What Is Vehicle Lock Out And How To Utilize It

Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare Key

Locking out your vehicle is a stressful event that can occur to anyone. To avoid this, always have a spare key on hand and keep it somewhere safe.

This article outlines some of the common causes of car lockout and provides some easy DIY solutions, such as using a modified wire coat hanger to open the door of your car.

1. You've lost your keys

It's a nightmare scenario for any car owner: you're about to run errands, and you forget your keys on the seat or in the ignition. You're suddenly stuck outside when your door locks itself. This is among the most common reasons for vehicle lockouts and is a great reason to always keep a spare key secure.

It may seem like a complete failure, but don't panic. The majority of roadside assistance and auto wreckers offer locksmith services and are trained to open nearly any car quickly. They can also help determine what went wrong with the lock on your vehicle to prevent repeating the same issue in the future.

Keep your keys in your purse, backpack or bag while you drive. You're less likely to lose your keys if you take this precaution. You can also look for them in the usual places, but don't attempt to hide them--thieves are smart and might have thought of all the usual places to hide.

Based on the car's manufacturer, you may be able to utilize an application that converts 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 car maker to determine if it offers an application, and how to unlock your car door without a key to install it. It is also advisable to check with your insurance company to determine whether you're covered in the event that you lock your keys inside the car. Roadside assistance usually covers these kinds of situations. However the specific details and coverage amounts could vary.

2. Your Transponder Keys Are Not Working

In the world of modern vehicles there aren't many things more frustrating than being locked out of your vehicle. Luckily, with the help of a professional locksmith, this problem can be resolved quickly and with minimal hassle.

Transponder keys have become an integral part of many automobiles due to their increased security and efficiency. Like any electronic device transponder keys may have issues and malfunction from time to time. It is important to recognize the indicators that your transponder is not functioning properly to ensure that you get it serviced immediately.

If your transponder keys stop working in the lock of your car it is a typical sign. It could be due to a variety of factors. It could be that the microchip in the key has stopped working or there is a glitch with the RF signal that is sent by the chip to the car's computer. Another possibility is that the metal at the bottom of the key lockout service becoming worn or dull. This can interfere with the signal.

If this is the situation try another key and see if that works. Also, make sure that there isn't an object in the vicinity that blocks the signal. If you're still having issues with your key, contact locksmiths that specialize in transponder keys for vehicles. They'll test it and possibly repair it. They can to identify what's causing the transponder to malfunction and the best way to fix the problem. In most cases, your locksmith will be in a position to reprogram your key and make it work again in your vehicle.

3. The lock on your car is stuck

Many car lockouts on doors can be attributed to a jammed or blocked lock mechanism. Over time, dirt, rust, and other impurities can build within your lock and cause it to block. This can make it difficult, if not impossible, to open the door of your car and could also stop your key fob from unlocking the door when you press its button.

If you find yourself in this situation it is possible to lubricate your lock using WD-40 or a penetrating catalyst to free it. These products can be found at auto supply stores or at home improvement stores. They can be put on the lock using a flathead screwdriver or another thin object that you could put into the keyhole in order to get at the mechanism behind it. If you are unable insert the key or key fob into the lock and lubricate it in this manner, try moving the mechanism back and forth using needle-nose pliers until you feel free.

A damaged link between the lock's cylinder or the post or interior locking switch and car latch is another common cause of vehicle locks out. This is sometimes caused by extreme weather or by the constant use of the lock and could cause you to be unable how to unlock your car open the door of your vehicle and gain access to your belongings.

One way to avoid this problem is to always keep a spare key secure and to replace the battery on your key fob frequently to ensure it lasts longer. Some automakers offer download apps that can be used to remotely unlock your car if it's locked, so be sure to inquire with your manufacturer to see if they have one available.

4. Your Car's Key Fob Has Died

Car key fobs require batteries to operate and sometimes they are not able to provide juice. This issue can be fixed by simply changing the batteries. If, however, your car key fob isn't working at all It could be a sign something else is wrong. Check the manual for your vehicle if you're experiencing this problem.

If your car key fob isn't working and you don't have a spare, consider hiring a locksmith to help you get into your vehicle. A lot of locksmiths offer emergency lockouts and are capable of helping you gain access to your vehicle without having to pay an additional tow fee or recovery services.

You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock car keys your car. The driver's door of most modern cars has a concealed slot for keys. It's usually located under 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 a backup system built into their cars that allow you to start your vehicle by using a dead fob.

It's not fun to be locked out of your car, especially when it happens in a strange place. Keep an extra car key at home or with trusted family members and change the battery of your key fob regularly. You can also enhance the ability to locate your keys by purchasing an Bluetooth tracker. These devices emit a unique signature that can be linked to an app on your smartphone and can be extremely helpful in locating your keys if they are lost or have been misplaced.

5. The lock of your car has been accumulating dirt

Over time dirt, grime and other debris can accumulate in the locks of your car and cause them to jam and hinder you from opening your door. To avoid this it is recommended to be sure to lubricate the hinges and locks of your car at least twice per year using WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.

Another method to avoid having the possibility of a vehicle lock being lost is to always keep a spare key on hand. You can do this by putting the spare key in your wallet or purse or leaving it with a friend or family member or giving a set to your valet, if you live in an apartment building. You should also keep the contact information of your local locksmith on hand. This will help you save money and stress if you ever need to get locked out of the vehicle.

Many automakers also offer roadside assistance services to enable drivers to access their vehicles in an incident of lockout. This includes GM's long-running OnStar service, Mercedes' Mbrace service and Hyundai Blue Link. If none of these options are available, contact a local towing service to solve the problem.

Richman Automotive & Towing is the towing company to call if you want a reliable and professional service.

It's never a good idea to be locked out of your car. Fortunately, there are many quick solutions to this issue. It is also beneficial to have an extra car key and be aware of who to call should you need assistance. Visit us online to learn more. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward working with you. We can be reached at (301) 7777-1877.