7 Things About Car Lockouts You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
Preventing Car Lockouts
Car lockouts can be stressful and frustrating experiences. There are ways to avoid them.
The first step to take is to remain calm. Take note of the situation. Panic can cloud your judgement and make it difficult to come to a resolution. Contact help if you need it. This is the most reliable and least damaging option.
Make sure to check your keys before leaving the Car
Getting locked out of the car is one of the most common problems that drivers experience. It can happen when you least expect it, which can cause a lot of anxiety and frustration. There are steps you can do to avoid this occurring again.
Before you panic, be sure to look through all the doors of your car for your keys. You should also empty your bags and pockets in case your keys were dropped accidentally. Also, go back through your day to check if you could have accidentally set the keys down or reached into your bag to grab something and knocked them out of your way.
Many people try DIY methods to gain access to their vehicle when they are locked outside, like using coat hangers or bobby pins to open the locks. However, these methods are often dangerous and may damage the windows or locks of your car. In addition, modern vehicles have more advanced locks and security alarms that are likely to set off if you try to employ these methods to gain access to your vehicle.
It's essential to have an extra car key in addition to a professional locksmith and roadside assistance. In stores such as your local hardware store, you can get a variety of options such as a universal key. The possession of a spare key can allow you to access your vehicle quickly and easily when you're stuck in an awkward situation.
If you are a new car owner or bought your vehicle as a certified used model, you could be eligible for roadside assistance through the manufacturer's website or dealership. These services include assistance with car lockouts and various other problems. locked car keys in car can also download the HONK application on your smartphone to connect with an area locksmith or towing service to help you in a crisis. In contrast to traditional roadside assistance clubs, HONK has no membership costs or charges for up-front services and lets you know how much your service will cost before they arrive.
Keep a spare key in the go
A spare key is the ideal way to avoid car lockouts. You'll still be able to gain access to your car even in the event that you lose the primary key. It also prevents you from having to call an emergency locksmith service.
It can be a hassle to be locked out of your vehicle, but you should remain calm and logical to figure out the best solution. Calling roadside assistance is usually the best option, since they have the tools necessary to unlock your vehicle without causing damage. If you don't have a roadside assistance service or plan to call an locksmith instead.
Another alternative is to keep a spare key in your home or office. This is an excellent option for people who live in shared houses or vehicles, since it is easier to arrange schedules. You can also leave a spare key with a family member, so long as you trust them to return the key to you in an emergency situation.
Test your spare key to ensure it's working correctly. Ideally, you should keep the spare key in a hidden location that is difficult for a burglar to find. If you're not sure of where to hide your spare keys, you can use the key lockbox. Only you and trusted persons will be able to access. You could also give the spare key away to a family member or friend who lives close by and can bring it to you in case of emergency.
It is also important to be aware that a spare key could wear down your original key, which is why it's recommended to replace the spare every couple of months. This will prevent your primary key from becoming worn down and help to avoid future issues. It can be complicated, but it will save you money in the end by preventing you from having to hire an emergency locksmith.
Make use of a Wedge Tool as well as the Long Reach Tool
Car lockouts happen for a number of reasons. Some are human errors or technical. Whatever the reason, you have to take all steps to stop such events from occurring in the first place. There are few tools you can keep in your bag to prevent getting locked out of your vehicle.
You can use a wedge as a tool to create a gap between the door frame of the vehicle and the body. Then, you can slide a rod, or a straight wire clotheshanger, through the gap to activate the door handle inside. But, this method is difficult to maneuver through an area that is tight.
An alternative is to purchase a device with a lengthy reach that is designed for car lockouts. A lot of these tools have an elastic cover that can be used to protect damage to the weather stripping, paint and the edge of the car door during a lockout. The sleeve is also able to protect your hands and fingers when using tools with a long reach.
Most of these devices are pre-bent in standard configurations that allow immediate access to all situations with no further modification. Some even come with a distinct color, making them easy to find in dim lighting. The Ultimate Long Reach Tool Kit offers maximum flexibility. It comes with four of the most common long-reach tools, plus a Button Master, Mega Master snare two air wedges, and a lockout tape that is protective.
Some people will try to break into their vehicles using a rod or hanger to get back inside, however this could be risky and expensive. It can damage the locking system of the vehicle, as well as the paint, door and window. Furthermore, breaking in could trigger an investigation by the police and could result in additional charges.
Unless there is an emergency, such as small children or vulnerable individuals who are locked inside the vehicle, it's best to call for roadside assistance. A service like HONK will send you an auto locksmith on-demand who will open your vehicle quickly and safely. The app shows you the price upfront, so you don't have to worry about hidden costs or negotiating with tow truck drivers.
Call for Help
It's not just frustrating, but also dangerous to be locked out of your car. In the event that you attempt to unlock your vehicle without the right tools can lead to damage that makes it even more difficult to gain access to your car in the future. Professional locksmiths are equipped with the necessary tools and know-how to unlock your car quickly and without creating damage. This will help you save time and ease the stress.
Stay calm and call for assistance if you find yourself stranded in your car with keys locked inside. Do not attempt to unlock your vehicle using the DIY techniques you've seen on the Internet. These tricks may work for some cars however they could cause serious damage to modern vehicles with modern locking mechanisms.
Towing companies in your local area offer lockout services at affordable prices. Some automakers also offer apps for smartphones to unlock vehicles remotely. If you own a car from one of these brands and have an active warranty or roadside assistance plan, be sure to review their app offerings for more information on how you can use them.
Another option is to call your local auto dealer to see whether they can help unlock your vehicle. This service can be provided free of charge or at a minimal cost dependent on the manufacturer and the relationship you have with the dealership. Some non-profit groups and community support organizations provide assistance to those who are locked out of their car. To find out more about the options available in your area, contact your local community centers or social service organizations.
It's not a pleasant experience to be locked out of your car However, it doesn't have to ruin your entire day. By staying calm and contacting for help and taking precautions to avoid this occurrence in the future. Make sure you have a spare key if it's there before you exit your vehicle. Also, make sure to check each door before closing it. If you're unable to locate your keys and you don't have a spare, leave it with a neighbor or trusted friend. Also, make sure you practice safe driving every time you enter the car.