Why You May Get Locked Out of Your Auto

(Image: https://g28carkeys.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/SEAT-Logo-2019.jpg)It can be more than a nuisance. It could also be a risk.

Fortunately, there are several methods that can assist you in getting back into your car without causing damage. Keep an extra car key in your car. This is the most basic way to avoid being locked out.

1. You're locked out of your vehicle

Being locked out of your vehicle isn't just frustrating but also risky. You may be locked out for various reasons, and it's crucial to understand the reasons. If you know what to look for, this can help prevent future issues.

The majority of modern vehicles have advanced security systems that detect any attempt at breaching their system. This is both a blessing and curse, since you might not be able to access your unlocking car door service if your keys are locked inside. This can happen when you're trying to balance your coffee cup, phone, and briefcase as you approach the door of the driver. This can trigger the key fob to automatically close your doors when you attempt to open them.

If you're in this situation you should seek help from a roadside service instead of trying to use homemade tools such as hangers or strings to open your lock. A professional locksmith has the right tools to avoid damaging your vehicle, and they can often provide you with a quick solution.

Over time, dirt, rust and other impurities can accumulate in your lock, causing it to jam. This can also occur when the door is damaged due to an accident or other event. These circumstances could render your key fob and other security mechanisms ineffective, and you will be unable to reenter your vehicle.

Certain automakers have a download app that allows you to unlock your vehicle in the event of an emergency. GM offers this service as part of its OnStar subscription. BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai have similar apps. These tools can be helpful, but should only be used when all other options are exhausted.

2. Lost Keys

Losing your keys is among the most common reasons for getting locked out. It's easy for a driver to lose a key or leave it unattended while in a rush or distracted. The good news is, you can avoid this kind of lockout by having a spare key in your possession or an alternative plan to gain access to your vehicle.

If you have an extra key, store it in a secure place that only you or someone you trust can access it. 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 alarm to help you locate your keys. You can also make use of an application on your smartphone to track the location of your car's keysfob.

You may have lost your car keys due to the fact that they were stolen. You must always make a report to the police if this is the case. This will create a record on paper that could assist you in getting compensation from your insurance company in the case of theft.

Sometimes, your car's locks can get damaged because of natural wear and tear or rusting over time, making them difficult to open. This is particularly the case for older models, where you have to manually insert the key into the lock. There are DIY methods to unlock your car, such as using Slim Jims or coat hangers but they can cause damage to the door locks, leading to expensive repairs.

3. Broken Keys

Keys are made to withstand a lot of force however, excessive use could cause the metal to weaken. This can lead to broken keys that get stuck in your lock. Fortunately, it is possible to get them out using some basic tools or at least free the rest of your key with minimal damage to your car lock mechanism.

If only a small portion of the key that has been broken protrudes from the lock, it can be removed with a pair needle nose pliers. If the portion that broke off is buried deeper within the lock, you might need to use a flathead screwdriver or other tool that's small enough to fit in the lock. It's important to remember that the extraction process may take several attempts and patience. If you're impatient, you could accidentally push the broken key into the lock and cause further damage.

A more radical home-grown method of removing broken keys is to use a small saw blade that is available at many hardware stores. However, this must be used with extreme care and precision to avoid harming the lock cylinder. If the other methods don't work you may have to drill the cylinder of the lock to open it. This is not recommended unless you are able to do it in a safe location, like a gas station or convenience store restaurant.

If you must use this method, you need to find a location where you can wait until the locksmith arrives. Don't stay on an empty street or parking deck in which you are likely to be targeted by thieves. The locksmith should meet you in a safe location if you are able to.

4. Damaged Transponder or Key Fob

Car key fobs, like any electronic device, can fail in time. This could be a major issue for car owners who not be able to start their cars or unlock their doors. It's essential to contact a locksmith to help you solve this issue.

One of the most common indications that your key fob or transponder is malfunctioning is when it doesn't turn on your engine. This can occur for various reasons, such as a dead battery or an issue with the key fob chip.

You can solve the issue by replacing the batteries in your fob key. If this doesn't work, you may need to visit an automotive shop or a dealership in your area to have the chip or key fob replaced.

Physical damage can also be a cause of malfunctioning fob. It could be caused by a cracked or damaged key shell, worn-out contactors, or any other factor that affects the internal functionality of your key fob. This should be repaired or replaced as quickly as possible as it could lead to other issues with your vehicle.

Being locked out of your vehicle can be a frightening scenario, and it's crucial to take steps to avoid it from happening in the near future. To avoid this issue, it can be accomplished by creating an established routine that requires you to double-check that you have your keys at the time you leave your vehicle. In addition you can make it easier to get back inside your vehicle 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 certified locksmith.

5. Inadvertently leave keys in your car

It's easy to lose your keys in the car when you're running through a busy day. If you're locked out of your car, stay calm and try to determine how to get keys out of locked car to get your keys out of a locked keys in car how to open car (read this) you ended up in this situation. You can avoid a repeat of the same situation by recalling what you did.

It is recommended to keep a spare set of keys in your possession to avoid accidentally locking them inside. This could involve storing it somewhere that you or someone else you trust will be able to access quickly, or having a friend keep a spare key in their workplace or at home, or using a lockout kit. Some automakers also offer services that allow you to unlock your vehicle via remote, but they tend to require the purchase of a subscription.

Another option is calling an emergency roadside assistance company like AAA or your automaker's roadside assistance program. They can come to your rescue for a flat fee, Moody notes. Certain automakers provide these programs to owners at no cost, such as GM's OnStar and Mercedes-Benz Mbrace.

If you don't have a spare key or a roadside assistance plan calling local authorities may be a viable alternative. Be sure to contact emergency services when you or someone else is in danger. You may be fined or be subject to legal consequences if you use emergency services. It is important to determine the urgency prior to making a seek help, since this will determine the most appropriate solution. Do not rush out of your car and checking everything before you go in will help you avoid being locked out again in the future. This will help you to ensure that you don't forget to lock your doors or windows and keep your vehicle safe during transit.