How To Save Money On Car Lockouts
Preventing Car Lockouts
Car lockouts can be stressful and frustrating experiences. There are, however, ways to avoid them from happening.
The first step is to remain calm. Take note of the situation. The stress of panic could cloud your judgment and make it difficult to find a solution. In the next step, seek assistance if needed. This is the most secure and least damaging method.
Check your keys prior to leaving the car
One of the most common problems drivers face is getting locked out of their vehicle. Unfortunately, it occurs when you least expect it to, which can result in a lot of anxiety and frustration. There are steps you can take to prevent this from occurring again.
Before you panic, be sure to check all the doors in your vehicle for keys. Also, empty your bags and pockets in the event that your keys are accidentally dropped. Lastly, walk back through your day to check whether you may have accidentally set the keys down or reached into your bag to grab something and knocked them out of your way.
Many people are tempted to try DIY methods to gain access to their vehicle when they are locked outside, such as using coat hangers or bobby pins to open the locks. These methods could be risky and can damage your car's lock or windows. Furthermore, modern vehicles come with more sophisticated locking systems and alarms that are likely to start if you attempt to employ these methods to gain access to the vehicle.
In addition to utilizing an experienced locksmith or a roadside assistance it is important to have an extra key in your pocket. In stores such as your local hardware store, you'll get a variety of options such as a universal key. A spare key will enable you to enter your vehicle quickly and easily in case you are in a stressful situation.
If you're a new car owner or purchased your vehicle as a certified used model, you could be eligible for roadside assistance from the website of the manufacturer or dealer. These services include assistance with car lockouts as well as various other problems. In addition, you can download the HONK app for your smartphone and connect to a professional locksmith or towing service in your area to help you in times of need. Unlike traditional roadside help clubs, HONK does not charge membership fees or upfront charges. You will also know the cost of your service before it is delivered.
Keep an extra key handy
Having a spare key in your possession is among the best ways to prevent car lockouts. It allows you to gain access to your vehicle even when your primary key is lost, and can help you avoid the hassle of calling emergency locksmith services for assistance.
Locked out of your vehicle can be a stressful situation, but it's essential to stay calm and focus on your thoughts to find the most efficient solution. Roadside assistance can unlock your vehicle without causing damage. If you don't have a roadside service plan or plan to call locksmiths instead.
You can also keep a spare key in your home or office. This is a great idea for those who share cars or live in homes shared by others as it makes it easier to organize schedules and ensure that all of your keys are always where you require them. You can also leave keys with a family member as you can are confident that they will return the key to you in an emergency situation.
Test your spare key to ensure it functions correctly. You should also store your spare key in a place that is difficult to find by burglars. If you're not sure where to store your spare key, consider using a key lockbox that only you and trusted people have access to. You can also offer the spare key to someone in your family or a friend who lives close by and can give it to you in case of an emergency.
You should also be aware that a spare key could reduce the lifespan of your original, so it is an ideal idea to replace the spare every couple of months. This will keep your original key from becoming worn down and will help you avoid issues in the future. This can be a little tedious, but it will save you money in the long run by preventing you from needing to hire an emergency locksmith.
Make use of a Wedge Tool as well as a Long Reach Tool
Car lockouts can occur due to many reasons. Some are caused by human error and others are technical. Whatever the reason, it is important to take all steps to prevent such incidents from occurring in the first place. Fortunately, there are a few tools that you can keep in your bag to ensure that you don't get locked out of your car.
A wedge can be used as a tool to create a space between the door frame of the vehicle and its body. This lets you move a rod or straightened wire clothes hanger through the gap, which allows you to trigger the door handle inside or lock button. However, this method isn't easy to maneuver through a tight space.
A better alternative is to invest in an extended-reach tool specifically designed for car lockouts. Many such tools have a sleeve with a flexible design that can be used to shield the paint, weather stripping and edges of the door from being damaged during an emergency lockout. The sleeve is also able to protect your hands and fingers when using a long-reach tool.
These tools are bent into regular configurations to be used instantly for most situations. Some tools are even colored differently to make them easier to find in dim lighting. The Ultimate Long Reach Tool Kit gives you the most versatility. It includes four of the most commonly used long-reach tools as well as a Button Master, Mega Master snare two air wedges, and protective lockout tape.
Some people attempt to break in with hangers or rods to get into their car but it could be risky and costly. It could cause damage to the lock system of the car and also the door, paint, and window. In addition, breaking into a vehicle could even lead to an investigation by police and could result in additional charges.
Unless there is locked out of my car help , like small children or vulnerable individuals trapped in the vehicle, it's recommended to contact roadside assistance. A service such as HONK will send you an on-demand auto locksmith who will open your vehicle quickly and safely. The app shows you the cost upfront, meaning you don't have to worry about hidden fees or bargaining with tow truck drivers.
Need Help?
Getting locked out of your car not only frustrating, it's also a risk. If you try to unlock your car without the right tools you could cause damage to your vehicle that will make it more difficult to access in the future. Professional lockout services have the tools and expertise to unlock your car quickly without causing any damage, making it easier for you to get your car unlocked and save time and stress.
Stay calm and contact a professional if you find yourself stranded in your car with keys locked inside. Don't try to unlock the vehicle using DIY methods you've seen on the internet. these hacks may work in certain situations but can be very damaging to modern cars with modern locking systems.
Towing companies in your area can provide lockout services at an affordable cost. Certain automakers also provide smartphones that allow you to unlock your car remotely. If you own a car from one of these manufacturers and have an active warranty or roadside assistance plan, be sure to review their app offerings for more details on how you can use them.
Another option is to call your local auto dealer to see whether they can help unlock your car. This service can be provided at no cost or at a minimal cost dependent on the manufacturer and the relationship you have with the dealership. Some non-profit groups and community support groups also offer assistance to those who are locked out of their vehicle. Contact your local community centers and social service organizations to learn more about the options available in your area.
It's not pleasant to be locked out of your car however it doesn't need to ruin your day. By remaining calm, calling for help, and taking precautions to prevent this from happening in the future. Remember to verify your spare key in the event that you have one, before leaving the vehicle and also make a habit of checking every door for your keys before closing them. If you are unable to locate your keys, think about leaving an extra with an amiable neighbor or a trusted friend and follow safe driving habits every time you get behind the driving.