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

Everyone can feel the strain of a car lockout. To avoid this, always have a spare key and keep it in a safe location.

This article outlines some of the common causes of car lockout and suggests some easy DIY methods, such as using an altered wire coat hanger to open the door of your car.

1. You forgot your keys

It's a nightmare scenario for every car owner: you're about to run errands, and you forget your keys on the seat or in the ignition. You're stuck outside after your door locks by itself. This is among the most frequent causes for lockouts in vehicles and is a great reason to keep a spare key somewhere safe.

Don't get stressed. It might seem as if you've failed but it isn't. Most roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers provide locksmith services for vehicles, and they're trained to open almost any car quickly. They can also help you determine the cause of the problem with the car's lock to ensure that you don't risk it happening again in future.

Another way to avoid a car lockout is by keeping your keys in a backpack, purse or other bag that you carry on every trip. That way you're less likely lose them in a hurry. You can also search for them in the most common places, but don't try to hide them. Thieves are clever and might have considered all the usual hiding spots.

You could be able make use of an app that transforms your smartphone in a key fob, depending on the manufacturer of your car. This is a great option for those who have lost their keys, or if they 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 app and how to open a locked car to install it. Contact your insurance company to determine if you're covered when you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance generally covers these situations. However the exact details and coverage amounts could vary.

2. Your transponder keys have failed

In the world of modern automobiles, there are few things more frustrating than getting locked out of your car. With the assistance of a professional, this issue can be resolved quickly, and without much hassle.

Transponder keys have become a standard feature in most automobiles due to their increased security and function. Like any electronic device transponder keys can have problems and malfunctions from time moment. It is therefore important to understand what signs your transponder key is not working to ensure that it is fixed immediately.

The most common indication that your transponder keys is not working is when it ceases to function in your car's i lock my keys in the car. This can be caused by many different reasons. It could be that the microchip in the key has stopped functioning 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 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 in the lock of your car door lockout. Examine if there's something in the vicinity that could hinder the signal. Finally, if you're still having trouble with your key, you could always contact a locksmith who is specialized in transponder keys for vehicles to test it and possibly repaired. They will be able identify the issue that caused the transponder to malfunction and how to get my keys out of my locked car to fix the issue. In the majority of instances locksmiths are able reprogram your key to make it work again in your vehicle.

3. Your Car's Lock Has Jammed

A jammed or blocked locking mechanism is the reason of many car door lockouts. Over time, dirt, rust, and other impurities could build in your lock and cause it to block. This can make it extremely difficult to open the car door. It may also prevent you from using your key fob to unlock the door.

You may have to lubricate the lock using WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser to unjam. These items can be found at home improvement centers or auto supply shops. They can be sprayed on the lock with a flathead screwdriver, or any other thin object that you could insert into the keyhole to reach the mechanism behind it. If you can't insert the key or key fob and lubricate the lock by wriggling it back and forth using needle-nosed pliers.

A damaged link between the lock's cylinder or interior locking switch/post and the car opening service latch is another common cause of vehicle locks out. Extreme weather conditions, or constant use of the lock may cause this. You will then be unable to open your car door and gain access to your belongings.

One method to avoid this problem is to always keep a spare key somewhere secure and replace your key fob battery regularly to make sure it lasts longer. Certain automakers have apps that you can download to allow remote unlocking of your vehicle if it is locked. Check with your manufacturer to find out if one is available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs use batteries to function and, sometimes they run out of juice. This issue can be resolved by changing the batteries. If your car's key fob doesn't function at all, it could indicate something else is not working. If you're experiencing this issue, you should consult the manual for your vehicle to find out what other steps you could take.

If you've lost your car key and don't have spare keys, you can call locksmiths for help. Many of these services provide emergency lockouts and are capable of helping you gain access to your vehicle without paying for towing or other recovery services.

You could also try using a key to unlock your car's door. The majority of newer cars have a hidden key slot 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 necessary). Some manufacturers have an emergency system built into their cars that allow you to start your car by using dead fob.

It's never fun being locked out of your car and especially when it happens in a secluded area. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key secure at home or with a trusted friend and to replace the battery on your key fob frequently. You can also try to improve the ability to locate your keys by purchasing in a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit an unique signature which you can connect to a smartphone app. This could be extremely useful in locating your keys in case they get lost or have been misplaced.

5. The lock of your car has been accumulating dirt

Over time, grime and dirt can accumulate within your car's lock, which could cause it to become jammed and prevent you from opening the door. To avoid this, it is important to lubricate your locks and hinges at a minimum of twice every year using either 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 it with an individual from your family or a friend. You could also give a set to the valet at your apartment if it's an apartment complex. In addition you should keep the contact number of your locksmith on hand. This will spare you much stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your vehicle.

Many automakers provide roadside assistance that can help drivers gain access to their vehicle in case of lockout. This includes GM's enduring OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service and Hyundai Blue Link. However, if none of these options are available, you should contact a local towing service to resolve the problem.

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

It's never a good thing to find yourself locked out of your car. There are a variety of quick solutions to this problem. It is also helpful to have a spare car key and know who to call if you require assistance. For more information, visit us online today. We're happy to answer any questions you might have. We look forward to working with you! You can also call us at (301) the 777-1877.