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Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
Locking out your vehicle is a stressful event that can occur to anyone. To avoid this ensure you keep a spare car key in a secure place.
This article focuses on the most common causes of car lockouts, and provides easy DIY solutions, like using a modified coat hanger to unlock the doors of your car.
1. You forgot your keys
It's a nightmare for every car owner: you're about do some errands and you leave your keys on the seat or in the ignition. Before you know it, your door locks automatically, and you're locked outside. This is among the most common reasons for lockouts in vehicles and is a good reason to keep a spare key secure.
Don't be worried. It might seem like you've failed, but it isn't. Most roadside assistance as well as auto wreckers provide locksmith services and are trained to unlock nearly any car quickly. They can also help you figure out what went wrong with your car's lock, so you can prevent it from repeating itself in the future.
Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag while you drive. You're less likely forget your keys when you take this precaution. You can also search for them in the most common places, but don't attempt to hide them. Thieves can be clever and may have already come up with the most common hiding places.
Based on the car's manufacturer depending on the manufacturer of your car, you could be able to utilize an application that converts your smartphone into an electronic key fob. This is a great option if you have lost your keys, or are still in the car. It's accessible on many modern vehicles. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to determine if they offer an application and how to open car door without keys to set it up. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are 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
When it comes to modern vehicles, there are few things more frustrating than getting locked out of your car keys locked in car. With the help of a professional, this problem can be resolved quickly, and without much hassle.
Transponder keys are now a standard feature in many automobiles due to their increased security and function. Like any electronic device, transponder keys can have problems and malfunctions from time to time. Therefore, it's crucial to know the signs that your transponder key is failing so you can have it fixed immediately.
The most frequent indication that your transponder key isn't working is when it stops working in your car's lock. This can happen for various reasons. It could be because the microchip inside the key has stopped working or there is a problem with the RF signal transmitted by the chip to the car's computer. Another possibility is that the bottom metal part of the key is worn down or dull, which could hinder the signal from the radio.
If this is the case, try using an alternative key to see whether it works inside the lock of your car. You should also check to ensure that there's not an object in the vicinity that blocks the signal. If you're experiencing issues with your key, always contact a locksmith who is specialized in transponder keys for vehicles to test it and possibly repaired. They can to identify what's causing the transponder to malfunction and the best way to fix the issue. In most cases locksmiths will be capable of reprogramming the key so that it works in your car again.
3. The lock on your car is blocked
Many car lockouts on doors can be attributed to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time, dirt and rust can build up within your lock, causing it to block. This can make it difficult, even impossible, to open the door of your car and may also prevent your key fob from unlocking the door when you press its button.
If you are in this situation you might need to lubricate your lock with penetrating catalysts or WD-40 to loosen it. These products can be bought at home improvement centers or auto supply shops. They can be put on the lock using a flathead screwdriver or another thin object that you could put into the keyhole to access the mechanism behind it. If you cannot insert the key or key fob into the lock and lubricate it by this method, try wriggling the mechanism with needle-nose pliers until you feel free.
Another reason that causes car lockouts is a damaged link between the door handle, lock cylinder, or the interior locking post/switch, and the door latch for your car. This can be caused by extreme weather or by the constant use of the lock. This can result in your being incapable of opening your car's door and access your items.
To avoid this problem, you can keep a 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 applications that allow you to remotely unlock your car when it's locked, so be sure to inquire with your manufacturer to see whether they have a solution available.
4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died
Car key fobs use batteries to operate and sometimes, they run out of juice. This problem can be solved by changing the batteries. If your car's key fob doesn't work in any way, it could indicate something else is not working. Check the manual for your car if you're experiencing this problem.
If you've lost your car keys and don't have a spare, you can call locksmiths for help. Many of these services provide emergency lockouts and are in a position to help you gain access to your vehicle without the need to pay an additional tow fee or recovery services.
You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock your car. The majority of newer cars have a hidden key slot on the driver's side of the door, which is usually located behind the handle cover. Make use of the mechanical key for opening the door, and the fob to start the vehicle (if required). Some manufacturers have backup systems built-in that let you start your car with a dead key.
Getting locked out of your car is never a pleasant experience, and it is especially stressful when it happens in a strange area. The best way to avoid this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere safe at home or with a trusted person, and to replace the battery in your key fob regularly. You can also try to improve the ability to locate your keys by purchasing in a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be connected to an app on your phone and can be extremely useful in locating your keys if they are lost or have been misplaced.
5. Your car's lock has accumulated dirt
Over time, grime and dirt can build up in the lock of your car. This could cause it to get blocked and stop you from opening the door. To prevent this from happening it is recommended to grease the hinges and locks of your car at least once a year with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
A spare key is another option to avoid a car lockout. You can do this by putting an extra key in your purse or wallet or leaving it with a friend or family member or by giving one to your valet if you live in an apartment building. It is also advisable to keep the contact information of the locksmith in your area. This will help you avoid much stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your vehicle.
Many automakers provide roadside assistance to assist users gain access to their vehicle in the event of a lockout. This includes GM’s OnStar service, which has been available for years, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. However, if none of these options are available, call a local towing company to resolve the issue.
If you're looking for a reliable and professional towing service, contact Richman Automotive & Towing today!
It's never a good thing to be caught locked out of your car. There are several quick solutions to this issue. It is also beneficial to have a spare car key and be aware of who to call should you need assistance. To learn more, please visit us on the internet today. We'll be glad to answer all of your questions. We look forward working with you. We are also available to give us a an email at (301) 7777-1877.