Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
Locking out your vehicle can be a stressful and frightening experience that can occur to anyone. To avoid this, keep a spare car key in a safe location.
This article examines the most frequent causes of car lockouts, and offers some simple DIY solutions, including using a modified coat hanger to open the doors of your car.
1. You forgot your keys
It's a nightmare scenario for any car owner: you're about make errands, but you forget keys on the seat or in the ignition. You're stuck outside after your door locks by itself. This is one of the most frequent reasons for lockouts in vehicles, and a good reason to always keep a spare key somewhere safe.
Don't be worried. It might appear like you've failed, however it's not. Most roadside assistance as well as auto wreckers provide locksmith services and are trained to unlock nearly any vehicle swiftly. They can also help you identify the issue with your car's lock so you can stop it from happening again in the future.
Another way to prevent a car lockout is by keeping your keys in a backpack, purse or other bag you take with you on all drives. You're less likely to forget the keys if you do this. 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 places to hide.
Based on the car's manufacturer depending on the manufacturer of your car, you could have the option of using an app which turns your smartphone into a key fob. This is a great option if you have lost your keys, or if they are still in the car. It's a feature that is available on all modern vehicles. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to see if they have an app and how to configure it. Contact your insurance company to see if you are covered in the event that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually covers these situations, though the exact terms and amount of coverage could differ.
2. Your Transponder Keys have failed
There aren't many things that are more than a hassle when it comes to modern automobiles than being locked out. Fortunately with the assistance of a professional locksmith, this issue can be solved quickly and with minimal hassle.
Transponder keys have become a standard feature in most cars because they offer increased security and efficiency. However, like any other electronic device, they can suffer from failures and problems occasionally. Therefore, it's crucial to recognize the signs that your transponder key is not working so you can have it serviced right away.
The most typical indication that your transponder keys is not working is when it ceases to function in your car's lock. This could be due to many different reasons. It could be that the microchip in the key has stopped functioning or there is a problem with the RF signal that is sent by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is that the metal on the bottom part of the key is worn out or dull, which could cause interference with the RF signal.
If this is the case, try using another key to determine whether it will work inside the lock of your car. Examine if there's any obstruction nearby that could block the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, you can always contact a locksmith who specializes in vehicle transponder keys to test it and possibly repaired. 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 instances your locksmith will be capable of reprogramming your key to allow it to work in your vehicle.
3. Your Car's Lock is Jammed
A jammed or blocked locking mechanism is the root of many car door lockouts. Over time dirt, rust and other impurities could build up inside the lock, causing it to become jammed. This can make it difficult to open the car door. It may also prevent you from using your key fob to unlock the door.
It is possible to grease the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser to free it from jamming. These items can be found at home improvement centers or at auto supply stores. They can be glued to the lock with flatheads or another thin object that you can stick into your keyhole to gain access to the mechanism. If you are unable to insert the key or key fob into the lock and then lubricate it by this method, try wriggling the mechanism back and forth with needle-nose pliers until it feels free.
A damaged link between the lock cylinder interior locking switch/post and the car latch is another common cause of vehicle locks out. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather conditions or due to the continuous use of the lock. This can result in your being incapable of opening the door of your vehicle and access your items.
To avoid this To avoid this, keep a spare car key in a secure location and change the battery of your key fob on a regular basis to prolong its life. Certain automakers have apps that can be downloaded to unlock your car remotely if it is locked. Contact your manufacturer to determine if such an app 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 problem can be solved by changing the batteries. However, if your car key fob doesn't work at all, it could be a sign that something else is not working properly. If you are having this issue, check the manual for your vehicle to determine what other steps you could take.
If you have lost your car key and don't have spare keys, you can call locksmiths for help. Many of these services offer emergency lockout services and may be able to assist you gain access to your vehicle without the need to pay for a tow or another recovery services.
You could also try using a key to open the door of your car. Most newer vehicles have a hidden key slot on the driver's side of the door, which is typically hidden behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and use the fob to push the start button (if required). Some manufacturers have backup systems built-in that allow you to start your car with a dead key.
It's never fun being locked out of your vehicle particularly when it happens in a remote place. Keep a spare car key at your home or with trusted acquaintances and replace the battery of your key fob on a regular basis. You can also improve the ability to locate your keys by investing an Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature which can be connected to a smartphone app. This can be extremely helpful in finding your keys if they are lost or have been misplaced.
5. Your car's lock has accumulated dirt
Over time, dirt, grime, and other particles can build up in the locks of your car, causing them to jam and block the ability to open your door. To avoid this it is essential to keep your locks lubricated and hinges at least once each year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
A spare key is another way to avoid a vehicle lockout. You can do this by putting the spare key in your purse or wallet and leaving it with a family member or giving a set to your valet if live in an apartment building. You should also have the number of the locksmith in your area. This will save you time and stress if you ever get 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. If none of these options are available, call a towing company in your area 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 idea to find yourself locked out of your car. There are car opener service to this problem. A spare key should be kept on hand and knowing who you can call for help is always helpful and also. Visit us online to find out more. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward to working with you. We can be reached at (301) the 777-1877.