Five Auto Lock Out Lessons Learned From Professionals
Why You May Get Locked Out of Your Auto
It could be more than an inconvenience. It can also be dangerous.
There are a variety of methods to allow you access to your vehicle without causing damage. The most basic method to avoid being locked out is to have a spare key.
1. Locked Out of Your Car
Being locked out of your car isn't just frustrating however, it can also be dangerous. There are a variety of reasons that could cause you to be locked out, and it is important to understand the causes. If you know what to look out for it will help you avoid future issues.
Modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems that can detect attempts to break into their system. This is a blessing but also a curse, since it may sometimes prevent you from having access to your car even when your keys are inside it. This can happen when you are juggling your coffee cup, phone and briefcase as you approach the door of the driver. This could trigger the key fob to automatically lock your doors as you attempt to open them.
It is better to seek roadside assistance if in this kind of situation, rather than attempt to open the lock using improvised tools such as hanging string or hanger. A professional locksmith can help you avoid damaging your vehicle and offer a quick fix.
Over time, filth and other impurities may build into your lock and jam it. This can also occur if the door is damaged by an accident or some other incident. These circumstances could render your key fob and other security mechanisms useless, and you will be unable to enter your car.
Certain automakers have a downloadable app you can use to unlock your car in case of emergency. GM provides this service through its OnStar subscription, and BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Hyundai have similar apps. These tools can be useful, but should only be utilized when all other options have been exhausted.
2. Lost Keys
The loss of keys is one of the most frequent reasons for getting locked out. unlock car keys to misplace a key or leave it in a hurry, or when you're distracted. You can prevent this kind of lockout if you have a spare or backup key.
If you have an extra key, make sure it's stored in a secure place that only you or someone else you trust access. You can keep a keyfinder on your keychain or in your car to locate your keys quickly and easily. These devices emit an alarm to assist you in finding your keys. You can also make use of an application on your smartphone to track the location your car's keyfob.
Another possibility is that you have lost your car keys because it was stolen. If this is the case, you should always file a police report, which will leave an official trail of evidence and help your insurance company provide compensation in the event of an incident of theft.
Sometimes, the locks of your car get damaged because of natural wear and tear or rust over time, making them difficult to open. This is especially the case for older models, that require you to manually insert the key into the lock. There are DIY methods to unlock your car, like using Slim Jims or coat hangers, however, these could damage the door locks, leading to costly repairs.
3. Broken Keys
Keys are designed to withstand a lot of force, excessive use can result in wear and tear that eventually weakens the metal. This could result in broken pieces of keys that are stuck in your lock. Fortunately, it is possible to remove them using a few basic tools, or at the very least free the rest of your key with little damage to the lock mechanism.
If only a small part of the broken key protrudes from the lock, it can be removed using a pair of needle nose pliers. If the broken part is buried deep within the lock it is likely that a flathead or a small tool will be required. It's important to keep in mind that the extraction process could require several attempts and patience. If you're not patient enough you could accidentally push the damaged key into the lock, causing even more damage.
You can make use of a small saw-blade that is available at many hardware stores to cut off broken keys. This procedure must be carried out with extreme care and precision to ensure that the lock cylinder is not damaged. If the other methods don't work then you might 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 place, such as at an gas station or convenience store, or restaurants.
If you have to resort to this method, try to find a public place where you can wait for the locksmith to arrive. Do not stand in a deserted road, parking deck or lot where you might be targeted by thieves. If you can, contact the locksmith on your phone when you're in a secure location and ask whether they'll meet you there to assist with the removal.
4. Damaged Transponder or Key Fob
Car key fobs, like any other electronic device, could malfunction over time. This could pose a huge problem for vehicle owners, as it means they'll not be able to start their vehicles or open their doors. If this happens, it's essential to speak with a professional locksmith to troubleshoot the issue.
One of the most frequent indicators that your transponder or key fob is malfunctioning is when it doesn't start your engine. This could be due to many reasons, including an unresponsive battery or an issue with the key fob chip.
You can solve the issue by replacing the batteries on your fob. If this isn't working, you might need to visit an automotive shop or a dealership in your area to get the chip or key fob replaced.
Another reason you might be experiencing an issue with your key fob could be due to physical damage. This could be caused by a cracked or broken key shell, worn out contacts, or any other issue that affect the internal function of the key fob. It's important to have the key replaced or repaired as soon as possible, as it can also cause other issues with your vehicle.
It's an absolute nightmare to be locked out of your vehicle It's crucial to make sure this doesn't happen again. Avoiding this problem can be accomplished by creating a routine where you double-check that you have your keys when you exit your vehicle. You can also help you to get into your vehicle by keeping a spare set in an easily accessible, safe location. Contact us to schedule an appointment with locksmiths if you've encountered any of these problems with your keys or locks.
5. You've accidentally threw your keys in the lock.
It's easy to forget your keys in the car while you're on the move during an extremely busy day. Keep calm and determine how you got locked out of your car. Remembering what you did can aid you in avoiding an identical situation in the future.
It is recommended to keep a spare set of keys in your possession to avoid accidentally locking them inside. This could mean storing it in a place that you or someone you trust to access quickly, having a friend keep a spare key at their home or at work or using a lockout kit. Some automakers provide services that let you unlock your car remotely. However, these typically require an annual subscription.
You can also call a roadside assistance service, like AAA or the roadside assistance program of your automaker. Moody says that these services are often able to come to your aid for a fixed fee. Some automakers offer these programs to owners for free, such as GM's OnStar and Mercedes-Benz Mbrace.
Contacting local authorities is an option if have a spare key or have a roadside service plan. Be sure to only contact emergency services when you or someone else is in danger. In the event of a mishap, you could be subject to penalties or legal action for misusing emergency services. It is also essential to determine the need for assistance before you call for help in order to determine what solution is the most effective. To avoid being locked out of your car in the future. Make sure to check everything before you get back inside and try to avoid rushing when exiting your vehicle. This will help ensure that you don't leave any doors or windows unlocked and can protect your car from damage during transport in the event that it needs to be transported to a different location.