Vehicle Lock Out – Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
Anyone can experience the stress of a vehicle lockout. To avoid this, always have a spare key and keep it somewhere safe.
This article examines the most common causes of car lockout and provides some easy DIY techniques, like using a modified wire coat hanger to unlock your car’s door.
1. You’ve Forgotten Your Keys
You’re preparing to run errands when you have forgotten your keys in the ignition or on the seat. Then, before you know it your door locks automatically and you’re trapped outside. This is one of the most frequent reasons for vehicle lockouts, and a good reason to always keep a spare key secure.
It may seem like a complete failure, but don’t panic. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers offer locksmith services, and are trained to unlock nearly any car quickly. They can also help you determine the cause of the problem with the car’s lock to prevent it from happening again in the future.
Keep your keys in your backpack, purse or bag whenever you drive. This way you’re less likely forget them in a hurry. You can also search for them in the most common places, but don’t attempt to hide them. Thieves are clever and may have considered all the usual hiding spots.
You may be able to make use of an app that transforms your smartphone into the role of a key fob, based on the car manufacturer. This is especially useful in the event that you’ve lost your keys or have left them in the car and is compatible with most modern automobiles. Check the website of your car maker to determine if it offers an application, and then how to install it. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered when you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance generally covers these situations. However, the exact conditions and coverage amounts may differ.
2. Your transponder keys are not working.
When it comes to modern automobiles there aren’t many things more frustrating than getting locked out of your car. With the assistance of an expert, this issue can be resolved quickly, and without too much hassle.
Transponder keys are now a common feature in many cars, as they offer greater security and functionality. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys may have issues and malfunctions from time moment. It is therefore important to recognize the signs that your transponder key is not working to ensure that it is repaired immediately.
If your transponder keys stop working in the lock of your car, this is a common indication. This could be due to a number of reasons. It could be that the microchip inside the key is not functioning properly 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 part of the key is worn or dull, which can interfere with the RF signal.
If this is the situation, try another key and try to see if it works. Also, ensure that there isn’t an object in the vicinity that blocks the signal. Finally, if you’re still having issues with your key, seek out a locksmith that specializes in vehicle unlocking transponder keys to have it tested and possibly repaired. They’ll be able tell the exact reason for your transponder key to fail and how to fix it. In the majority of cases your locksmith will be able reprogram your key to allow it to work in your vehicle.
3. Your Car’s Lock is Jammed
Many car door lockouts can be attributed to a blocked or jammed lock mechanism. Over time, dirt and rust can build up inside your lock, causing it to jam. This could make it difficult, if not impossible, to open your car’s door and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door after you press its button.
It is possible to grease the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to unjam. These are available at auto supply stores or home improvement stores. They can be glued to the lock using flatheads or another thin object that you can stick in your keyhole to access the mechanism. If you can’t insert the key or key fob and Car Key Specialist apply lubrication to the lock using this method, try wriggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.
Another reason that causes car lockouts is a damaged link between the door handle, lock cylinder or the interior locking post/switch, and the car door latch. This can be caused by extreme weather or by the constant use of the lock, and could result in you being unable to open the door of your car and access your belongings.
One way to avoid this issue is to always keep a spare key somewhere safe and to replace your key fob battery frequently to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers also offer download applications that allow you to remotely unlock your car when you’re locked out, so be sure to inquire with your manufacturer to find out whether they have a solution available.
4. Your Car’s Key Fob Has Died
Batteries power key fobs for cars and they can run out of power. Fortunately, you can usually resolve this issue by replacing the batteries. If your Car key specialist key fob doesn’t function in any way, it could indicate that something else is wrong. Check the manual for your car when you’re experiencing this issue.
If your car key fob isn’t working and you don’t have a spare, think about hiring a locksmith to help you get into your vehicle. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockout services and could be able to help you gain access to your vehicle without having to pay for a tow or any other recovery service.
You can also use a physical key to unlock your vehicle. The driver’s side door of many newer vehicles has a hidden slot for keys. It’s usually hidden under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and use the fob to push the start button (if necessary). Certain manufacturers have an emergency system built into their car that allows you to start your vehicle using a dead fob.
It’s never fun being locked out of your vehicle, especially when it happens in a secluded place. Keep a spare car key at home or with trusted friends and change the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. Additionally, you can try to improve the ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a distinctive signature that you can connect to an app on your phone and can be extremely helpful in locating your keys when they get lost or are not found.
5. The lock of your car has been accumulating dirt
Over time over time, grime, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in your car’s locks and cause them to jam and block the ability to open your door. To prevent this from happening it is recommended that you be sure to lubricate the hinges and locks of your vehicle at least twice per year with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
A spare key is another way to avoid a vehicle lockout. You can do this by putting an extra key in your wallet or purse and leaving it with a family or friend member or by giving one to your valet if reside in an apartment. It is also advisable to have the contact number of the locksmith you can contact. This will save you time and stress if you ever need to get locked out of your vehicle.
Many automakers provide roadside assistance to help users gain access to their car in case of lockout. This includes GM’s OnStar service, which has been in operation for a long time, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. If none of these options is available, call a local towing company in your area to resolve the issue.
If you’re in search of a trustworthy and reliable towing service, call Richman Automotive & Towing today!
It’s never a great thing to be locked out of your car. Fortunately, there are many 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 help. For more information, 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 the number (301) 7777-1877.