Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
Everyone can feel the strain of a vehicle lockout. To avoid this make sure you keep a spare key in a safe location.
This article explores the most common causes of car lockouts and offers some simple DIY solutions, like using a modified coat hanger to unlock your car's doors.
1. You've lost your keys
You're about run errands and you forget your keys in the ignition or on the seat. You're stuck outside after your door locks itself. This is the most typical reason for vehicle lockouts. It's a good idea to keep a spare car key in a safe place.
Don't panic. It might seem as if you've failed but it's not. Most roadside assistance as well as auto wreckers offer locksmith services, and are trained to unlock almost any car quickly. They can also help you determine what went wrong with the car's lock to prevent it from happening again in the future.
Another method to avoid having your vehicle lock out is by keeping your keys in a backpack, purse or other bag that you carry on all drives. That way you're less likely to forget your keys in a hurry. You can also search for them in common places, but don't try to conceal them. Thieves know how to be clever and may have already thought of the most common hiding places.
Based on the manufacturer of your car, you may have the option of using an application that converts your smartphone into the key fob. This is particularly useful if you've lost your keys or left them in the vehicle and is compatible with most modern vehicles. Visit the website of your automaker to determine if they have an application, and how to install it. Also, you should contact your insurance provider to determine if you're covered in the event that you lock your keys in the car. Roadside assistance usually will cover these scenarios, but the exact terms and coverage amount might differ.
2. Your transponder keys have failed
When it comes to modern vehicles, there are few things more frustrating than being locked out of your car. With the assistance of a professional, this issue can be resolved quickly, and without much hassle.
Transponder keys have become a standard feature in most automobiles because they provide greater security and efficiency. Like any electronic device transponder keys can have problems and malfunctions from time to the time. As such, it's important to know the signs that your transponder keys are failing to ensure that it is serviced right away.
If your transponder keys cease to work in the lock of your car it is a typical sign. This could be due to various reasons. It could be due to the microchip in the key has stopped working or due to a problem with the RF signal that is transmitted between the chip and your car's computer system. Another possibility is that the metal on the bottom part of the key is worn or dull, which can interfere with the signal from the radio.
If this is the situation try a different key and see if that works. You should also ensure that there isn't a nearby object blocking the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, you can seek out a locksmith that specialises 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 fix it. In the majority of cases your locksmith will be in a position to reprogram your key and allow it to work in your vehicle.
3. Your Car's Lock Has Jammed
Many car lockouts at the door can be traced to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time dirt, rust and other impurities could build in your lock and cause it to block. This can make it difficult to open your car door. It could also stop you from using your key fob to unlock the door.
You may have to grease the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to unlock the lock. These items can be found at home improvement stores or auto supply shops. You can attach them to the lock using a flathead or other thin object that you can put in your keyhole to access the mechanism. If you cannot insert the key or key fob into the lock and lubricate it in this manner, try moving the mechanism back and forth using needle-nose pliers until you feel free.
Another common cause of car lockouts is a damaged link between the door handle, lock cylinder or the interior locking post/switch, and the door latch of the car. Extreme weather conditions, or constant use of the lock could cause this. Then you'll be unable to open your car door and gain access to your belongings.
To avoid this issue to avoid this issue, keep the spare car key in a safe location and replace the battery in the key fob frequently to make it last longer. Some automakers offer apps that can be downloaded to unlock your car remotely in case it is locked. Contact your automaker to find out if one is available.
4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died
Car key fobs use batteries to function and, sometimes they are not able to provide juice. This problem can be solved by simply changing the batteries. If your car key fob doesn't work at all, it could be an indication that something else is not working. If you are experiencing this issue, you should consult the manual for your vehicle to see what other steps you could take.
If you have lost your car key and don't own a spare call a locksmith for help. A lot of locksmiths offer emergency lockout services and could be able to assist you gain access to your vehicle without the need to pay for a tow or another recovery services.
You can also try using a physical key to open your car door. car open services come with a key slot hidden 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 then the fob to start the vehicle (if needed). Certain manufacturers have built-in backup systems that let you start your car with a dead key.
Being locked out of your car is never enjoyable, and it is especially stressful when it happens in an unfamiliar area. Keep a spare car key at your home or with trusted acquaintances, and replace the battery in your key fob regularly. You can also improve the ability to locate your keys by purchasing in a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be linked to an app on your phone that can be useful in finding your keys when they get lost or are not found.
5. The lock on your car has accumulated dirt
Over time, grime and dirt build up inside the lock of your car, which could cause it to get stuck and stop you from opening the door. To prevent this from happening it is crucial to keep your locks lubricated and hinges at a minimum of twice every year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
Another way to prevent a vehicle lock out is to always have an extra key on hand. You can do this by carrying the spare key in your purse or wallet or leaving it with a family member, or donating a set to your valet if you live in an apartment. It is also advisable to have the number of the locksmith in your area. This will help you save money and stress if you ever need to get locked out of your vehicle.
Many automakers offer roadside assistance to assist users gain access to their vehicle in a lockout scenario. This includes GM's OnStar service, which has been around for years, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. However, if none of these options are available, you should contact a local towing service to solve the issue.
Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing service you need to get a reliable and professional service.
It's never a great thing to find yourself in a car lockout situation. There are a variety of quick solutions to this issue. It is also helpful to have a spare car key, and know who to contact if you need help. Visit us online to find out more. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward to working with you! You can also give us a an email at (301) 7777-1877.