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Vehicle Lock Out - Why You Should Always Have a Spare KeyEveryone can feel the strain of a car lockout. To avoid this, keep a spare key in your vehicle and keep it somewhere safe.This article explores some common causes of car lockouts and suggests some easy DIY methods, such as using an altered wire coat hanger to unlock your car's door.1. You've forgotten your keysYou're preparing to run errands when you forgot your keys in the ignition or on the seat. You're suddenly stuck outside when your door locks by itself. This is among the most common reasons for vehicle lockouts and is a great reason to always keep a spare key somewhere secure.Don't be worried. It might appear like you've failed, but it's not. Most roadside assistance programs and auto wreckers provide locksmith services for vehicles, and they're trained to open almost every vehicle quickly. They can also help you determine the cause of the problem with the car's lock to prevent it happening again in future.Keep your keys in your backpack, purse, or bag when you travel. You're less likely to lose your keys if you take this precaution. You can also look for them in common places, but don't try to hide them. Thieves are smart and may have considered all the usual places to hide.Based on the car's manufacturer depending on the manufacturer of your car, you could have the option of using an application that turns your smartphone into a key fob. This is a great solution in the event that you've lost your keys, or are still in the car. It's available on most modern cars. Visit the website of your automaker to determine if it offers an application, and how to install it. You should also check with your insurance company to determine whether you're covered in case that you lock your keys in the car. Roadside assistance usually is covered in these instances, however the exact terms and coverage amount may vary.2. Your transponder keys have failedWhen it comes to modern vehicles there aren't many things more frustrating than being locked out of your car. Luckily with the assistance of a skilled locksmith, this problem can be solved quickly and without a lot of hassle.Transponder keys are a standard in most automobiles because they offer greater security and efficiency. Like any electronic device transponder keys can have problems and malfunction from time to the time. As such, it's important to recognize the signs that your transponder keys are failing to ensure that it is fixed immediately.The most frequent indication that your transponder key is failing is if it stops working in the lock of your car. This can be caused by a variety of factors. It could be because the microchip inside the key has stopped working or because there is a problem with the RF signal that is transmitted between the chip and your car's computer system. Another possibility is the bottom metal of the key being worn or dull. This could interfere with the signal.If this is the scenario, try using a different key to see if it works inside the lock of your car. You should also make sure that there isn't a nearby object blocking the signal. Finally, if you're still experiencing issues with your key, call a locksmith who specialises in transponder keys for vehicles to have it tested and possibly repaired. They will be able identify the issue that caused your transponder's malfunction and how to fix the problem. In the majority of cases locksmiths are able to reprogram the key so that it functions in your vehicle again.3. Your car's lock is stuckMany car door lockouts can be attributed to a blocked or jammed lock mechanism. Over Find Out More , dirt, rust, and other impurities can build in your lock and cause it to block. This can make it difficult, or even impossible to open your car's door and can also block your key fob from unlocking the door when you press its button.If you are in this situation it is possible to lubricate your lock using a penetrating catalyst or WD-40 in order to unjam it. These products can be found in auto supply stores or at home improvement stores. They can be applied to the lock using a flathead screwdriver, or any other thin object that you can stick into your keyhole to get at the mechanism behind it. If you are unable to insert the key fob or key key and lubricate the lock this way, try wiggling it back and forth with needle-nosed pliers.A damaged link between the lock's cylinder or the interior locking switch/post and car latch is another common cause of vehicle locks out. Extreme weather conditions or continuous use of the lock may cause this. Then you'll be unable open the car door and gain access to your belongings.To avoid this issue, you can keep an extra car key in a secure location and change the battery on your key fob regularly to prolong its life. Some automakers offer download apps that you can use to remotely unlock your car when it's locked. Be sure to contact your manufacturer to see whether they offer one.4. Your Car's Key Fob Has DiedCar key fobs rely on batteries to function and, sometimes, they run out of juice. This problem can be solved by simply changing the batteries. If your car's key fob doesn't function at all, this could indicate that something else is wrong. If you are experiencing this issue, you should consult the manual for your car to determine what other steps you can take.If you've lost your car keys and don't have a spare contact a locksmith for help. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockout services and could be able to assist you gain access to your car without the need to pay for a tow or other recovery services.You can also make use of a physical key in order to unlock your vehicle. The majority of newer cars have a key slot hidden on the driver's side of the door, which is usually found behind the handle cover. Use the mechanical key to open the door, and use the fob to push the start button (if required). Certain manufacturers have backup systems in place that let you start your car with a dead key.It's never fun being locked out of your vehicle and especially when it happens in a strange place. Keep an extra car key at your home or with trusted acquaintances and replace the battery in your key fob regularly. Additionally, you can attempt to improve your ability to locate your keys by investing in a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices emit an unique signature that can be connected to a phone application. This can be extremely helpful in finding your keys in case they get lost or misplaced.5. The lock on your car has accumulated dirtOver time, grime and dirt build up inside your car's lock, which could cause it to get blocked and stop you from opening the door. To prevent this from happening it is recommended to grease the hinges and locks of your car at least once a year with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst.Another method to avoid having the possibility of a vehicle lock being lost is to always have a spare key on hand. You can do this by carrying the spare key in your purse or wallet and leaving it with a family member, or donating a set to your valet if reside in an apartment. It is also advisable to keep the contact information of your local locksmith on hand. This will help you save time and stress if you ever need to get locked out of your vehicle.Many automakers provide roadside assistance to help drivers gain access to their car in the event of a lockout. This includes GM’s OnStar service that has been available for years, Mercedes’ Mbrace service and Hyundai BlueLink. If none of these options is available, call a towing company within your region to resolve the problem.If you're in search of a reliable and professional towing service, call Richman Automotive & Towing today!It's never a great thing to find yourself locked out of your car. There are many quick solutions to this issue. It is also beneficial to have a spare car key, and know who to contact if you require assistance. Visit us online to find out more. We're here to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to working with you! You can also give us a a call at (301) the 777-1877.