10 Things Everybody Gets Wrong About Auto Lock Out Why You May Get Locked Out of Your Auto

Getting locked out of your car could be more than just an inconvenience. It can be dangerous.

There are many ways to help you get into your vehicle without causing damage. The most fundamental way to prevent a lockout is to keep a spare key.

1. You're locked out of your car

Being locked out of your car isn't just frustrating but also dangerous. There are many reasons why you might be locked out, and it's essential to be aware of the reasons. If you know what to look for it will help you avoid future problems.

Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced security systems that can identify attempts to break into their system. This is a blessing and a curse, as it can sometimes deny you access to your car when your keys are inside it. This could happen when you're trying to balance your coffee cup, phone, and briefcase when you are near the door to the driver. This can trigger the key fob to automatically close your doors when you go to open them.

If you're in this type of situation you should call for roadside assistance instead of trying to use homemade tools such as string or hangers to unlock your lock. A professional locksmith can assist you in avoiding damaging your vehicle and provide the fastest solution.

Over time, dirt, rust and other impurities may build inside your lock and jam it. This could also happen if the door is damaged due to an accident or another event. This can render your key fob or other security mechanisms ineffective and you will not be able to get back into the car.

Some automakers offer a special download application that you can use to unlock your car in an emergency. GM offers the service as part of its OnStar subscription. BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai have similar apps. These tools can be useful but should only be utilized after all other options have been exhausted.

2. Lost Keys

One of the most common causes for being locked out is the loss of your keys. It is easy for drivers to lose a key, or leave it in a place when they're in a hurry or distracted. You can prevent this kind of lockout by having an extra or backup key.

If you have a spare key, make sure it's in a secure location that only you or someone you trust has access to. You can keep an electronic key finder in your car or on your keychain to easily locate your keys. These devices sound an alert to assist you in finding your keys, or make use of an app on your smartphone that determines the location of the key fob in your car.


Another possibility is that the car key due to it was stolen. You must always submit a claim to the police in the case. This will result in an official record on paper and could help you get compensation from your insurance company in the case of theft.

Your car's locks can become more difficult to open due to rust or natural wear. This is especially true with older models that require you 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, which can lead to expensive repairs.

3. Broken Keys

Keys are designed to withstand the force of a lot, but excessive use can cause the metal to weaken. This can result in broken keys that get stuck in your lock. You can remove them with some basic tools, or get rid of the remaining key without damaging the lock mechanism.

If a small portion of the key that was broken is sticking out of the lock, you'll usually remove it using a pair of needle nose pliers. If the piece that fell off is lodged deeper inside the lock, you might require a flathead screwdriver or another tool that's small enough to fit into the lock. Be aware that the removal process could require multiple attempts and patience. If you're not patient enough you could accidentally push the damaged key further into the lock and cause even more damage.

You can make use of a small saw-blade that is available at many hardware stores to remove broken keys. However, this must be used with extreme care and precision to avoid harming the lock cylinder. If the other methods don't work then you may need to drill into the lock cylinder to break it open. This isn't recommended unless you can do it from an area that is safe, such as a gas station, restaurant or convenience store.

If you must make use of this method, find a location in which you can sit until the locksmith arrives. Don't stay on a deserted street, parking deck or lot where you could be targeted by thieves. If you are able, call the locksmith on your phone while you're in a secure location and ask if they can meet you there to assist in the extraction.

4. Damaged Transponder or Key Fob

Car key fobs, like any other electronic device, could malfunction over time. This can cause a serious problem for vehicle owners as they will no longer be able to start their car or open their doors. It is essential to contact locksmiths to help solve this issue.

One of the most common signs that your key fob or transponder is in trouble is when it fails to start your engine. This can be caused by many reasons, including a dead battery or an issue with the key fob chip.

To resolve this issue problem, you can try replacing the batteries in your key fob. If this doesn't help, you may need to visit an auto repair shop in your area or dealership to have the chip or fob replaced.

Another reason why you may be experiencing the problem with your key fob is due to physical damage. This can be due to a damaged or cracked key shell, worn-out contacts, or any other issue that can affect the internal functioning of your key fob. It's important to have the key replaced or repaired as soon as possible and also lead to other issues with your vehicle.

Being locked out of your vehicle is a terrifying scenario, and it's crucial to take steps to avoid it from happening again in the future. To avoid this issue, it can be accomplished by creating a routine where you double-check that you have your keys at the time you exit your vehicle. Additionally, you can help yourself get back inside your vehicle in the future by keeping a spare key secure and easily accessible. Contact us to make an appointment with locksmiths if you've had any of these problems with keys or locks.

5. You've accidentally threw your keys in the lock.

It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing through the day. If you get locked out of your car, stay calm and try to determine how you ended up in this situation. You can avoid repeating the same situation by recalling the actions you took.

The best way to ensure that you don't from accidentally locking your keys in is to ensure you have a spare key on hand. This could involve storing it in a place that you or someone you trust can access quickly, having a friend keep a spare key in their workplace or at home, or using an alarm kit. Some automakers also offer services that let you unlock your car via remote, but they tend to require the purchase of a subscription.

You can also contact a roadside service, such as AAA or the roadside assistance program offered by your automaker. Moody states that these assistance programs are often able to assist you at a cost of a flat fee. Some automakers offer owners these programs for free, like GM's OnStar and Mercedes-Benz Mbrace.

The local authorities are an option if you don't have a spare key or have a roadside assistance plan. Be sure to only contact emergency services when you or someone else is in danger. In the event of a mishap, you could be liable to fines or legal action for misusing emergency services. It is important to determine the urgency prior to making a seek help, since this will determine the best solution. To avoid getting locked out of your vehicle in the future, countercheck everything prior to getting back in and not rush when you exit your vehicle. This can help you ensure you don't leave any doors and windows unlocked and can protect your car from damage during transit in the event that it needs to be moved to a new location.