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

Vehicle lock out is a stressful event that can occur to anyone. To prevent this from happening, always keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it in a safe location.

This article examines the most common causes of car lockout 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

You're about run errands and you forget your keys in the ignition or on the seat. Before you know it, your door locks automatically, and you're stuck outside. This is the most common reason for locking out of vehicles. It's a good idea to keep a spare car key in a secure place.

It could appear like a complete failure, but don't worry. Most roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers provide locksmith services for cars, and they're trained to unlock almost any car quickly. They can also help you figure out what went wrong with the lock on your vehicle so you can stop it from happening again in the future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag whenever you travel. This way, you're less likely to lose them in an instant. You can also search for them in common places, but don't attempt to hide them. Thieves can be clever and may have already come up with the most commonly used hiding spots.

You may be able to use an application that can turn your smartphone into a key fob, depending on the car's manufacturer. This is a great option for those who have lost their keys, or if they are still in the car. It's accessible on many modern cars. Check your automaker's website to find out if they've got an app and how to set it up. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered in the event that you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance usually covers these kinds of situations. However, the exact details and coverage amounts could vary.

2. Your Transponder Keys Are Not Working

In the world of modern vehicles, there are few things more frustrating than being locked out of your vehicle. Fortunately, with the help of a professional locksmith, this issue can be solved quickly and without a lot of hassle.

Transponder keys are now an integral part of many automobiles because they provide greater security and function. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys may have issues and malfunction from time to moment. As such, it's important to know the signs that your transponder key is failing to be able to get it repaired immediately.

The most typical indication that your transponder key isn't working is when it stops working in the lock of your car. This could be due to various reasons. For example, it may be because the microchip inside the key has stopped working or because there is an issue with the radio signal that is sent between the chip and your car's computer system. Another possibility is that the metal on the bottom part of the key is worn down or dull, which can cause interference with the RF signal.

If this is the case, try using a different key to see whether it will work inside the lock of your car. Check to see if there's anything nearby that could be blocking the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, call a locksmith near me open now that specializes in keys for vehicles. They'll test it and possibly repair it. They can tell you what's causing your transponder's malfunction and how to fix the issue. In the majority of instances, a locksmith will be capable of reprogramming the key so that it works in your car lockout assistance again.

3. The lock on your car is stuck

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

You may have to lubricate the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to unlock the lock. These products can be bought at home improvement centers or at auto supply stores. You can apply them to the lock using a flathead or other thin object that you can put into your keyhole to gain access to the mechanism. If you're unable to insert the key or key fob to lubricate the lock using this method, try wriggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.

A damaged link between the lock cylinder interior locking switch/post and the car latch is another frequent reason why locks on vehicles fail. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather conditions or by the constant use of the lock. This could result in you being incapable of opening your car's door and gain access to your items.

To avoid this, you can keep an extra 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 also offer download apps that you can use to remotely unlock your car if it's locked, so be sure to inquire with the manufacturer to determine whether they offer one.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries are used to charge car key fobs, and they are prone to running out of power. This problem can be solved by simply changing the batteries. If your car's key fob isn't working at all, this could indicate that something else is wrong. If you are experiencing this issue, you should consult the manual for your vehicle to see what other steps you can take.

If your car's key fob isn't working and you don't have a spare, consider hiring a locksmith to assist you with accessing your vehicle. Many of these services offer emergency lockout services and could be able to help gain access to your vehicle without the need to pay for a tow or other recovery service.

You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock your car. The driver's door on most modern cars has a concealed slot for keys. It is usually under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key for opening the door, and 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.

Locked out of your vehicle is never fun, and it can be especially frustrating when it happens in a strange location. Keep an extra car key at home or with trusted family members and replace the battery in your key fob regularly. Additionally, you can try to increase the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a distinct signature that can be linked to an app on your phone, which can be very useful in finding your keys when they are lost or have been misplaced.

5. The lock of your car has been accumulating dirt

Over time, grime and dirt can build up in the lock of your car, which can cause it to become stuck and stop you from opening the door. To avoid this, it is important to grease your locks and hinges at least twice a year with either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another way to prevent the possibility of a vehicle lock being lost is to always keep a spare key on hand. You can do this by putting a spare key in your purse or wallet, leaving one with a family member, or donating a set to your valet if live in an apartment building. Additionally you should keep the number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will help you save time and stress if you ever need to get locked out of your vehicle.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services that can help drivers regain access to their vehicles following an emergency lockout. This includes GM’s OnStar service, which has been around for years, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. If none of these options are available, you should contact a local towing service to solve the problem.

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

It's never a good idea to be in a car lockout situation. There are several quick solutions to this problem. It is also helpful to have a spare car key and be aware of who to call should you need help. For more information, visit us on the internet today. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward working with you. You can also give us the number (301) the 777-1877.