15 Interesting Facts About Vehicle Lock Out That You've Never Heard Of

Vehicle Lock Out – Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key Anyone can experience the stress of a vehicle lockout. To avoid this make sure you keep a spare key in a safe place. This article explores some common causes of car lockout and provides some easy DIY techniques, like using a modified coat hanger made of wire to open the door of your car. 1. You've Forgotten Your Keys You're preparing to run errands when you have forgotten your keys in the ignition or on the seat. You're stuck outside after your door locks by itself. This is the most typical reason behind vehicle lockouts. It's a good idea to keep a spare car key in a secure place. It might appear like a complete failure, but don't worry. Many roadside assistance programs as well as auto wreckers provide locksmith services for cars, and they're trained to unlock nearly any vehicle swiftly. They can also help you identify the issue with the lock on your car to prevent it happening again in future. Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag while you travel. You're less likely forget the keys if you use this method. You can also look for them in common locations, but don't attempt to hide them. Thieves are able to be clever and might have already come up with the most commonly used hiding spots. Based on the car's manufacturer depending on the manufacturer of your car, you could be able to utilize an application which turns your smartphone into the key fob. This is especially useful if you've lost your keys or put them in your vehicle, and it's available for all modern automobiles. Visit the website of your car manufacturer to determine if they offer an application and how to install it. Check with your insurance provider to find out if you're covered in the event that you lock your keys inside your car. Roadside assistance typically covers these kinds of situations. However the specific conditions and coverage amounts may vary. 2. Your transponder keys are not working. In the world of modern automobiles there's nothing more frustrating than getting locked out of your car. Fortunately, with the assistance of a professional locksmith, this issue can be solved quickly and with minimal hassle. Transponder keys are now common feature in many automobiles because they offer more security and function. Like any electronic device, transponder keys aren't without fault and malfunctions from time to moment. As such, it's important to understand what signs your transponder key is failing so you can have 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 variety of factors. It could be that 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 or dull, which can interfere with the RF signal. If this is the situation, try another key to determine if it works in your car's lock. Look for any obstruction nearby that could hinder the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, you could always contact a locksmith who specializes in vehicle transponder keys to test it and possibly repaired. They will be able identify the issue that caused your transponder's malfunction and the best way to fix the problem. In most instances, a locksmith will be in a position to reprogram your key so that it can work in your car again. 3. car lockouts is Jammed A jammed or blocked locking mechanism is the root of many car door lockouts. Over time, dirt and rust build up inside your lock, which causes it to become jammed. This could make it difficult even impossible, to open your car's door and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door when you press its button. You may need to lubricate the lock with WD-40 or a penetrating catalyser to free it from jamming. These products are available in auto supply stores or at home improvement stores. They can be glued to the lock using a flathead or other thin object that you can stick in your keyhole to access the mechanism. If you are unable to insert the key or the key fob into the lock and then lubricate it this way, try wiggling the mechanism back and forth using needle-nose pliers until you feel free. Another common cause of vehicle lockouts is a broken link between the door handle, lock cylinder or interior locking post/switch and the door latch for your car. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or by the constant 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 To avoid this, keep the spare car key in a safe location and change the battery on your key fob on a regular basis to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers even offer downloadable apps that can be used to remotely unlock your car if it's locked, so be sure to check with your manufacturer to see if they have one available. 4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died Car key fobs use batteries to function, and at times they are not able to provide juice. Fortunately, you can usually resolve this issue by replacing the batteries. If, however, your car key fob doesn't work at all, it could be a sign something else is not working properly. Consult the manual of your vehicle in case you're experiencing this issue. If you've lost your car keys and don't have an extra call locksmiths for help. Many of these services provide emergency lockouts and may be in a position to help you gain access to your vehicle without paying for towing or other recovery services. You can also try using a physical key to open your car door. Most newer vehicles have a hidden key slot on the driver's side of the door, which is typically hidden behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and use the fob to push the start button (if it is required). Certain manufacturers have built-in backup systems that allow you to start your car using a dead key. Being locked out of your vehicle is never enjoyable and can be particularly frustrating when it happens in a strange place. Keep your spare car keys at home or with trusted family members and change the battery of your key fob on a regular basis. You can also enhance the ability to locate your keys by purchasing in a Bluetooth tracker. They emit a unique signature which can be connected to a smartphone application. This can be very helpful in finding your keys in case they get lost or have been misplaced. 5. Your car's lock has accumulated dirt Over time, dirt, grime, and other particles can build up within the locks of your car and cause them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To avoid this it is crucial to lubricate your locks and hinges at least once every year using either WD-40 or penetrating catalyst. A spare key is an additional option to avoid a car lockout. You can do this by keeping the spare key in your wallet or purse or leaving it with a friend or family member or by giving one to your valet if you live in an apartment. In addition, you should also keep the contact number of your locksmith on hand. This will help you save money and stress should you ever need to get locked out of the vehicle. Many automakers also offer roadside assistance to help drivers regain access to their vehicles following an emergency lockout. This includes GM's OnStar service, which has been around for years, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. However, if none of these options are available, you should call a local towing company to resolve the issue. Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing service you need for dependable and professional service. It's never a good thing to be caught locked out of your car. There are a variety of quick solutions to this issue. A spare key should be kept in your pocket and knowing who to contact to get help is always helpful, as well. Visit us online to learn more. We will be happy to answer all of your questions. We look forward working with you. You can also contact us at (301) 7777-1877.