Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
A vehicle lockout can be a stressful and frightening experience that can occur to anyone. To avoid this, have a spare key on hand and keep it somewhere safe.
This article examines the most common reasons for car lockouts and provides simple DIY solutions, such as using a modified coat hanger to open your car's doors.
1. You've lost your keys
It's a nightmare scenario 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 stuck outside. This is the most common reason for locking out of vehicles. It's a good idea to keep a spare car key in a secure location.
It could appear like a complete failure, but don't worry. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers provide locksmith services and are trained to
unlock car door service nearly any vehicle swiftly. They can also help identify the issue with the lock on your vehicle so you can stop it from repeating itself in the future.
Another way to prevent a car lockout is by keeping your keys in a purse, backpack or other bag you take with you on every trip. This way you're less likely to lose them in an instant. You can also search for them in the most common locations, but be careful not to try to hide them. Thieves are smart and might have considered all the usual hiding spots.
You might be able to use an application that turns your smartphone in the role of a key fob, based on the car manufacturer. This is particularly useful if you've lost your keys or put them in your vehicle, and it's available for the majority of modern automobiles. Visit the website of your automaker to find out if they've got an app and how to install it. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered in the event that you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance typically covers these situations, though exact terms and coverage amounts could differ.
2. Your Transponder Keys Have Failed
In the world of modern vehicles there aren't many things more frustrating than being locked out of your car. Luckily, with the assistance of a skilled locksmith, this problem can be resolved quickly and without a lot of hassle.
Transponder keys are now a common feature in many automobiles because they offer more security and function. Like any electronic device, transponder keys aren't without fault and malfunction from time to time. It is important to recognize the signs that your transponder is not functioning properly to ensure that you get it serviced immediately.
The most frequent sign that your transponder key isn't working is when it stops working in your car's lock. It could be due to many different reasons. For example, it may be because the microchip inside 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 bottom part of the key is worn down or dull, which can interfere with the signal from the radio.
If this is the case Try another key and see if that works. Examine if there's something in the vicinity that could hinder the signal. If you still have problems with your key, you should contact a locksmith that specializes in keys for vehicles. They'll be able to test the key and repair it. They will be able identify the issue that caused your transponder to fail and
how to open a car door without a key to fix the issue. In the majority of instances locksmiths are capable of reprogramming the key so that it functions in your vehicle again.
3. Your Car's Lock is Jammed
A jammed or blocked locking mechanism is the root of many car door lockouts. Over time, rust and dirt can accumulate inside the lock, which causes it to jam. This can make it difficult, even impossible, to open the door of your car and can also block your key fob from unlocking the door when you press the button.
It is possible to grease the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser in order to free it from jamming. These products can be found at auto supply shops or home improvement stores. They can be sprayed on the lock using a flathead screwdriver, or any other thin object that you could put into the keyhole in order to access the mechanism behind it. If you cannot insert the key or key fob into the lock and lubricate it this way, try wiggling the mechanism with needle-nose pliers until you feel free.
A broken link between the lock cylinder interior locking switch/post and the car latch is a common reason why locks on vehicles fail. Extreme weather conditions or constant use of the lock may cause this. You will then be unable to open the car door and gain access to your belongings.
To avoid this issue, you can keep an extra car key in a secure place and replace the battery on your key fob on a regular basis to make it last longer. Some automakers even offer downloadable applications that allow you to remotely unlock your car if it's locked. Be sure to inquire with the manufacturer to determine whether they offer one.
4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died
Car key fobs require batteries to function and, sometimes, they run out of juice. This issue can be fixed by changing the batteries. If your car's key fob doesn't work in any way, it could be an indication that something else is wrong. Consult the manual of your car when you're experiencing this issue.
If your car key fob doesn't work and you don't have a spare, think about calling a locksmith to assist you with accessing your vehicle. A lot of locksmiths offer emergency lockout services and may be able to help you gain access to your vehicle without the need to pay for a tow or another recovery service.
You can also use a physical key to unlock your vehicle. The driver's door on most newer cars has a hidden slot for keys. It is usually under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door. You can also use the fob to push the start button (if necessary). Some manufacturers have an emergency system built into their cars that allow you to start your car with dead fob.
It's never fun to be locked out of your vehicle, especially when it happens in a remote area. The best way to avoid this from happening is to keep a spare key safe at home, or with a trusted friend and to change the battery in your key fob on a regular basis. You can also improve the ability to locate your keys by investing a Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be connected to a mobile application. This can be very helpful in finding your keys in case they get lost or are not found.
5. Your car door lockout (
200.111.45.106)'s Lock has Ample Dirt
Over time dirt, grime and other particles can build up in the locks of your car and cause them to jam and prevent you from opening your door. To prevent this from happening, it is important to grease your locks and hinges at a minimum of twice a year with either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
Another way to prevent the loss of your vehicle lock is to always have an extra key in your possession. You can do this in a variety of ways. You can carry a spare in your wallet or purse. You can also leave it with a family member or friend. Or, you can offer a set to the valet of your apartment if it's an apartment complex. You should also have the number of your local locksmith on hand. This will save you a lot of stress and money in the event you are locked out of your vehicle.
Many automakers offer roadside assistance that can help users gain access to their car in case of lockout. This includes GM's enduring OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service, and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options are available, call a towing company in your area to resolve the problem.
Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing company you need for dependable and professional service.