Why Auto Lock Out Will Be Your Next Big Obsession
Why You May Get Locked Out of Your Auto
It can be more than an inconvenience. It could also be a risk.
There are a variety of methods to help you enter your vehicle without causing damage. Keep an extra car key in your vehicle. This is the simplest way to prevent a lockout.
1. You're locked out of your vehicle
It can be dangerous to be locked out of your vehicle. There are many reasons why you might be locked out, and it is important to understand the causes. Knowing what to look for will help you avoid future problems.
The majority of modern vehicles have advanced security systems that detect any attempt to break their security. This is a good thing but also a curse, since it may sometimes prevent you from having access to your vehicle even the keys are in it. This can happen when you juggle your phone, coffee and briefcase as you walk towards the driver's door. The key fob may be activated to shut your doors when you try to open them.
It's better to call roadside assistance if in this kind of situation, rather than attempt to open the lock with homemade tools like a string or hanger. A professional locksmith can help you avoid damaging your vehicle and provide an immediate solution.
Over time, dirt, rust, and other impurities may build up in your lock, causing it to become jammed. This could also happen if the door is damaged in an accident or another event. This could cause your key fob to be lost and other security mechanisms useless and you'll be unable to reenter your vehicle.
Certain automakers offer a specific app that you can download to unlock your car in the event of an emergency. GM offers the service as part of its OnStar subscription. BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai offer similar apps. These tools can be helpful, but should only be employed when all other options have been exhausted.
2. Lost Keys
One of the most common causes for being locked out is the loss of your keys. It is easy for drivers to lose a key or leave it in a place when they are in a hurry or distracted. The good news is that you can prevent this type of lockout by having a spare key in your possession or an alternative plan to gain access to your vehicle.
If you have a spare key, make sure it's in a secure location that only you or someone else you trust can access. You can keep a keyfinder on your keychain or in your car to locate your keys quickly and easily. These devices sound an alert to aid you in finding your keys, or you can use a smartphone app that monitors the location of your car's key fob.
Another possibility is that you have lost your car key because it was stolen. If this is the case, you should always file a police report, which will create an evidence trail on paper and could help your insurance company provide compensation in the case of a theft.
Sometimes your car's locks get damaged because of natural wear and tear or rust over time, making them more difficult to open. This is particularly true for older models which 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 but these can damage the door locks, resulting in expensive repairs.
3. Broken Keys
Keys are made to withstand the force of a lot but overuse can cause the metal to weaken. This can result in broken keys that get stuck in your lock. You can remove them with some basic tools, or at the very least free up the remaining key without damaging the lock mechanism.
If only a small portion of the damaged key is protruding from the lock and is removed using a pair of needle nose pliers. If the piece that fell off is buried deeper within the lock, you might need to use an flathead screwdriver or some other tool that's small enough to fit in the lock. Remember that the extraction may require several attempts and patience. If you're too impatient you may accidentally push the damaged key 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. This procedure must be carried out with extreme care and precision to avoid damaging the lock's cylinder. If all other methods fail, you may need to drill the lock cylinder in order to pry it open. This isn't recommended unless you can do it from an area that is safe such as a restaurant, gas station or convenience store.
If you have to resort to this method, make sure you find a public place where you can wait for the locksmith to arrive. Avoid lingering on an empty street, parking lot or deck where you may be targeted by thieves. If you can, contact the locksmith from your phone while you're in a secure location and ask whether they'll meet you there to assist in the extraction.
4. Key fobs or transponders damaged
Car key fobs, just like any other electronic device, may fail over time. This could pose a huge issue for owners of vehicles since they'll no longer be able to start their cars or even open their doors. If this happens, it's crucial to get in touch with a professional locksmith to troubleshoot the problem.
If your key fob or transponder does not turn your engine on, it is a indication that it's malfunctioning. This can occur for many reasons, including an unresponsive battery or an issue with the key fob chip.
You can troubleshoot the problem by replacing the batteries on your key fob. If this doesn't work, you may need to visit a local auto repair shop or dealership to get the chip or fob replaced.
Another reason for experiencing a malfunctioning key fob is due to physical damage. This can be due to cracks or damage to the key shell, worn-out contacts, or any other cause that can affect the internal functioning of your key fob. It's important to have this repaired or replaced in the earliest time possible in order to avoid having it lead to other issues with your vehicle.
It's an absolute nightmare to be locked out of your vehicle It's crucial to prevent this from happening again. To avoid this issue, it can be accomplished by creating a routine where you double-check that you have your keys when you exit your vehicle. Also you can help yourself return to your vehicle in the future by keeping a spare key safe and easily accessible. Contact us to make an appointment with locksmiths if you've encountered any of these problems with keys or locks.
5. You accidentally left your keys inside
It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing through a busy day. If you get locked out of your car, stay calm and try to determine the reason you were in this situation. The information you gather will help you avoid a similar occurrence in the future.
It is best to have a spare set of keys on hand to prevent locking them inside. You can keep it in a safe place that you or someone else you trust has access to or have a friend keep one at their home or work or make use of an instrument for locking out. Some automakers offer services that let you unlock your vehicle remotely. However, these typically require the purchase of a subscription.
You can also call an emergency roadside service such as AAA or the roadside assistance program of your automaker. Moody states that these assistance programs are often able to assist you at a cost of a flat fee. Certain automakers offer these programs to owners for free, such as GM's OnStar and Mercedes-Benz Mbrace.
The local authorities are an option if you don't own a spare key, or have a roadside service plan. However, left keys inside car should only contact emergency services when 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 evaluate the urgency of the situation prior to when you begin calling for help, as this will determine what solution is the most appropriate. Be careful not to rush out of your vehicle and double-checking everything before you get in to avoid being locked out in the future. This will ensure you do not leave any doors or windows unlocked, and will help keep your car safe from damage during transit should it need to be transported to a new destination.