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

A vehicle lockout can be a stressful and frightening experience that can happen to anyone. To prevent this from happening make sure you keep a spare key in a safe place.

This article examines the most common causes of car lockout and suggests some easy DIY techniques, like using a modified wire coat hanger to open the door of your car.

1. You Forgot Your Keys

It's a nightmare for every car owner: you're about make errands, but you leave keys on the seat or in the ignition. You're suddenly stuck outside when your door locks itself. This is among the most common reasons for vehicle lock outs, and a good reason to always keep a spare key safe.

It may appear like a complete failure, but don't panic. Most 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 determine what went wrong with your car's lock so you can stop it from happening again in the future.

Another way to prevent a vehicle lockout is to keeping your keys in a backpack, purse or other bag that you carry throughout your journey. That way you're less likely forget your keys in a hurry. You can also search for them in the most common places, but don't attempt to hide them. Thieves are clever and might have thought of all the typical places to hide.

You may be able to use an application that turns your smartphone into the role of a key fob, based on the car manufacturer. This is a great solution if you have lost your keys, or are still in the car. It's accessible on many modern cars. Check the website of your automaker to determine if they have an app, and how to open a door without a key to install it. It is also advisable to check with your insurance company to find out whether you're covered in case that you lock your keys in the car. Roadside assistance generally covers these situations. However the exact terms and coverage amounts can vary.

2. Your transponder keys have failed

There aren't many things more frustrating in modern cars than being locked out. Luckily with the help of a professional locksmith, this issue can be solved quickly and without a lot of hassle.

Transponder keys are now a common feature in many automobiles because they offer greater security and efficiency. However, like any other electronic device, they can have issues and failures occasionally. Therefore, it's crucial to understand what signs your transponder keys are failing to ensure that it is repaired immediately.

If the transponder keys stop working in the car lock, this is a common sign. This can be caused by many different reasons. For example, it may be due to the microchip in the key has stopped working, or because of a problem with the RF signal that is sent between the chip and your car's computer system. Another possibility is the metal on the bottom of the key is worn or dull. This could interfere with the signal.

If this is the scenario, try using an alternative key to see whether it works in your car's lock. Check to see if there's any obstruction nearby that could hinder the signal. If you still have problems with your key, you should contact an expert locksmith who specializes in keys for vehicles. They'll be able to test it and perhaps fix it. They'll be able to tell the exact reason for the transponder key to malfunction and the best way to fix it. In the majority of cases locksmiths will be in a position to reprogram your key to ensure it works in your car again.

3. Your car's lock is jammed

Many car door lockouts can be attributed to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time, dirt and rust can build up within your lock, causing it to jam. 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 after you press the button.

You may have to grease the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser to unlock the lock. These are available at auto supply stores or at home improvement stores. They can be sprayed on the lock using a flathead screwdriver or other thin object that you could insert into the keyhole in order to reach the mechanism behind it. If you cannot insert the key or the key fob into the lock and then lubricate it in this manner, try moving the mechanism back and forth using needle-nose pliers until it feels free.

Another reason for vehicle lockouts is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder, or the interior locking switch/post/switch and the car door latch. Extreme weather conditions, or constant use of the lock may cause this. You will then be unable open the car door and gain access to your belongings.

One way to avoid this issue is to always keep a spare key secure and to replace the battery of your key fob regularly so that it lasts longer. Certain automakers have apps that you can download to allow remote unlocking of your vehicle in case it is locked. Check with your manufacturer to find out if a solution is available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs rely on batteries to operate and sometimes they are not able to provide juice. This issue can be fixed by changing the batteries. If your car key fob isn't working in any way, it could indicate that something else is not working. If you are experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your vehicle to determine what other steps you could take.

If your car key fob isn't working and you don't have a spare, you should consider calling a locksmith to assist you with accessing your vehicle. Many of these services provide emergency lockouts and may be able help you gain entry to your vehicle without having to pay an additional tow fee or recovery services.

You can also utilize a physical key to unlock your car. The majority of newer cars 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 to open the door and use the fob to press the start button (if it is required). Certain manufacturers have an automatic backup system in their car that allows you to start your car using dead fob.

Being locked out of your vehicle is never enjoyable and can be particularly frustrating when it happens in a strange place. The best way to avoid this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere secure at home or with a trusted friend, and to change the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. In addition, you could try to improve your ability to find your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that you can connect to an app on your smartphone and can be extremely helpful in locating your keys when they are lost or misplaced.

5. Your car's lock has accumulated dirt

Over time, grime and dirt build up inside the lock of your car. This could cause it to become jammed and prevent you from opening the door. To avoid this, you should grease the hinges and locks of your vehicle at least twice per year with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another method to avoid having a vehicle lock out is to always keep a spare key on hand. You can accomplish this in several ways. You can carry the spare key in your wallet or purse. Or, you could leave one with a family member or friend. Or, you can offer a set to the valet of your apartment building if it is an apartment complex. You should also have the contact number of your local locksmith on hand. This will spare you a lot of stress and money in the event you are locked out of your car.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services to assist drivers in regaining access to their vehicles in a lockout situation. 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 are available, you should call a local towing company to resolve the issue.

Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing service you need if you want a reliable and professional service.

It's never a good thing to be caught in a car lockout situation. There are many quick solutions to this issue. Keep a spare key on hand and knowing who to call to get help is always helpful and also. For more information, visit us on the internet today. We'll be glad to answer any of your questions. We look forward to working with you! You can also call us at (301) the 777-1877.