Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
Anyone can experience the stress of a car lockout. To avoid this, always keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it somewhere safe.
This article explores the most common causes of
car lockouts and offers some easy DIY solutions, including using an altered coat hanger to open your car's doors.
1. You've forgotten your keys
It's a nightmare scenario for any car owner: you're about to make errands, but you forget your keys on the seat or in the ignition. You're suddenly stuck outside when your door locks by itself. This is the most frequent reason for locking out of vehicles. It's a good idea to keep the spare car key in a secure place.
It could appear like a complete failure, but don't panic. Many roadside assistance programs as well as auto wreckers offer locksmith services for vehicles and they're trained to open almost any vehicle swiftly. They can also assist you to identify the issue with the lock on your vehicle so you can avoid it repeating itself in the future.
Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag while you travel. So, you're less likely to forget them in an instant. You can also search for them in the most common spots, but do not try to hide them. Thieves are able to be clever and may have already thought of the most common hiding places.
Based on the car's manufacturer depending on the manufacturer of your
car keys locked in car, you could have the option to use an app that converts your smartphone into the key fob. This is especially useful if you've lost your keys or put them in your vehicle, and it's available for all modern vehicles. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to see if they have an application and how to set it up. Check with your insurance provider to find out if you're covered in the event that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance typically will cover these scenarios, but the exact terms and coverage amount could differ.
2. Your Transponder Keys Have Failed
In the world of modern vehicles there's nothing more frustrating than getting locked out of your vehicle. With the help of a professional, this problem can be resolved quickly, and without much hassle.
Transponder keys are now a standard feature in most automobiles due to their increased security and efficiency. But, just like any other electronic device, they can suffer from failures and problems from time to time. It's important to know the indicators that your transponder's failing, so you can get it serviced immediately.
The most frequent sign that your transponder key is failing is if it ceases to function in your car's lock. This can be caused by various reasons. It could be because the microchip inside the key has stopped working or there's a problem with the RF signal transmitted by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is that the bottom part of the key is worn or dull, which could hinder the RF signal.
If this is the case try a different key and check if it works. Also, ensure that there isn't any obstruction in the area that could block the signal. Finally, if you're still having issues with your key, you could call a locksmith who is specialized in transponder keys for vehicles to have it tested and possibly repaired. They'll be able to tell the exact reason for your transponder key to fail and
how to open a car door without a key to fix it. In most cases, a locksmith will be capable of reprogramming your key to ensure it works in your car again.
3. Your car's lock is jammed
Many car lockouts at the door can be traced to a blocked or jammed lock mechanism. Over time, rust and dirt can accumulate inside your lock, causing it to jam. This can make it difficult, or even impossible to open your car's door and can also block your key fob from unlocking the door after you press the button.
It is possible to grease the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to unjam. These products can be purchased at home improvement stores or auto supply shops. They can be sprayed on the lock using a flathead screwdriver, or any other thin object that you could insert into the keyhole to access the mechanism behind it. If you can't insert the key or key fob to apply lubrication to the lock by wriggling it back and forth using needle-nosed pliers.
Another common cause of car lockouts is a damaged 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. Then you'll 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 somewhere secure and replace your key fob battery frequently to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers offer applications that can be downloaded to allow remote unlocking of your vehicle if it is locked. Check with your manufacturer to find out if a solution is available.
4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died
Batteries power key fobs for cars and they are prone to running out of power. This issue can be resolved by simply replacing the batteries. If your car key fob doesn't function at all, it could be an indication that something else is wrong. Refer to the manual of your car in case you're experiencing this issue.
If you have lost your car key and don't own a spare contact a locksmith for help. Many of these services offer emergency lockout services and
Download free could be able to help you gain access to your car without the need to pay for a tow or another recovery service.
You can also use a physical key to unlock your car. Most newer vehicles have a hidden key slot 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 a backup system built into their vehicles that allows you to start your vehicle using a dead fob.
Getting locked out of your car is never a pleasant experience but it can be particularly frustrating when it occurs in a foreign place. The best way to prevent 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. You can also increase the possibility of locating your keys by purchasing in a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that you can connect to an app on your smartphone and can be extremely useful in finding your keys when they get lost or have been misplaced.
5. The lock on your car has accumulated dirt
Over time over time, grime, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in your car's locks, causing them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To avoid this it is crucial to lubricate your locks and hinges at a minimum of twice a year with either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
Another way to prevent the loss of your vehicle lock is to always keep an extra key in your possession. You can do this in a few ways. You can keep an extra key in your purse or wallet. Or, you could leave it with an individual from your family or a friend. You could also offer a set to the valet at your apartment if it's an apartment complex. In addition you should keep the number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will save you money and stress should you ever get locked out of your vehicle.
Many automakers also provide roadside assistance to help drivers regain access to their vehicles during an incident of lockout. This includes GM's long-standing OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options are available, contact a towing company in your area to fix the problem.
If you're in search of a trustworthy and reliable towing service, call Richman Automotive & Towing today!