The 10 Worst Lockout Car Fails Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
How to Prevent a Lockout Car
If you've ever been locked out, you know how difficult it can be. There are some things you can do to avoid this from ever being repeated.
First, you must always have a spare key at hand. In addition, you should consider purchasing an emergency roadside assistance service. These services provide many advantages, including a free lockout every year.
1. Need Help?
A car lockout can occur due to a variety of reasons. You may have locked the keys in the car while closing the door, or you might not be able to enter the vehicle because it has been damaged by a collision or an intruder. In any case it's crucial to remain calm and call a professional for help instead of attempting to fix the issue yourself.
It's a good idea to keep the contact number for locksmiths or roadside assistance service in your wallet or phone. Some service providers provide inexpensive and convenient lockout services that are available 24 hours a days. Some even offer mobile app-based solutions that let you unlock your car with just a tap. These apps can be especially helpful if you're in a hurry and forgot your keys in the car.
Over time, dirt, rust and impurities may build up in your locks, causing them jam or refuse to open. The key fob could also lose its programming or the receiver in your vehicle could fail. Whatever the reason, a professional can restore the access to your vehicle employing the most advanced tools and techniques.
In the past police officers were capable of helping you in a lockout situation making use of tools, such as a slim jim. Most officers will no longer assist you unless the car was abandoned by a pet or a child. It is recommended to call the police with a non-emergency number instead. A lot of newer vehicles come with a mobile application that allows you to unlock your car from anyplace. If locked out car have a recent model, check the automaker's website for this information.
2. Use a spare key
The possession of a spare key is among the most convenient and effective ways to avoid being locked out. This can be as simple as putting it in your purse, pocket, or backpack that accompanies you wherever you go. Another option is to purchase an electronic key safe which will keep your keys safe and easy to find. Place it in a place that's hard for car thieves to locate and access, such as the underside of your vehicle.
If you don't have an extra set, it's best to arrange with someone who has one. If you leave your keys in a friend's or family member's vehicle, they'll have the tools to unlock it and get you back on the road. This is a great idea if you have young children traveling with you; it's always best to be prepared as you can for any unexpected situations.
If you do not have a family member or a friend available, your next move is to contact roadside assistance or the automaker's roadside service. These programs typically include technicians equipped with wedges and long-reach tool sets that can open the doors of your car. This is also an ideal time to look into your auto insurance policy, since a lot of insurers provide coverage for vehicle lockout.
If you don't own tools or wedges, you can use a less destructive but destructive method of picking the lock, such as shoelaces or coathanger wire. This method is more risky than the other options and it's not easy for modern vehicles that use sophisticated locking mechanisms. It is best to seek assistance from a professional if you don't have success with these methods.
3. Make use of a wedge or a long-reach tool
The wedge or long-reach is a must-have item in any car lockout kit. It lets you unlock your car without damaging the door, and without putting anyone else at risk. This tool can be used by putting it into the space between the door frame and window. This will allow you to control the lock's mechanism inside. Depending on the type of lock you have in your vehicle, you might need to move the wedge vertically or horizontally until it catches the locking mechanism, and then unlocks the door.
Another great car lockout tool is a coat hanger made of wire, which can be fashioned into various shapes and used to press buttons or raise door handles. This is a great choice because it's simple inexpensive, affordable, and efficient. The only drawback is that it may be difficult for you to get the hook into place when you need to reach behind the door's panels and insert the bent end.
Another useful car lockout tool is an air wedge which is a plastic or foam device that is inserted between the window and the frame of the door to create a gap which allows you to insert an extended-reach tool inside. Air wedges can also be inflated slowly, which prevents them from causing excessive pressure or damaging the frame of the window or door. In addition to air wedges, Zip's AW Direct also carries long-reach tools for cars from Steck and Access Tools.
4. Use a door stopper
You can use a door stop to pry a gap open in your vehicle that will allow you to reach the locking button. According to YouTube user assertivecrystalgg45, the key is to slide the door stop between the top part of the window frame and the body of the vehicle without damaging the paint. Once you've created a small hole, you can then insert a metal rod and push down on the button to unlock inside the door. This method is most effective for vehicles with electronic locks, but it may work on regular locks as well.
Another tool you can make use of to unlock your car is a shoelace. Make a knot with a shoelace and tie a slip knot through the middle. You can tighten by pulling on both ends. Then, thread one end of the shoelace into the frame's corner of the door and then move it around the lock. After you've positioned the shoelace on top of the lock button.
This method also requires that the door is locked, so make sure to see if it is before trying it. Additionally this method might not work on cars with a hooked interior lock.
If you're still locked out, call roadside assistance. This service is covered by AAA or other memberships. Some automakers also offer downloadable applications that can help you access your car in the event of an unplanned lockout. Check with your car manufacturer if your vehicle is compatible. You can also find recommendations for a local locksmith online. They offer competitive rates and can help you get back in your car.
5. Use a Wire Hanger
You can use many tools to get back in your car if you're locked out. You can easily get into your vehicle without damaging it using a Slim Jim, or a modified wire coathanger. You can also make use of a shoelace or credit card to unlock the car's door. Whatever method you decide to use ensure that you remain in a calm state and determine the most efficient solution for your specific situation.
To use a coat hanger begin by straightening it out as much as possible. Then, place the hanger's end of the hanger into the space between the car's door and window. You may need to wiggle it around to find the perfect location however once you have found the right spot, hook the hanger's end around the lock and push up on it. If this doesn't work, you can try again, or call roadside assistance.
To avoid lockouts in the future, you can carry a spare key and place a doorstop underneath your door to separate it from the frame of your car, and consider installing an alarm system for additional security. Always be cautious when closing your car and ensure you have checked every door before leaving. You can avoid being stuck in your vehicle by following these suggestions.