Why You May Get Locked Out of Your Auto
It could be more than just an inconvenience. It could also be dangerous.
Fortunately, there are many ways to assist you in getting back into your car without causing any damage. The most fundamental way to avoid being locked out is to keep a spare key.
1. Locked Out of Your Car
Being locked out of your car is not just a hassle, but it can be dangerous. There are a myriad of reasons you may get locked out, and it is crucial to know the reasons. Knowing what to look out for will help you avoid further issues.
Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced security systems that can identify attempts to break into their security. This is a good thing and a curse, as it can sometimes deny you access to your vehicle even if your keys are still inside it. This could happen when you juggle your phone, coffee and briefcase as you walk towards the driver's door. This could trigger the key fob to lock your doors as you go to open them.
If you are in this kind of situation you should seek help from a roadside service instead of trying to use makeshift tools like string or hangers to unlock your lock. A professional locksmith will have the right tools to avoid damaging your vehicle, and they will often offer the fastest solution.
Over time, filth, rust and other impurities can build inside the lock and cause it to become jammed. It can also happen if the door is damaged by an accident or another event. This can make your key fob or other security mechanisms ineffective, and you will be unable to reenter your car.
Certain automakers offer a specific application that can be downloaded to unlock your vehicle in an emergency. GM offers this service as part of its OnStar subscription. BMW, locked car -Benz and Hyundai have similar apps. These tools are useful however they should only be used as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted.
2. Lost Keys
Keys are lost is among the most frequent reasons for being locked out. It's easy to misplace a key or leave it somewhere in a hurry or when you're distracted. It is possible to avoid this kind of lockout if you've got a spare or backup key.
If you have an extra key, put it in a secure location in a place where only you or a person you trust can get to it. You can also keep a key finder on your keychain or in your car to locate your keys quickly and easily. The devices emit an alert to help you locate your keys. You can also utilize a smartphone application that tracks the location of your car's keysfob.
You may have lost your car keys because they were stolen. If this is the case, always file a police report, which will provide a paper trail and may help your insurance company provide compensation in the event of a theft.
Sometimes, your car's locks can develop problems due to natural wear and tear or rusting over time, making them more difficult to open. This is particularly in the case of older models which require you to manually insert the key into the lock. While there are DIY methods to unlock your car like using coat hangers or Slim Jims, they can harm the door locks and eventually cause costly repairs The best thing to do is wait for roadside assistance.
3. Broken Keys
Keys are designed to endure an enormous amount of force but overuse can cause the metal to weaken. This can result in broken pieces of keys that are stuck in your lock. You can get them out using some basic tools, or at the very least free up the remaining key without causing any damage to the lock mechanism.
If a tiny portion of your broken key is sticking out of the lock, you can usually remove it using the help of needle nose pliers. If the broken piece is buried deep within the lock, a flathead or other small tool will be required. Be aware that the removal process could require multiple attempts and patience. If you're not patient enough you may accidentally push the broken key into the lock, causing even more damage.
A more extreme home-grown method to remove broken keys involves using the small saw blade that can be purchased at most hardware stores. However, it must be done with extreme care and sensitivity to avoid harming the lock cylinder. If the other methods don't work, you may need to drill the cylinder of the lock to pry it open. This is not recommended unless you are able to do it in a safe location, like the gas station or convenience store, or restaurants.
If you are forced to use this method, locate a place where you can wait until the locksmith arrives. Avoid staying on a vacant parking lot, street or deck where you may be targeted by burglars. Request the locksmith to meet you in a secure place if you can.
4. Damaged Transponder or Key Fob
Car key fobs, as any other electronic device, may malfunction as time passes. This could be a huge issue for car owners since they will no longer be capable of starting their car or even open their door. It is essential to contact an expert locksmith to help to solve the issue.
When your key fob or transponder does not turn your engine on, this is a common sign that it is malfunctioning. This could be due to various reasons, such as the malfunctioning or dead key chip.
To solve this issue, you should try replacing the batteries in your fob's key. If this isn't working, you might need to visit an auto shop or dealership in your area to have the chip or key fob replaced.
Another reason you might be experiencing the problem with your key fob is due to physical damage. This can be caused by broken or cracked key shell, worn out contacts, or other issues that affect the internal functionality of the key fob. It is essential to get the key replaced or repaired in the earliest time possible and also result in other issues with your vehicle.
It's an absolute nightmare to be locked out of your vehicle It's crucial to ensure that this doesn't happen again. To avoid this issue, it can be done by developing routines that ensure that you have your keys at the time you exit your vehicle. You can also help you to get into your car by keeping a spare key in an easily accessible, safe location. Call us to set up an appointment with a locksmith if you've experienced any of these problems with keys or locks.
5. You may accidentally leave your keys inside
When you're running around it's easy to lose your keys in the vehicle. Be calm and try to identify the reason you locked yourself out of your car. Recalling what happened can help you avoid an identical situation in the future.
The best way to avoid the risk of accidentally locking your keys inside is to ensure that you have a spare key available. This could mean storing it somewhere that you or someone else you trust will be able to access quickly, having a friend keep a spare key at their home or at work, or using the lockout kit. Certain automakers also offer services that can unlock your car remotely, though these usually require a subscription.
Another option is calling an emergency roadside assistance company such as AAA or your automaker's roadside assistance program. They can come to your rescue for a flat fee, Moody notes. Certain automakers provide these programs to owners for free, like GM's OnStar and Mercedes-Benz Mbrace.
If you don't have an extra key or roadside assistance plan calling local authorities could be a viable alternative. However, you should only call emergency services if you or others are in danger. You could be fined or be subject to legal consequences if you use emergency services. It is also crucial to assess the need for assistance before you call for help in order to determine which solution will be most suitable. Avoid rushing out of your vehicle and checking everything before you go in to avoid being locked out again in the future. This will ensure you don't leave any doors or windows unlocked and can protect your car from damage during transit in the event that it needs to be moved to a new destination.