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 prevent this from happening, always have a spare key and keep it in a safe location.

This article outlines some of the common causes of car lockouts and offers some simple DIY techniques, like using a modified wire coat hanger to unlock car keys inside your car's door.

1. You've Lost Your Keys

You're running errands, and you have forgotten your keys in the ignition or on the seat. In no time, your door locks automatically and you're trapped outside. This is among the most common reasons for vehicle lock outs and is a good reason to keep a spare key somewhere safe.

Don't be worried. It may seem like you've failed, however it isn't. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers provide locksmith services and are trained to unlock almost any car quickly. They can also help figure out what went wrong with your car's lock, so you can stop it from repeating itself in the future.

Keep your keys in your backpack, purse, or bag when you travel. This way you're less likely lose your keys in a hurry. You can also search for them in the usual places, but don't attempt to hide them--thieves are smart and might have thought of all the usual places to hide.

You could be able use an application that can turn your smartphone in an electronic key fob, based on the car manufacturer. This is a great solution for those who have lost their keys, or if they are still in the car. It's a feature that is available on all modern vehicles. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to find out if they've got an application and how to open a locked car (his comment is here) to set it up. It is also advisable to 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 generally will cover these scenarios. However the specific details and coverage amounts could differ.

2. Your Transponder Keys Have Failed

When it comes to modern automobiles there's nothing more frustrating than being locked out of your vehicle. Luckily with the help of a professional locksmith, this problem can be resolved quickly and without much hassle.

Transponder keys are now a common feature in all cars, as they offer greater security and functionality. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys may have issues and malfunctions from time to the time. It is therefore important to know the signs that your transponder key is not working to be able to get it fixed immediately.

The most typical sign that your transponder key is failing is if it stops working in your car's lock. This could be due to various reasons. It could be because 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 computer in the car. Another possibility is that the metal on the bottom part of the key is worn out or dull, which could hinder the signal from the radio.

If this is the case, try a different key and check if it works. Also, make sure that there isn't an object in the vicinity that blocks the signal. Finally, if you're still experiencing issues with your key, you could always contact a locksmith who is specialized in transponder keys for vehicles to test it and possibly repaired. They can identify the issue that caused your transponder to fail and the best way to fix the problem. In most cases locksmiths are in a position to reprogram your key to ensure it can work in your car again.

3. Your car's lock is jammed

A jammed or blocked locking mechanism is the root of many car door lockouts. Over time dirt, rust and other impurities may build in your lock keys in car and cause it to become jammed. This could make it difficult, or even impossible to open the door of your car and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door after you press its button.

If you are in this situation you might need to lubricate your lock using a penetrating catalyst or WD-40 to loosen it. These products can be found at auto supply shops or home improvement stores. They can be applied to the lock with a flathead screwdriver, or any other thin object that you could insert into the keyhole to reach the mechanism behind it. 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 common cause of vehicle lockouts is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder, or the interior locking switch/post/switch and the door latch of the car. This can be caused by extreme weather or by the constant use of the lock and could cause you to be incapable of opening the door of your vehicle and access your belongings.

To avoid this problem To avoid this, keep the spare car key in a secure location and replace the battery of your key fob on a regular basis to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers offer download applications that allow you to remotely unlock your car if you're locked out, so be sure to inquire with your manufacturer to find out whether they have a solution available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries charge car key fobs, and they can run out of power. Luckily, you can often solve this problem by simply replacing the batteries. If your car's key fob isn't working in any way, it could indicate that something else is not working. Consult the manual of your car in case you're experiencing this issue.

If your car's key fob doesn't work, and you don't have a spare, you should consider getting a locksmith on call to help you get into your vehicle. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockout services and could be able to help gain access to your vehicle without having to pay for a tow or other recovery services.

You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock your car key lockout service. The driver's side door of many newer cars has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually hidden under the handle cover. Make use of the mechanical key for opening the door, and then the fob to start the vehicle (if needed). Some manufacturers have a backup system built into their vehicles that allows you to start your vehicle with dead fob.

It's not fun to be i locked my car keys in my car out of your car particularly when it happens in a secluded location. Keep an extra car key at home or with trusted friends, and replace the battery of your key fob regularly. You can also increase the possibility of locating your keys by investing an Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a distinctive signature that can be linked to an app on your smartphone and can be extremely useful in locating your keys when they are lost or have been misplaced.

5. Your car's lock has accumulated dirt

Over time, dirt, grime, and other debris can accumulate in the locks of your car which can cause them to become jammed and prevent you from opening your door. To avoid this it is crucial to lubricate your locks and hinges at a minimum of twice every year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is another way to avoid a vehicle lockout. You can do this by keeping the spare key in your wallet or purse or leaving it with a friend or family member, or donating a set to your valet if live in an apartment building. It is also advisable to have the contact number of the locksmith in your area. This will save you a lot of stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your car.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services that can help drivers regain access to their vehicles during an emergency lockout. This includes GM’s OnStar service, which has been in operation for a long time, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. However, if none of these options are available, call a local towing company to solve the problem.

Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing company to call to get a reliable and professional service.

It's never a great thing to be caught in a car lockout situation. There are plenty of quick solutions to this problem. Keep a spare key on hand and knowing who to call to get help is always helpful and also. Visit us online to learn more. We'll be glad to answer all of your questions. We look forward to working with you! We can be reached at (301) 7777-1877.