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

Vehicle lock out can be a stressful and frightening 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 examines the most common causes of car lockouts, and provides simple DIY solutions, including using an altered coat hanger to open the doors of your car.

1. You've lost your keys

It's a nightmare for every car owner: you're about to make errands, but you forget your keys on the seat or in the ignition. Then, before you know it your door locks automatically and you're locked outside. This is one of the most common reasons for vehicle lockouts and is a good reason to keep a spare key safe.

Don't get stressed. It may seem like you've failed, but it's not. The majority of roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers provide locksmith services for vehicles and they're trained to unlock almost any car quickly. They can also help you determine what went wrong with your car's lock, so you can stop it from occurring again in the future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack, or bag when you travel. You're less likely to lose the keys when you use this method. You can also search for them in common places, but don't try to hide them. Thieves are clever and might have thought of all the usual hiding spots.

You could be able use an application that can turn your smartphone in a key fob, depending on the car manufacturer. This is a great option for those who have lost their keys, or are still in the car. It's available on most modern cars. Check your automaker's website to find out if they've got an application and how to configure it. You should also check with your insurance company to determine whether you're covered in event that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance typically will cover these scenarios, but the exact terms and amount of coverage could differ.

2. Your Transponder Keys Are Not Working

When it comes to modern automobiles there's nothing more frustrating than getting locked out of your vehicle. With the assistance of a professional, this problem can be solved quickly and without too much hassle.

Transponder keys are now a common feature in all cars, as they offer greater security and efficiency. But, just like any other electronic device, they are prone to suffer from failures and problems occasionally. It's important to know the signs that your transponder's failing, so you can be sure to have it fixed immediately.

If your transponder keys stop working in the lock of your car it is a typical sign. It could be due to many reasons. It could be that the microchip inside the key is not functioning properly or there's a problem 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 out or dull, which may cause interference with the RF signal.

If this is the case Try using a different key to see if that works. Check to see if there's something in the vicinity that could be blocking the signal. Finally, if you're still having trouble with your key, you could call a locksmith who specializes in vehicle transponder keys to test it and possibly repaired. They can tell you what's causing the transponder to malfunction and the best way to fix the problem. In most cases locksmiths are capable of reprogramming the key so that it works in your car again.

3. The lock on your car is blocked

Many car lockouts at the door can be traced to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time, rust and dirt build up within your lock, which causes it to block. This could make it difficult, if not impossible, to open the door of your car and can also block your key fob from unlocking the door after you press its button.

You may need to grease the lock the key in the car with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser to unjam. These products can be bought at home improvement centers or auto supply shops. They can be put on the lock using a flathead screwdriver, or any other small object that you can insert into the keyhole to access the mechanism behind it. If you are unable to insert the key or key fob and lubricate the lock this way, try wiggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.

A broken link between the lock's cylinder or the post or interior locking switch and car latch is a common reason for locking your vehicle out. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather conditions or due to the continuous use of the lock, and could cause you to be unable to open your car's door and gain access to your belongings.

One method to avoid this problem is to always keep a spare key secure and to replace the battery of your key fob regularly to make sure it lasts longer. Some automakers also offer download apps that can be used to remotely unlock your car when it's locked, so be sure to check with your manufacturer to see if they have one available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries charge car key fobs, and can be depleted of power. Luckily, you can often solve this issue by replacing the batteries. If your car key fob doesn't function at all, it could be an indication that something else is not working. If you're experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your vehicle to determine what other steps you could take.

If your car key fob doesn't work, and you don't have a spare, you should consider hiring a locksmith to help you get into your vehicle. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockouts and may be in a position to help you gain access to your vehicle without having to pay an additional tow fee or recovery services.

You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock your vehicle. The majority of newer cars come with a key slot hidden on the driver's side of the door, which is typically found behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door and use the fob to press the start button (if required). Some manufacturers have a backup system built into their vehicles that allows you to start your car using dead fob.

Getting locked out of your car is never enjoyable but it is especially stressful when it happens in an unfamiliar location. The best way to avoid this from happening is to keep a spare key safe at home, or with a trusted person, and to replace the battery on your key fob frequently. Additionally, you can try to improve the ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be connected to an app on your phone and can be extremely helpful in locating your keys if they are lost or have been misplaced.

5. Your Car's Lock Has Contained Dirt

Over time, grime and dirt can accumulate within the lock of your car. This could cause it to become blocked and stop you from opening the door. To prevent this from happening it is recommended that you lubricate the locks and hinges of your vehicle at least once a year with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is an additional option to avoid a car lockout. You can do this by keeping the spare key in your purse or wallet or leaving it with a family member or by giving one to your valet, if you live in an apartment. Additionally you should keep the number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will save you a lot of stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your vehicle.

Many automakers also provide roadside assistance to help drivers regain access to their vehicles following an incident of lockout. This includes GM's enduring OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options is available, contact a towing company in your area to fix the issue.

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

It's never a great thing to be caught locked out of your car. There are plenty of quick solutions for this problem. It is also helpful to have a spare car key, and know who to call if you need help. To learn more, please visit us on the internet today. We'll be happy to answer all of your questions. We are looking forward to working with you! You can also call us at (301) 777-1877.