Why You May Get Locked Out of Your Auto

It could be more than a nuisance. It could be dangerous.

Fortunately, there are several ways to help you get back into your car without causing any damage. Keep the spare car keys in your vehicle. This is the most basic way to avoid a lockout.

1. Locked Out of Your Car

It can be dangerous to be locked out of your vehicle. You could be locked out for a variety of reasons, and it's important to understand the reasons. If you know what to look out for, this can help prevent future problems.

Most modern cars have technically advanced security systems that detect any attempt to break their security system. This is both a blessing and curse, because you may not be able to access your vehicle if your keys are locked inside. This can happen when you juggle your phone, coffee, and briefcase as you enter the driver's side door. The key fob could be triggered to close your doors if you attempt to open them.

It's better to call roadside assistance if you are in this kind of situation, rather than try to open the lock using homemade tools like hangers or strings. A professional locksmith has the proper tools to avoid damaging your vehicle, and they can often provide you with a quick solution.

Over time, filth and other impurities can build into your lock and jam it. This is also the case when your door is damaged by an accident or another event. These circumstances can make your key fob or other security mechanisms ineffective, and you will be unable to enter your car.

Certain automakers offer a specific application that you can download to unlock your vehicle in case of emergency. GM provides this service through its OnStar subscription, and BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Hyundai also offer similar apps. These tools are useful but should only be utilized after all other options have been exhausted.

2. Lost Keys

The loss of keys is one of the most frequent reasons for getting locked out. It's easy to misplace a key or leave it in a hurry, or while distracted. It is possible to avoid this kind of lockout by having an extra key or backup.

If you have an extra key, make sure it's stored in a secure location that only you or someone else you trust can access. You can also keep a key finder on your keychain or in your car to locate your keys quickly and easily. These devices emit an alert to help you find your keys. You can also make use of an application on your smartphone to track the location of your car's keysfob.

Another possibility is that your car key because it was stolen. If this is the case, you should always file a police report, which will leave a paper trail and may help your insurance company to provide compensation in the case of an incident of theft.

Sometimes, the locks of your car become damaged due to natural wear and tear or rust over time, making them difficult to open car. This is particularly true for older models that require you to manually insert the key into the lock. While there are DIY methods for unlocking your car using coat hangers or Slim Jims, they could damage your door locks and eventually cause costly repairs, so the best option is to wait for roadside assistance.

3. Broken Keys

Although keys are designed to withstand considerable force, overuse can cause wear and tear that eventually weakens the metal. This can lead to broken key fragments becoming stuck inside your lock. Fortunately, you can usually remove these with some basic tools, or at the very least free the rest of your key without causing damage to the lock mechanism.

If a tiny portion of your key is sticking out of the lock, you'll be able to extract it with the help of needle nose pliers. If the piece that fell off is stuck in the lock, you may require an flathead screwdriver or some other tool that's small enough to fit inside the lock. It's important how to open a door without a key be aware that the extraction process could require several attempts and patience. If you're impatient and the damaged key is not removed, it could be pushed even further into the lock. This can cause further damage.

You can make use of a small saw-blade that is available at many hardware stores to take out broken keys. This procedure must be carried out with extreme precision and care to avoid damaging the lock cylinder. If all other methods fail then you might need to drill the lock cylinder in order to pry it open. This isn't recommended unless are in an area that is secure such as a restaurant, gas station or convenience store.

If you are forced to use this method, make sure you locate a place in the public where you can wait for the locksmith to arrive. Do not stand in a deserted street or parking lot where you might be targeted by thieves. If possible, call the locksmith on your phone while you're in a secure area and ask them to meet them there to assist with the extraction.

4. Key fobs or transponders damaged

Car key fobs, just like any other electronic device, may fail as time passes. This could be a major problem for vehicle owners since they'll not be able to start their cars or unlock their doors. If this happens, it's essential to speak with a professional locksmith to resolve the issue.

If your key fob or transponder fails to turn the engine on, this is a common sign that it is malfunctioning. This could be due to various reasons, including malfunctioning or dead key chip.

To troubleshoot this, you should try replacing the batteries inside your key fob. If this doesn't work, you may need to visit an auto shop or a dealership in your local area to have the chip or key fob replaced.

Physical damage could also be a reason for malfunctioning fob. This can be caused by cracks or breaks in the key shell, worn out contacts, or any other issue that impact the internal functioning of the key fob. It is essential to get the key replaced or repaired as soon as you can, as it can also result in other issues with your vehicle.

Getting locked out of your vehicle can be a frightening scenario, and it's crucial to take precautions to prevent it from happening in the near future. Developing a routine that involves double-checking the keys to your vehicle can help you avoid this problem. Also, you can help yourself return to your car in the future by keeping a spare key safe and easily accessible. If you've experienced any of these issues with your key fob or locks call us today to set up an appointment with a licensed locksmith.

5. You may accidentally leave your keys inside

It's easy to lose your keys in the car while you're on the move during a busy day. If you're locked out of your car, stay at peace and try to determine the reason you were in this situation. You can avoid repeating the same situation by recalling what you did.

It is advisable to keep an extra set of keys available to prevent locking them inside. You can keep it in a location that you or someone who you trust is able to access easily or have a trusted friend keep one at home or work or locksmith use a lockout tool. Certain automakers also offer services that can unlock your car via remote, but they typically require a subscription.

Another option is to contact an assistance line for roadside emergencies such as AAA or locksmith your automaker's roadside assistance program. Moody states that these assistance programs will often assist you for a flat rate. Some automakers, such as GM's OnStar service and Mercedes-Benz's Mbrace offer these services for free to their owners.

Calling the local authorities is an alternative if you don't own a spare key, or have a roadside assistance plan. Be sure to contact emergency services if you or someone else is in danger. You could be fined or even face legal consequences if you use emergency services. It is also essential to evaluate the need for assistance before you begin calling for help in order to determine what solution is the most effective. Avoid rushing out of your car and making sure you check everything prior to getting in will help you avoid being locked out again in the future. This will help you ensure that you remember to secure any windows or doors and keep your vehicle safe while in transit.