Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
A vehicle lockout is a stressful event that can happen to anyone. To avoid this make sure you keep a spare key in a secure place.
This article focuses on the most common causes of car lockouts and offers some simple DIY solutions, including using an old coat hanger to unlock the doors of your car.
1. You Forgot Your Keys
You're about run errands and you forget your keys in the ignition or on the seat. Then you're locked outside because your door locks itself. This is the most common reason for vehicle lockouts. It's recommended to keep an extra car key in a secure location.
It may appear like a complete failure, but don't be worried. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers offer locksmith services and are trained to unlock nearly every vehicle quickly. They can also help determine the cause of the problem with the lock on your car to ensure that you don't risk repeating the same issue in the future.
Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag while you travel. You're less likely to lose them when you use this method. You can also search for them in common places, but don't attempt to hide them--thieves are smart and might have thought of all the typical places to hide.
Based on the car's manufacturer You may have the option of using an app which turns your smartphone into the key fob. This is particularly useful if you've lost your keys or have left them in the car, and it's available for all modern automobiles. Visit the website of your automaker to see if it has an application, and how to install it. Contact your insurance company to determine if you're covered when you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance usually will cover these scenarios, but exact terms and coverage amounts may vary.
2. Your Transponder Keys Have Failed
There are few things that are more difficult in modern cars than being locked out. Fortunately, with the assistance of a skilled locksmith, this issue can be solved quickly and with minimal hassle.
Transponder keys are now common feature in all automobiles because they offer greater security and efficiency. However, like any other electronic device, they may have issues and failures occasionally. It is therefore important to understand what signs your transponder key is not working so you can have it serviced right away.
If the transponder keys stop working in the lock of your car it is a typical indication. This could be due to various reasons. For instance, it could be due to the microchip in the key has stopped working, or due to an issue with the radio signal that is sent between the chip and the computer in your car's system. Another possibility is the bottom metal of the key is worn or dull. This can interfere with the signal.
If this is the situation, try using a different key to see if that works. You should also make sure that there isn't an object in the vicinity that blocks the signal. Finally, if you're still having issues with your key, you could call a locksmith who specialises in transponder keys for vehicles to have it tested and possibly repaired. They can to identify what's causing your transponder to fail and how to fix the problem. In most instances locksmiths are in a position to reprogram your key and allow it to work in your vehicle.
3. The lock on your car is blocked
Many car door lockouts can be attributed to a blocked or jammed lock mechanism. Over time, dirt, rust, and other impurities can build up inside your lock and cause it to jam. This can make it very 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 unjam. These products can be bought at home improvement stores or at auto supply stores. They can be put on the lock with a flathead screwdriver, or any other small object that you can insert into the keyhole in order to get at the mechanism behind it. If you're unable to insert the key or key fob to grease the lock this way, try wiggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.
Another common cause of vehicle lockout is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder or the interior locking switch/post/switch and the door latch for your car. Extreme weather conditions or continuous use of the lock can cause this. Then you'll be unable to open the car door and gain access to your belongings.
To avoid this problem to avoid this issue, keep the spare car key in a secure location and replace the battery of your key fob regularly to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers offer download apps that can be used to remotely unlock your car if it's locked, so be sure to contact your manufacturer to see whether they have a solution available.
4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died
Batteries power car key fobs and they can run out of power. Luckily, you can often solve this issue by replacing the batteries. If your car key fob isn't working in any way, it could be an indication that something else is not working. If you are experiencing this issue, consult the manual for your car to see what other steps you can take.
If your car key fob isn't working and you don't have a spare, think about hiring a locksmith to assist you in getting into your vehicle. A lot of locksmiths offer emergency lockouts, and could be capable of helping you gain access to your vehicle without paying for towing or other recovery services.
You can also utilize a physical key to unlock your vehicle. The driver's door on most newer vehicles has a hidden slot for keys. It's usually located under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door. You can also use the fob to press the start button (if it is required). Some manufacturers have an emergency system built into their vehicles that allows you to start your vehicle by using dead fob.
Locked out of your vehicle is never a pleasant experience, and it can be particularly frustrating when it occurs in a foreign place. Keep a spare car key at home or with trusted friends, and replace the battery of your key fob regularly. You can also enhance the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit an unique signature that can be connected to a mobile application. This can 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 dirt, grime and other debris can accumulate within the locks of your car, causing them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To avoid this it is essential to lubricate your locks and hinges at a minimum of twice every year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
Another way to prevent the loss of your vehicle lock is to always keep a spare key on hand. You can do this by putting the spare key in your wallet or purse and leaving it with a friend or family member, or donating a set to your valet, if you live in an apartment. In addition, you should also keep the number of your locksmith handy. This will save you lots of stress and money in the event that you get locked out of your vehicle.
Many automakers provide roadside assistance to assist drivers gain access to their car in the event of a lockout. This includes GM's OnStar service that has been in operation for a long time, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. If none of these options is available, call a towing company in your area to resolve the problem.
If you're in search of a professional and reliable towing service, contact Richman Automotive & Towing today!
It's never a great thing to be locked out of your car. There are open my car of quick solutions for this problem. It is also helpful to have a spare car key, and know who to contact if you need help. To learn more, please visit us online today. We'll be happy to answer all of your questions. We look forward working with you. You can also contact us at (301) 7777-1877.