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

A vehicle lockout can be a stressful and frightening experience that can occur to anyone. To avoid this ensure you keep a spare car key in a safe location.

This article explores some common causes of car lockouts and offers some simple DIY methods, such as using a modified coat hanger made of wire to unlock the door unlock service of your car.

1. You Forgot Your Keys

You're running errands, and you have forgotten your keys in the ignition or on the seat. Then, before you know it your door locks automatically, and you're locked outside. This is among the most common reasons for lockouts in vehicles and is a great reason to always keep a spare key secure.

Don't be worried. It may seem like you've failed, but it's not. Most roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers offer locksmith services for vehicles and they're trained to open almost any vehicle swiftly. They can also help you determine the cause of the problem with the lock on your vehicle to ensure that you don't risk it from happening again in the future.

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

You could be able make use of an app that transforms your smartphone into an electronic key fob, based on the manufacturer of your car. This is a great option if you have lost your keys, or are still in the car. It's available on most modern cars. Visit the website of your car maker to see if it has an app, and how to get a key out of a locked car to install it. It is also advisable to check with your insurance company to find out whether you're covered in the case that you lock your keys in the car. Roadside assistance usually is covered in these instances, however the exact terms and coverage amount could differ.

2. Your Transponder Keys Are Not Working

When it comes to modern automobiles there aren't many things more frustrating than being locked myself out of car out of your vehicle. With the assistance of a professional, this problem can be resolved quickly, and without too much hassle.

Transponder keys are now a standard feature in most automobiles due to their increased security and functionality. However, as with any electronic device, they can be prone to failures and issues at times. It's important to know the indicators that your transponder is not functioning properly to ensure that you have it repaired immediately.

The most frequent sign that your transponder key isn't working is when it stops working in your car's lock. This could be due to a number of reasons. For instance, it could be due to the microchip in the key has stopped working or due to a problem with the RF signal that is transmitted between the chip and your car's computer system. Another possibility is that the bottom part of the key cut near me open now is worn down or dull, which can cause interference with the signal from the radio.

If this is the case, try using a different key to see whether it will work in your car's lock. You should also ensure that there isn't an object in the vicinity that blocks the signal. Finally, if you're still having trouble with your key, you could call a locksmith who specialises in transponder keys for vehicles to have it tested and possibly repaired. They will be able tell you what's causing the transponder to malfunction and How to open Locked car to fix the problem. In most instances your locksmith will be in a position to reprogram your key and make it work again in your vehicle.

3. The lock on your car is blocked

Many car lockouts on doors can be attributed to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time dirt, rust and other impurities can build in the lock, causing it to block. This can make it extremely difficult to open your car door. It may also prevent you from using your key fob to unlock the door.

If you find yourself in this situation, you may need to lubricate your lock using a penetrating catalyst or WD-40 to free it. These are available in auto supply stores or home improvement stores. They can be sprayed on the lock using a flathead screwdriver or other thin object that you can put into the keyhole to access the mechanism behind it. If you can't insert the key or key fob and apply lubrication to the lock this way, try wiggling it back and forth using 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 door latch of the car. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or by the constant use of the lock and can result in your being unable to open the door of your vehicle and access your belongings.

One method to avoid this issue is to always keep a spare key safe and to replace your key fob battery frequently to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers even offer downloadable applications that allow you to remotely unlock your car if it's locked, so be sure to inquire with your manufacturer to see if they have one available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs require batteries to function and, sometimes they run out of juice. This issue can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries. If your car key fob isn't functioning at all, it could be a sign something else is not working properly. If you are experiencing this issue, you should consult the manual for your vehicle to determine what other steps you can take.

If you have lost your car keys and don't own a spare contact a locksmith for help. A lot of locksmiths offer emergency lockout assistance and may be able to help you gain access to your vehicle without the need to pay for a tow or another recovery services.

You can also use a physical key to unlock your vehicle. Most newer vehicles have a key slot hidden on the driver's side of the door, which is typically located behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key for opening the door, and then the fob to start the vehicle (if needed). Some manufacturers have backup systems in place that allow you to start your car using dead keys.

It's never fun being locked out of your car and especially when it happens in a remote location. Keep an extra car key at your home or with trusted acquaintances and replace the battery of your key fob on a regular basis. In addition, you could try to improve the ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a distinctive signature that you can connect to an app on your phone that can be helpful in locating your keys when they get lost or have been misplaced.

5. Your car's lock has accumulated dirt

Over time over time, grime, dirt, and other debris can accumulate within the locks of your car which can cause them to become jammed and block the ability to open your door. To avoid this, it is important to grease your locks and hinges at a minimum of twice every year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is an additional way to avoid a vehicle lockout. You can do this in a few ways. You can keep a spare in your purse or wallet. Or, you could leave it 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. Additionally you should keep the contact number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will spare you a lot of stress and money in the event you get locked out of your vehicle.

Many automakers provide roadside assistance to help users gain access to their car in the event of a lockout. This includes GM’s OnStar service, which has been in operation for a long time, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. If none of these options is available, contact a towing company in your area to resolve the issue.

If you're in search of a reliable and professional towing service, call Richman Automotive & Towing today!

It is not a good idea to be in a situation where you are locked out of your vehicle. There are many quick solutions to this issue. It is also beneficial to have an extra car key and know who to call if you need help. Visit us online to find out more. We'll be happy to answer all of your questions. We are looking forward to working with you! We are also available to give us a the number (301) 7777-1877.