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Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key

A vehicle lockout - Full Statement, is a stressful experience that can happen to anyone. To avoid this make sure you keep a spare key in a safe location.

This article explores the most frequent reasons for car lockouts and provides easy DIY solutions, including using an altered coat hanger to open your car's doors.

1. You've Forgotten Your Keys

You're about run errands and you have forgotten your keys in the ignition or on the seat. In no time, your door locks automatically and you're locked outside. This is the most frequent reason for locking out of vehicles. It's recommended to keep an extra car key in a safe location.

Don't be worried. It may seem as if you've failed but it isn't. Most roadside assistance and auto wreckers provide locksmith services, and are trained to unlock almost any vehicle swiftly. They can also help determine what went wrong with your car key lock out's lock so you can avoid it repeating itself 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 every trip. This way you're less likely lose your keys in an instant. You can also look for them in common places, but don't attempt to hide them. Thieves are clever and might have considered all the usual hiding spots.

You may be able to use an application that can turn your smartphone in the role of a key fob, based on the manufacturer of your car. This is particularly useful if you've lost your keys or left them in the vehicle, and it's available for most modern automobiles. Check your automaker's website to determine if they offer an app and how to set it up. Contact your insurance company to determine if you're covered when you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance typically will cover these scenarios, but the exact terms and coverage amount could differ.

2. Your transponder keys are not working.

There aren't many things that are more difficult in modern automobiles than being locked out. With the help of a professional, this issue can be resolved quickly, and without much hassle.

Transponder keys are a common feature in all automobiles, since they provide greater security and functionality. Like any electronic device transponder keys aren't without fault and malfunction from time to time. It is important to recognize the indicators that your transponder is not functioning properly to ensure that you be sure to have it fixed immediately.

The most common sign that your transponder key is failing is if it ceases to function in the lock of your car. This could be due to many reasons. It could be that the microchip inside the key has stopped working or there's a problem between the RF signal sent by the chip to the car's computer. Another possibility is the metal on the bottom of the key being worn or dull. This could cause interference with the signal.

If this is the case try another key and see if that works. Also, ensure that there's not a nearby object blocking the signal. If you're having trouble with your key, call a locksmith who specialises in transponder keys for vehicles to test it and possibly repaired. They'll be able to inform you precisely what's causing your transponder key to fail and how to unlock your car door without a key to fix it. In the majority of instances, your locksmith will be able reprogram your key to allow it to work in your vehicle.

3. Your car's lock is jammed

A blocked or jammed locking mechanism is the root of many lockouts at the car door. Over time, dirt and rust can accumulate inside your lock, causing it to block. This can make it difficult, or even impossible to open your car's door and may also prevent your key fob from unlocking the door when you press its button.

If you find yourself in this situation you might need to lubricate your lock with a penetrating catalyst or WD-40 to loosen it. These products can be bought at home improvement centers or at auto supply stores. You can attach them to the lock with a flathead or other thin object you can stick into your keyhole to gain access to the mechanism. If you are unable to insert the key or key fob to lubricate the lock out car this way, try wiggling it back and forth using needle-nosed pliers.

A broken link between the lock's cylinder or the interior locking switch/post and car latch is another frequent cause of vehicle locks out. This can be caused by extreme weather or due to the continuous use of the lock and could cause you to be incapable of opening the door of your vehicle and gain access to your items.

To avoid this, you can keep the spare car key in a secure location and change the battery in your key fob regularly to make it last longer. Some automakers offer download applications that allow you to remotely unlock your car if it's locked, so be sure to check with your manufacturer to find out whether they offer one.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Batteries are used to power key fobs for cars and they can run out of power. This problem can be solved by simply replacing the batteries. If your car's key fob isn't working at all, this could indicate that something else is wrong. Check the manual for your car when you're experiencing this issue.

If your car's key fob doesn't work and you don't have a spare, consider calling a locksmith to assist you with accessing your vehicle. Many of these services offer emergency lockout assistance and may be able to assist you gain access to your car without the need to pay for a tow or any other recovery services.

You could also try using a key to open the door of your car door opener. The driver's door of most newer cars has a hidden slot for keys. It is usually behind the handle cover. Make use of the mechanical key for opening the door, and the fob to start the vehicle (if needed). Certain manufacturers have a backup system built into their car that allows you to start your vehicle by using an unresponsive fob.

Being locked out of your vehicle is never fun but it is especially stressful when it happens in an unfamiliar area. The best way to stop this from happening is to keep a spare key safe at home, or with a trusted friend, and to change the battery on your key fob frequently. Additionally, you can attempt to improve your ability to find your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit an unique signature which you can connect to a phone application. This 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 dirt, grime and other debris can accumulate in your car's locks which can cause them to become jammed and prevent you from opening your door. To prevent this from happening it is recommended that you lubricate the locks and hinges of your car at least twice a yearly with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

A spare key is a good option to avoid a car lockout. You can do this by putting a spare key in your wallet or purse, leaving one with a family member or giving a set to your valet if you live in an apartment. Additionally you should keep the number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will save you money and stress should you ever get locked out of the vehicle.

Many automakers provide roadside assistance to assist motorists gain access to their car in a lockout car service scenario. 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 resolve the issue.

If you're looking for a professional and reliable towing company, contact Richman Automotive & Towing today!

It's never a good thing to find yourself in a car lockout situation. Fortunately, there are many quick solutions to this problem. It is also beneficial to have an extra car key and know who to call if you require assistance. Visit us online to learn more. We're happy to answer any questions you might have. We are looking forward to working with you! We can be reached at (301) 7777-1877.