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, have a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
This article outlines some of the common causes of car lockouts and provides some easy DIY methods, such as using a modified coat hanger made of wire to open the door of your car.
1. You've Lost Your Keys
It's a nightmare for every car owner: you're about to run errands, and you forget keys on the seat or in the ignition. You're stuck outside after your door locks itself. This is the most frequent reason for locking out of vehicles. It's a good idea to keep a spare car key in a safe location.
It might appear like a complete failure, but don't worry. Most roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers offer locksmith services for cars, and they're trained to unlock nearly any car quickly. They can also assist you to determine the cause of the problem with the car's lock to prevent it happening again in future.
Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag while you travel. You're less likely to forget the keys when you do this. You can also look for them in common spots, but do not attempt to hide them. Thieves know how to be clever and may have already come up with the most common hiding places.
Based on the manufacturer of your car You may have the option of using an application which turns your smartphone into the key fob. This is a great option for those who have lost their keys, or are still in the car. It's accessible on many modern vehicles. Visit the website of your automaker to determine if they offer an application and how to install it. You should also check with your insurance company to determine whether you're covered in case that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually will cover these scenarios. However, the exact conditions and coverage amounts may vary.
2. Your transponder keys have failed
There are few things more frustrating when it comes to modern vehicles than being locked out. Fortunately, with the help of a professional locksmith, this problem can be solved quickly and without much hassle.
Transponder keys are now a standard in most automobiles, since they provide greater security and efficiency. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys can have problems and malfunctions from time the time. It is therefore important to know the signs that your transponder keys are failing so you can have it repaired immediately.
The most common indication that your transponder key isn't working is when it ceases to function in your car's lock. This could be due to many different reasons. It could be because the microchip inside the key has stopped working or there is a glitch with the RF signal transmitted by the chip to the computer in the car. Another possibility is that the bottom metal part of the key is worn or dull, which can cause interference with the signal from the radio.
If this is the case, try using a different key to see if it works in the lock of your car. Also, make vehicle lock out that there isn't a nearby object blocking the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, you could seek out a locksmith that specializes in vehicle transponder keys to have it tested and possibly repaired. They can tell you what's causing your transponder to fail and the best way to fix the issue. In most instances locksmiths will be capable of reprogramming the key so that it can work in your car again.
3. Your car's lock is jammed
Many car lockouts on doors can be attributed to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time, dirt and rust build up inside the lock, which causes it to block. This can make it difficult, even impossible, to open the door of your car and can also block your key fob from unlocking the door when you press the button.
It is possible to lubricate the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser to unlock the lock. These are available at auto supply shops or at home improvement stores. They can be glued to the lock with flatheads or another thin object that you can put in your keyhole to open the mechanism. If you are unable to insert the key fob or key key and grease the lock using this method, try wriggling it back and forth using needle-nosed pliers.
Another common cause of vehicle lockouts is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder or interior locking post/switch and the door latch of the car. 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 problem is to always keep a spare key secure and to replace the battery on your key fob regularly to make sure it lasts longer. Some automakers also offer download applications that allow you to remotely unlock your car when it's locked. Be sure to contact your manufacturer to find out whether they offer one.
4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died
Car key fobs rely on batteries to function and, sometimes they run out of juice. Luckily, you can solve this problem by simply replacing the batteries. However, if your car key fob isn't functioning at all It could be a sign something else is wrong. If you are experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your vehicle to find out what other steps you can take.
If you've lost your car key and don't have an extra call locksmiths for assistance. Many of these services offer emergency lockout services and may be able to help you gain access to your vehicle without the need to pay for a tow or other recovery service.
You can also use a physical key to unlock your vehicle. 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. You can also use the fob to press the start button (if required). Certain manufacturers have an emergency system built into their cars that allow you to start your vehicle with an unresponsive fob.
Being locked out of your vehicle is never a pleasant experience but it is especially stressful when it happens in a strange location. The best way to stop this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere safe at home or with a trusted person, and to change the battery on your key fob frequently. You can also try to increase the possibility of locating your keys by purchasing in a Bluetooth tracker. They emit a unique signature which can be connected to a phone app. This could be extremely useful in locating your keys if they are lost or misplaced.
5. Your car's lock has accumulated dirt
Over time, grime and dirt can accumulate within the lock of your car. This could cause it to become blocked and stop you from opening the door. To avoid this it is recommended that you be sure to lubricate the hinges and locks of your vehicle at least once a year using WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
A spare key is another option to avoid a car lockout. You can do this by keeping the spare key in your wallet or purse, leaving one with a family or friend member, or donating a set to your valet, if you live in an apartment building. Additionally you should keep the contact number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will save you money and stress should you ever have to be locked out of the vehicle.
Many automakers also provide roadside assistance to assist drivers in regaining access to their vehicles following a lockout situation. 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.
Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing service you need to get a reliable and professional service.
You should never be in a situation where you are locked out of your car. There are several quick solutions to this problem. A spare key should be kept on hand and knowing who to call to get help is always helpful and is also helpful. Visit us online to find out more. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to working with you. We can be reached at (301) the 777-1877.