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

Vehicle lock out is a stressful event that can happen to anyone. To avoid this ensure you keep a spare car key in a safe place.

This article outlines some of the common causes of car lockouts and provides 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 any car owner: you're about run errands, and you leave your keys on the seat or in the ignition. In no time, your door locks automatically and you're locked outside. This is the most frequent reason behind vehicle lockouts. It's a good idea to keep an extra car key in a safe location.

It may appear like a complete failure, but don't panic. The majority of roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers offer locksmith services for vehicles, and they're trained to unlock nearly any car quickly. They can also assist you to determine what went wrong with your car's lock, so you can avoid it happening again in the future.

Another method to avoid having your vehicle lock out is by keeping your keys in a backpack, purse or bag that accompanies you on all drives. That way, you're less likely to lose them in an instant. You can also look for them in common spots, but do not try to conceal them. Thieves know How To get locked keys out of a car to be clever and might have already thought of the most commonly used hiding spots.

You could be able use an application that can turn your smartphone in the role of a key fob, based on the manufacturer of your car. This is a great solution for those who have lost their keys, or are still in the car. It's accessible on many modern vehicles. Check the website of your car maker to determine if they have an application, and then how to install it. Contact your insurance company to see if you are covered in the event that you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance usually covers these situations, though the exact terms and amount of coverage may vary.

2. Your transponder keys have failed

There aren't many things more than a hassle in modern automobiles than being locked out. With the assistance of a professional, this issue can be solved quickly and without a lot of hassle.

Transponder keys have become an integral part of many automobiles due to their increased security and function. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys may have issues and malfunction from time to time. As such, it's important to know the signs that your transponder key is not working so you can have it serviced right away.

If your transponder keys stop working in the car lock, this is a common indication. It could be due to many different reasons. For example, it may be due to the microchip in the key has stopped working, or due to an issue with the radio signal that is sent between the chip and the computer in your car's system. Another possibility is that the metal at the bottom of the key is worn or dull. This could cause interference with the signal.

If this is the situation, try an alternative key to see whether it will work inside the lock of your car. Look for any obstruction nearby that could block the signal. If you still have problems with your key, contact a locksmith that specializes in keys for vehicles. They can test it and perhaps fix it. They'll be able tell the exact reason for your transponder key to fail and how to fix it. In the majority of cases, your locksmith will be able reprogram your key to make it work again in your vehicle.

3. Your Car's Lock is Jammed

Many car lockouts on doors can be attributed to a blocked or jammed lock mechanism. Over time, dirt, rust, and other impurities could build up inside your lock and cause it to become jammed. This can make it difficult to open the car door. It can also hinder you from using your key fob to open the door.

If you find yourself in this position it is possible to lubricate your lock with penetrating catalysts or WD-40 in order to unjam it. These items can be found at home improvement centers or auto supply shops. You can attach them to the lock with a flathead or other thin object that you can put into your keyhole to gain access to the mechanism. If you can't insert the key or key fob to grease the lock by wriggling it back and forth using needle-nosed pliers.

A damaged link between the lock cylinder the post or interior locking switch and car latch is another frequent reason why locks on vehicles fail. This can be caused by extreme weather or due to the continuous use of the lock and can result in your being incapable of opening the door of your vehicle and gain access to your belongings.

To avoid this to avoid this issue, keep an extra car key in a secure place and replace the battery of your key fob on a regular basis to make it last longer. Some automakers offer apps that can be downloaded to unlock your car remotely when it is locked. Contact your automaker to determine if such an app is available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries are used to charge car key fobs, and they can run out of power. Luckily, you can solve this issue by replacing the batteries. If your car's key fob isn't working at all, this could indicate something else is wrong. 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, think about calling a locksmith to assist you with accessing your vehicle. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockouts and may be capable of helping you gain access to your vehicle unlock service without paying for towing or other recovery services.

You could also try using a key to open the door of your car. Most newer vehicles have a hidden key slot on the driver's side of the door, which is usually located behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door. You can also use the fob to push the start button (if it is required). Some manufacturers have an emergency system built into their car that allows you to start your vehicle with a dead fob.

Being locked out of your car is never enjoyable but it is especially stressful when it happens in an unfamiliar location. Keep an extra car key at home or with trusted family members and change the battery on your key fob regularly. You can also try to improve the ability to locate your keys by investing a Bluetooth tracker. They emit a unique signature that you can connect to a smartphone app. This can be extremely useful in locating your keys in case they get lost or misplaced.

5. Your Car's Lock has Ample Dirt

Over time, grime and dirt can accumulate within the lock of your car, which could cause it to get jammed and prevent you from opening the door. To avoid this, you should grease the hinges and locks of your car at least once a year using WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is an additional way to avoid a vehicle lockout. You can do this in a variety of ways. You can keep a spare in your wallet or purse. You can also leave one with someone in your family or with a friend. You could also give a set to the valet at your apartment building if it's an apartment complex. You should also have the number of the locksmith in your area. This will save you much stress and money in the event you are locked out of your car.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services to help drivers regain access to their vehicles during an emergency lockout. This includes GM's long-standing 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.

If you're looking for a trustworthy and reliable towing company, contact Richman Automotive & Towing today!

It's never a good idea to be caught locked out of your car. There are a variety of quick solutions to this problem. It is also beneficial to have an extra car key and know who to call if you need help. Visit us online to learn more. We're here to answer any questions you may have. We are looking forward to working with you! You can also contact us at (301) 7777-1877.