Why You May Get Locked Out of Your Auto
Locked out of your car could be more than just an inconvenience. It could also be a risk.
There are a variety of methods to allow you access to your vehicle without causing damage. The most basic method to prevent a lockout is to have an extra key.
1. You're locked out of your car
It can be dangerous to be locked out of your vehicle. There are a variety of reasons you may get locked out, and it is important to understand the causes. If you are aware of what to look for this will help avoid future problems.
Modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems that are able to detect attempts to break into their security. This is a good thing but also a curse, since it can sometimes deny you access to your vehicle even the keys are in it. This can occur when you are juggling your phone, coffee cup, and briefcase as you walk towards the driver's door. This can trigger the key fob to automatically close your doors when you go to open them.
It's better to call roadside assistance if you are in this situation than to try to open the lock with homemade tools like a string or hanger. A professional locksmith will have the right tools to avoid damaging your vehicle, and they can often offer a quick solution.
Over time, dirt, rust and other impurities could build up inside your lock, which can cause it to become jammed. It can also happen if the door is damaged in an accident or some other incident. This can render your key fob or other security mechanisms ineffective and you will not be able to enter the vehicle.
Certain automakers offer a download application that you can use to unlock your car in an emergency. GM offers this service as part of its OnStar subscription. BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai provide similar apps. These tools can be useful but should only be employed when all other options are exhausted.
2. Lost Keys
One of the most frequent causes for being locked out is the loss of your keys. It's easy to misplace a key or leave it somewhere in a hurry or when you're distracted. The good thing is that you can avoid this kind of lockout by having a spare key or an alternate plan for accessing your vehicle.
If you have a spare key, make sure it's stored in a secure place that only you or someone you trust has access to. You can keep an electronic key keeper in your vehicle or on your keychain to quickly and easily locate your keys. These devices emit an alarm to help you locate your keys. You can also use an app on your smartphone that tracks the location of your car's keyfob.
Another possibility is that you have lost your car key because it was stolen. If this is the case, always file a police report, which will leave an evidence trail on paper and could aid your insurance company in providing compensation in the event of a 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. There are DIY methods to unlock your car, such as using Slim Jims or coat hangers, however, these could damage the door locks, leading to costly repairs.
3. Broken Keys
Keys are made to withstand the force of a lot, but excessive use can cause the metal to weaken. This can result in broken pieces of keys that are stuck in your lock. You can remove them with some basic tools, or at least free up the remaining key without damaging the lock mechanism.
If a small portion of your key is protruding from the lock, you'll usually remove it using a pair of needle nose pliers. If the portion that broke off is stuck in the lock, you may need to use a flathead screwdriver or other tool that is small enough to fit in the lock. Be aware that the extraction process may require multiple attempts and patience. If you're too impatient you may accidentally push the damaged key into the lock and cause even more damage.
You can use the small saw-blade which you can purchase at most hardware stores to cut off broken keys. This method must be done with great care and precision 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 is not recommended unless it's possible to do it in a safe location, like a gas station, convenience store, or restaurant.
If you must resort to this method, you should locate a place in the public where you can wait for the locksmith to arrive. Do not stand in an empty street or parking lot where you might be targeted by thieves. If possible, call the locksmith from your phone while you're in a secure area and ask them to meet them there to assist in the extraction.
4. Key fob or transponder damaged
Car key fobs, as any other electronic device, could fail in time. This could pose a huge issue for car owners, as it means they'll no longer be able to start their cars or even open their doors. It's important to call an expert locksmith to help troubleshoot this problem.
When your key fob or transponder isn't turning the engine on, this is a typical indication that it's malfunctioning. This can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the malfunctioning or dead key chip.
To solve this issue it is suggested to replace the batteries inside your key fob. If this doesn't work, you may need to visit a local auto shop or dealership to get the chip or fob replaced.
Another reason you might be experiencing a malfunctioning key fob is due to physical damage. This could be caused by broken or cracked key shell, worn out contacts, or other factors that affect the internal functionality of the key fob. It is essential to get this repaired or replaced in the earliest time possible in order to avoid having it lead to other issues with your vehicle.
Locked out of your vehicle can be a frightening scenario, and it's crucial to take steps to prevent it from happening in the near future. Implementing a system that involves double-checking to ensure you have your keys before exiting your vehicle can help avoid this problem. Also, you can make it easier to return to your vehicle in the future by keeping a spare key somewhere safe and accessible. Contact unlocking car door service to schedule an appointment with locksmiths if you've had any of these problems with keys or locks.
5. You accidentally left your keys in the lock.
It's easy to lose your keys in the car while you're on the move during a busy day. Stay calm and try to determine how you got locked out of your car. The information you gather will aid you in avoiding a similar occurrence in the future.
The best way to prevent accidentally locking your keys inside is to ensure you have a spare key on hand. You can store it in a safe place that you or someone else who you trust is able to access easily, have a friend keep one at their office or home or make use of the lockout tool. Some automakers also have services that allow you to unlock your vehicle remotely, though these usually require an annual subscription.
You can also contact an emergency roadside service such as AAA or the roadside assistance program of your automaker. They can assist you for a flat fee, Moody notes. Certain automakers, like GM's OnStar service and Mercedes-Benz's Mbrace offer these services free to owners.
If you don't have a spare key or a roadside assistance plan, calling local authorities can be a good alternative. Make sure you only call emergency services when you or someone else is in danger. Otherwise, you may be liable to penalties or legal action for misusing emergency services. It is also essential to determine the need for assistance before you begin calling for help, as this will determine what solution is most suitable. Do not rush out of your vehicle and checking everything before you go in will help you avoid being locked out again in the future. This will help you ensure that you remember to lock any windows or doors and ensure that your vehicle is safe while in transit.