Why You May Get Locked Out of Your Auto

Getting locked out of your car can be more than an inconvenience. It can be a risk.

There are a variety of techniques that can help you get back into your vehicle without causing damage. The most basic method to avoid being locked out is to keep an extra key.

1. You're locked out of your car

Being locked out of your vehicle isn't just frustrating, but it can be risky. There are a myriad of reasons you may get locked out, and it's essential to be aware of the reasons. If you know what to look out for, this can help prevent any future issues.

The majority of modern vehicles have advanced security systems that detect any attempt to breach their system. This is both a blessing and curse, because you may not be able to enter your vehicle if your keys are locked in the car. This could happen when you're trying to balance your phone, coffee cup, and briefcase while approaching the driver's door. The key fob could be triggered to lock your doors when you attempt to open them.

It's better to call roadside assistance if in this type of situation rather than attempt to open the lock with an improvised tool like hanging string or hanger. A professional locksmith can assist you in avoiding damaging your vehicle and provide a quick fix.

Over time, dirt and other impurities can build up in your lock and jam it. It can also happen when the door is damaged in an accident or another event. This could render your key fob or other security devices useless, and you won't be able to get back into the car.

Some automakers have a unique application that you can download to unlock your vehicle in an emergency. GM provides this service as part of its OnStar subscription. BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai have similar apps. These tools are useful, but they should only be used as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted.

2. Lost Keys

Keys are lost is one of the most frequent reasons for locking yourself out. It's easy to misplace a key or leave it in a hurry or while distracted. You can avoid this type of lockout by having an extra key or backup.

If you have an extra key, store it in a secure location where only you or someone you trust can access it. You can keep an electronic key keeper in your vehicle or on your keychain to easily locate your keys. These devices emit an alarm to help you find your keys. You can also use a smartphone application that tracks the location of your car's keyfob.

Another possibility is that you have lost your car keys because it was stolen. You should always make a report to the police if this is the case. This will result in a record on paper that could assist you in getting compensation from your insurance company in the event of theft.

The locks of your car may become more difficult to open due to rust or normal wear. This is especially true with older models that require you to manually insert a key into the lock. While there are DIY methods to unlock your car like using coat hangers or Slim Jims, they can damage the door locks and eventually cause costly repairs The best option is to wait for roadside assistance.

3. Broken Keys

Keys are designed to endure a lot of force, but excessive use can cause the metal to weaken. This can result in broken pieces of keys getting stuck in your lock. You can easily remove them using some basic tools, or at least free up the rest of the key without causing damage to the lock mechanism.

If only a small part of the damaged key is protruding from the lock it can be removed with a pair needle nose pliers. If the broken piece is lodged deep inside the lock the flathead or another small tool will be required. It's important to keep in mind that the extraction process could take several attempts and patience. If you're impatient you may accidentally push the damaged key even further into the lock and cause further damage.

A more extreme home-grown method for removing broken keys involves using the small saw blade that is available at many hardware stores. However, this should be used with extreme care and sensitivity to keep the cylinder of the lock from being damaged. If all other methods fail you may have to drill the lock cylinder in order to get it open. This is not recommended unless you are able to do it in a safe location, such as a gas station or convenience store restaurant.

If you have to use this method, you need to find an area where you can stay until the locksmith arrives. Avoid staying on a vacant parking lot, street or deck where you may be targeted by thieves. The locksmith should meet you at a secure place if you can.

4. Key fob or transponder damaged

As with all electronic devices, car key cut near me open now fobs and transponders can be prone to malfunction over time. This could be a huge issue for car owners since they won't be able to start their car or unlock their door. If this happens, it's essential to speak with a professional locksmith to solve the problem.

One of the most obvious indications that your key fob or transponder is not working is when it doesn't turn on your engine. This can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the battery being dead or an issue with the key fob chip.

To resolve this issue problem, you can try replacing the batteries in your fob key. If this doesn't help, you may need to visit a local auto shop or dealership to get the chip or fob replaced.

Another reason you might be experiencing an issue with your key fob could be due to physical damage. It could be caused by a damaged or cracked key shell, worn-out contacts, or any other issue that could affect the internal function of your key fob. It is essential to get it repaired or replaced in the earliest time possible, as it can also result in other issues with your vehicle.

Being locked out of your vehicle is a terrifying scenario, and it's important to take steps to avoid it from happening again in the future. To avoid this issue, it can be achieved by creating routines that ensure that you have your keys when you leave your vehicle. It can also make it easier for you to get into your vehicle by keeping a spare set in an accessible, secure location. Contact us to make an appointment with locksmiths if you've had any of these issues with your keys or locks.

5. Accidentally Leave Your Keys Inside

When you're rushing around, it's easy to leave your keys in the vehicle. If you get locked out of your car opening service, keep calm and figure out how you ended up in this situation. You can avoid a repeat of the same situation by remembering what you did.

It is recommended to keep an extra set of keys in your possession to ensure that you don't accidentally lock them inside. You can put it in a safe place where you or someone who you trust is able to access easily or have a trusted friend keep one at office or home, or employ an instrument for locking out. Some automakers also offer services that allow you to unlock your vehicle remotely, G28 though these usually require an annual subscription.

You can also contact an emergency roadside service like AAA or the roadside assistance program offered by your automaker. Moody states that these assistance programs can often help you out at a cost of a flat fee. Certain automakers, like GM's OnStar service and Mercedes-Benz's Mbrace, offer these programs for free to their owners.

If you don't have an extra key or roadside assistance plan calling local authorities could be a good alternative. However, you should only call emergency services if you or others are in danger. You may be fined or face legal action if you misuse emergency services. It is also essential to determine the urgency of the situation prior to when you begin calling for help, as this will determine which solution will be most suitable. Be careful not to rush out of your vehicle and making sure you check everything prior to getting inside will prevent being locked out again in the future. This will ensure you don't leave any doors or windows unlocked and can keep your car safe from damage during transit should it need to be transported to a new location.