Why Vehicle Lock Out Is Your Next Big Obsession
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 ensure you keep a spare car key in a secure place.
This article outlines some of the common causes of car lockout and offers some simple DIY techniques, like using a modified wire coat hanger to unlock your car's door.
1. You've lost your keys
It's a nightmare scenario for any car owner: you're about to make errands, but you leave keys on the seat or in the ignition. Then you're locked outside because your door locks by itself. This is the most typical reason for locking out of vehicles. It's a good idea to keep a spare car key in a safe place.
Don't be worried. It may seem as if you've failed but it isn't. The majority of roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers provide locksmith services for cars, and they're trained to unlock almost every vehicle quickly. They can also assist you to determine the cause of the problem with the car's lock so that you can prevent repeating the same issue in the future.
Another method to avoid having your 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 forget your keys in a hurry. You can also search for them in the usual places, but don't try to hide them. Thieves are clever and might have thought of all the typical places to hide.
You might be able to use an application that can turn your smartphone into an electronic key fob, based on the manufacturer of your car. This is particularly useful if you've lost your keys or have left them in the car, and it's available for most modern automobiles. Check the website of your automaker to determine if it offers an app, and how to install it. You should also check with your insurance provider to determine whether you're covered in event that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually is covered in these instances, however the exact terms and coverage amount could differ.
2. Your Transponder Keys have failed
In the world of modern automobiles there's nothing more frustrating than being locked out of your vehicle. With the assistance of a professional, this problem can be resolved quickly, and without a lot of hassle.
Transponder keys are now a common feature in all automobiles, since they provide greater security and functionality. Like all electronic devices, transponder keys may have issues and malfunctions from time to moment. Therefore, locked keys car to understand what signs your transponder keys are failing so you can have it repaired immediately.
The most typical sign that your transponder key isn't working is when it ceases to function in your car's lock. This can happen for various reasons. For instance, it could be due to the microchip in the key is not working properly or due to 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 metal at the bottom of the key becoming worn or dull. This could cause interference with the signal.
If this is the case Try a different key and check if it works. Examine if there's something in the vicinity that could be blocking the signal. If you still have problems with your key, contact a locksmith that specializes in keys for vehicles. They can test it and perhaps fix it. They'll be able to inform you precisely what's causing your transponder key to fail and the best way to fix it. In most instances, your locksmith will be able reprogram your key to enable it to function again in your vehicle.
3. Your car's lock is stuck
A jammed or blocked locking mechanism is the reason of many car door lockouts. Over time dirt, rust and other impurities may build in the lock, causing it to jam. This could make it difficult, if not impossible, to open the door of your car and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door after you press its button.
If you find yourself in this situation it is possible to lubricate your lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyst in order to unjam it. These items can be found at home improvement centers or at auto supply stores. You can apply them to the lock with flatheads or another thin object that you can put into your keyhole to gain access to the mechanism. If you are unable insert the key or the key fob into the lock and then lubricate it by this method, try wriggling the mechanism with needle-nose pliers until it feels free.
A damaged link between the lock cylinder the interior locking switch/post and car latch is a common reason why locks on vehicles fail. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather or by the constant use of the lock, and can result in your being incapable of opening your car's door and access your belongings.
One way to avoid this problem is to always keep a spare key somewhere secure and to replace the battery of your key fob regularly so that it lasts longer. Certain automakers have applications that can be downloaded to unlock your car remotely if it is locked. Contact your automaker to find out if a solution is available.
4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died
Batteries power key fobs for cars and can be depleted of power. Fortunately, you can usually solve this issue by replacing the batteries. If your car key fob doesn't work at all, it could indicate that something else is wrong. Refer to the manual of your car if you're experiencing this problem.
If you have lost your car keys and don't own an extra contact a locksmith for help. A lot of locksmiths offer emergency lockouts and are able help you gain entry to your vehicle without having to pay a tow service or other recovery services.
You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock your car. The majority of newer cars come with a key slot hidden on the driver's side of the door, which is typically found 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 an emergency system built into their vehicles that allows you to start your vehicle by using an unresponsive fob.
It's never fun being locked out of your car particularly when it happens in a strange place. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key somewhere safe at home, or with a trusted friend and to change the battery in your key fob regularly. You can also improve the ability to locate your keys by investing a Bluetooth tracker. They emit a unique signature that can be connected to a smartphone app. This could be extremely helpful in finding your keys if they are lost or have been misplaced.
5. Your car's lock has accumulated dirt
Over time, grime and dirt can build up in your car's lock, which could cause it to become blocked and stop you from opening the door. To avoid this, you should be sure to lubricate the hinges and locks of your car at least once a year with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.
Another way to prevent a vehicle lock out is to always keep an extra key on hand. You can do this by keeping the spare key in your purse or wallet or leaving it with a friend or family member, or donating a set to your valet if live in an apartment building. Additionally you should keep the contact number of your locksmith in your wallet. This will spare you much stress and money in the event you are locked out of your vehicle.
Many automakers also provide roadside assistance services to assist drivers in regaining access to their vehicles in a lockout situation. This includes GM’s OnStar service that has been around for years, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. If none of these options are available, you should call a local towing company to resolve the issue.
If you're looking for a trustworthy and reliable towing service, contact Richman Automotive & Towing today!
It's never a good idea to be in a car lockout situation. There are plenty of quick solutions to this issue. It is also beneficial to have a spare car key and know who to contact if you need assistance. Visit us online to find out more. We're happy to answer any of your questions. We are looking forward to working with you! You can also give us an email at (301) the 777-1877.