Why Vehicle Lock Out Is The Right Choice For You
Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key
Locking out your vehicle is a stressful experience that can happen to anyone. To prevent this from happening make sure you keep a spare key in a secure place.
This article explores the most common reasons for car lockouts and offers some easy DIY solutions, like using a modified coat hanger to unlock your car's doors.
1. You've Forgotten Your Keys
It's a nightmare for any car owner: you're about make errands, but you forget your keys on the seat or in the ignition. Then, before you know it your door locks automatically and you're trapped outside. This is one of the most frequent causes for vehicle lock outs, and a good reason to always keep a spare key safe.
It might appear like a complete failure, but don't panic. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers provide locksmith services and are trained to unlock almost any vehicle swiftly. They can also assist you to identify the issue with your car's lock so you can prevent it from repeating itself in the future.
Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag while you travel. That way you're less likely to lose your keys in the midst of. You can also look for them in the most common spots, but do not attempt to hide them. Thieves know how to be clever and might have already come up with the most commonly used hiding spots.
Depending on your car's manufacturer, you may have the option of using an application that turns your smartphone into an electronic key fob. This is a great option in the event that you've lost your keys, or are still in the car. It's a feature that is available on all modern cars. Visit the website of your automaker to find out if they've got an app and how to set it up. Check with your insurance provider to determine if you're covered if you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance usually will cover these scenarios. However, the exact terms and coverage amounts can differ.
2. Your Transponder Keys have failed
There aren't many things that are more than a hassle when it comes to modern automobiles than being locked out. Luckily with the assistance of a professional locksmith, this issue can be solved quickly and without much hassle.
Transponder keys are now a standard feature in many cars because they offer increased security and function. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys may have issues and malfunctions from time time. It's important to know the indicators that your transponder is failing to ensure that you get it serviced immediately.
If your transponder keys cease to work in the car keys locked in car lock it is a typical sign. This can happen for various reasons. It could be because the microchip inside the key is not working properly or because there is a problem with the RF signal that is transmitted between the chip and the computer in your car's system. Another possibility is that the bottom part of the key is worn down or dull, which could interfere with the signal from the radio.
If this is the case, try using another key to determine whether it works inside the lock of your car. You should also ensure that there's not an object in the vicinity that blocks the signal. If you're having trouble with your key, you could seek out a locksmith that specializes in vehicle transponder keys to test it and possibly repaired. They can identify the issue that caused the transponder to malfunction and how to fix the problem. In the majority of instances your locksmith will be able reprogram your key to enable it to function again in your vehicle.
3. Your car's lock is jammed
A blocked or jammed locking mechanism is the root of many car door lockouts. Over time, dirt and rust build up inside your lock, making it block. This can make it difficult, if not impossible, to open the door of your car and may also prevent your key fob from unlocking the door after you press its button.
If you are in this position you might need to grease your lock with penetrating catalysts or WD-40 to loosen it. These products are available at auto lock out supply shops or at home improvement stores. They can be sprayed on the lock using a flathead screwdriver or another small object that you can stick into your keyhole to reach the mechanism behind it. If you are unable to insert the key fob or key key and apply lubrication to the lock using this method, try wriggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.
Another common cause of vehicle lockout is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder, or the interior locking switch/post/switch and the door latch of the car. Extreme weather conditions or constant use of the lock may cause this. Then, you will be unable to open your car door and gain access to your belongings.
One way to avoid this issue is to always keep a spare key secure and to replace the battery of your key fob regularly to make sure it lasts longer. Certain automakers have apps that you can download to allow remote unlocking of your vehicle in case it is locked. Contact your manufacturer to find out if a solution is available.
4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died
Batteries power key fobs for cars and they are prone to running out of power. Luckily, you can resolve this issue by replacing the batteries. However, if your car door lockout key fob doesn't work at all, it could indicate that something else is wrong. Refer to the manual of your vehicle when you're experiencing this issue.
If you have lost your car keys and don't own spare keys call a locksmith for help. 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 another recovery service.
You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock your car. Most newer vehicles come with a key slot hidden 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 needed). Certain manufacturers have an emergency system built into their cars that allow you to start your car using an unresponsive fob.
Getting locked self out of car out of your vehicle is never enjoyable, and it is especially stressful when it occurs in a foreign location. 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 in your key fob on a regular basis. Additionally, you can attempt to improve the ability to locate your keys by purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a distinct signature that can be connected to an app on your smartphone, which can be very useful in locating your keys if they are lost or are not found.
5. The lock of your car has been accumulating dirt
Over time, grime and dirt build up inside your car's lock, which could cause it to get blocked and stop you from opening the door. To avoid this it is recommended that you grease the hinges and locks of your car at least once a year with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
A spare key is an additional method to avoid a lockout. You can do this in a variety of ways. You can keep an extra key in your purse or wallet. Or, you could leave one with a family member or friend. Or, you can give the set to the valet at your apartment building if it is an apartment complex. In addition to that, keep the number of your locksmith on hand. This will help you avoid a lot of stress and money in the event that you are locked out of your car.
Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services to help drivers regain access to their vehicles following an emergency lockout. This includes GM's long-standing OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service, and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options is available, call a local towing company in your area to fix the problem.
Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing company to call to get a reliable and professional service.
You should never be in the situation of being locked out of your car. There are several quick solutions to this problem. It is also beneficial to have an extra car key and be aware of who to call should you need assistance. To learn more, please visit us online today. We'll be happy to answer all of your questions. We are looking forward to working with you! You can also contact us at (301) 7777-1877.