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Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key Everyone can feel the strain of a car lockout. To avoid this, always have a spare key and keep it in a safe place. This article outlines some of the common causes of car lockout and suggests some easy DIY techniques, like using an altered wire coat hanger to unlock the door of your car. 1. You forgot your keys It's a nightmare scenario for any car owner: you're about make errands, but 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 one of the most common reasons for vehicle lockouts and is a good reason to keep a spare key in a place that is safe. It may seem like a complete failure, but don't be worried. The majority of roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers provide locksmith services for vehicles, and they're trained to unlock nearly every vehicle quickly. They can also assist you to determine what went wrong with the lock on your car to prevent it from happening again in the future. Another way to avoid a vehicle lockout is to keeping your keys in a backpack, purse or other bag that you carry on every trip. That way you're less likely to forget your keys in an instant. You can also search for them in common locations, but be careful not to try to hide them. Thieves are smart and might have thought of all the typical hiding spots. You could be able make use of an app that transforms your smartphone in the role of a key fob, based on the car manufacturer. This is a great solution for those who have lost their keys, or if they are still in the car. It's available on most modern cars. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to find out if they've got an app and how to configure it. Check with your insurance provider to determine if you're covered when you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance usually covers these situations. However the exact details and coverage amounts could vary. 2. Your transponder keys are not working. There aren't many things that are more than a hassle when it comes to modern automobiles than being locked out. Fortunately, with the assistance of a professional locksmith, this problem can be solved quickly and without much hassle. Transponder keys are now standard in most cars, as they offer more security and function. But, just like any other electronic device, they may suffer from failures and problems at times. It is therefore important to understand what signs your transponder keys are failing to be able to get it fixed immediately. If the transponder keys stop working in the lock of your car, this is a common sign. It could be due to a number of reasons. It could be because the microchip inside the key is not functioning properly or there's a problem with the RF signal transmitted by the chip to the car's computer. Another possibility is that the bottom metal part of the key is worn out or dull, which could hinder the signal from the radio. If this is the case try a different key and see if that works. Look for any obstruction nearby that could block the signal. If you're still experiencing issues with your key, call an expert locksmith who specializes in keys for vehicles. They can test it and perhaps fix it. They'll be able tell you exactly what is causing your transponder keys to fail and the best way to fix it. In most cases locksmiths are in a position to reprogram your key and make it work again in your vehicle. 3. Your car's lock is jammed
If you are in this situation you might need to lubricate your lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyst to loosen it. These items can be found at home improvement centers or auto supply shops. You can attach them to the lock using flatheads or any other thin object you can stick into your keyhole to gain access to the mechanism. If you are unable to insert the key fob or key key and apply lubrication to the lock this way, try wiggling it back and forth using needle-nosed pliers. A broken link between the lock cylinder the post or interior locking switch and car latch is a common reason for locking your vehicle out. Extreme weather conditions or continuous use of the lock could cause this. You will then be unable open the car door and gain access to your belongings. One way to avoid this problem is to always keep a spare key somewhere safe and to replace the battery on your key fob regularly so that it lasts longer. Some automakers offer download apps that can be used to remotely unlock your car when it's locked. Be sure to check with your manufacturer to find out if they have one available. 4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died Car key fobs use batteries to operate and sometimes they are not able to provide juice. This issue can be resolved by changing the batteries. However, if your car key fob isn't working at all it could indicate that something else is not working properly. If you're experiencing this issue, you should consult the manual for your vehicle to determine what other steps you could take. 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. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockout services and could be able to help gain access to your car without the need to pay for a tow or another recovery services. You can also utilize a physical key to unlock your car. The driver's side door of many newer vehicles has a hidden slot for keys. It is usually under the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and the fob to start the vehicle (if needed). Some manufacturers have built-in backup systems that allow you to start your car with dead keys. It's not fun to be locked out of your car, especially when it happens in a remote location. The best way to stop this from happening is to keep a spare key secure at home or with a trusted friend and to change the battery in your key fob regularly. In addition, you can try to improve your ability to find your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be connected to an app on your smartphone and can be extremely useful 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 stuck and stop you from opening the door. To avoid this it is recommended to be sure to lubricate the hinges and locks of your vehicle at least twice per year with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst. Another way to prevent the possibility of a vehicle lock being lost is to always have an extra key on hand. You can accomplish this in several ways. You can keep a spare in your wallet or purse. Or, you can leave it with an individual from your family or a friend. Or, you could give the set to the valet of your apartment building if it's an apartment complex. You should also have the contact number of the locksmith you can contact. This will help you save money and stress should you ever need to get locked out of your vehicle. Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing company to call if you want a reliable and professional service. You shouldn't ever be in a situation where you are locked out of your vehicle. There are several quick solutions to this issue. It is also beneficial to have an extra car key and be aware of who to call should you require assistance. Visit us online to learn more. We'll be glad to answer any of your questions. We look forward to working with you. You can also contact us at (301) 7777-1877. |
