouts and may be capable of helping you gain access to your vehicle without having to pay a tow service or other recovery services.
You could also try using a key to open your car door. The driver's side door of many newer vehicles has a hidden slot for keys. It is usually in the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and then the fob to start the vehicle (if required). Certain manufacturers have built-in backup systems that let you start your car with a dead key.
It's not fun to be locked out of your car, especially when it happens in a remote area. Keep an extra car key at home or with trusted family members and change the battery on your key fob on a regular basis. In addition, you could attempt to improve your ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a distinct signature that can be connected to an app on your phone that can be useful in finding your keys when they are lost or misplaced.
5. Your Car's Lock has Accumulated Dirt
Over time, dirt, grime, and other debris can accumulate in the locks of your car and cause them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To prevent this from happening, it is important to keep your locks lubricated and hinges at least twice a year with either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
A spare key is a good option to avoid a car lockout. You can do this by putting an extra key in your wallet or purse, leaving one with a family or friend member or giving a set to your valet if you reside in an apartment. In addition, you should also keep the contact number of your locksmith on hand. This will help you avoid lots of stress and money in the event you get locked out of your vehicle.
Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services to help drivers regain access to their vehicles in an emergency lockout. This includes GM's OnStar service, which has been available for years, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. However, if none of these options are available, contact a local towing service to resolve the issue.
Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing service you need to get a reliable and professional service.
You should never be in the situation of being locked out of your vehicle. There are plenty of quick solutions to this issue. It is also helpful to have a spare car key, and know who to contact if you need assistance. For more information, visit us online today. We are happy to answer any of your questions. We are looking forward to working with you! You can also call us at (301) 7777-1877.