15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Overlook Car Lockouts
Preventing Car Lockouts
Car lockouts can be frustrating and stressful. There are, however, ways to prevent them from happening.
The first step is to remain calm. Assess the situation carefully. The stress of panic can cloud your judgment and make it difficult to reach a resolution. Call for help if needed. This is the most reliable and safest alternative.
Make sure you have your keys in order prior to leaving the Car.
One of the most common problems that drivers face is getting locked out of their car. Unfortunately, it happens when you least expect it, which can result in a lot of stress and frustration. There are steps you can take to prevent this from occurring again.
Before you panic, it's important to make sure you check the doors to your car for keys. You should also empty your pockets and bags in case your keys were accidentally dropped. Last but not least, take a look back at your day to determine if you accidentally dropped your keys or reached into your bag to grab something to knock them out of the way.
Many people are tempted to try DIY methods to gain access to their vehicle when they are locked outside, for instance using coat hangers or bobby pins to pick the locks. These methods can be dangerous and can damage your car's lock or windows. Modern vehicles also have advanced security alarms and lock systems that will start if these devices are used to gain entry to the car.
It's important to have a spare car key in addition to a professional locksmith and roadside assistance. There are a range of different alternatives, like an universal car key in stores like your local hardware store or discount department stores. The possession of a spare key can make sure you access your vehicle quickly and conveniently when you're stuck in an awkward situation.
If you're a new owner of a car, or purchased your car as a pre-owned certified model, you may be eligible for free roadside assistance through the website of the manufacturer or dealer. These services include assistance with car lockouts and a variety of different issues. Additionally, you can also download the HONK app on your smartphone and connect with 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 costs. You will also know the price of your service prior to it arrives.
Keep a Spare Key on Hand
A spare key is the most effective method to avoid car lockouts. It provides you with a means to gain access to your vehicle even in the event that your primary key gets lost, and can save you the headache of calling emergency locksmith services for help.
It can be frustrating to find yourself locked out of your car however, you must remain calm and logical to find the best solution. Roadside assistance can unlock your vehicle without damaging it. If you don't have an insurance plan for roadside assistance, however, you may consider calling a locksmith for help instead.
You can also keep a spare key in your home office or at work. This is a great option for those who live in shared homes or vehicles, as it is easier to manage schedules. You can also leave keys with a family member as you are confident that they will return the key in an emergency situation.
If you've got a spare key, be sure to test it to be sure it functions properly. Ideally, you should also keep the spare key in a conspicuous place that's difficult for a burglar to find. If you're not sure where to put your spare key, think about using a lockbox for keys that only you and trusted people have access to. In the end, you may prefer to give the spare key to a friend or family member who lives nearby and can help you retrieve it if required.
It is also important to be aware that a spare key can be worn down by the original key, so it's recommended to replace the spare every couple of months. This will keep your original key from wearing down and can help you avoid problems in the future. It's difficult to do however it can save you from having to pay money for emergency locksmith services in the future.
Make use of a wedge and a Long-Reach Tool
There are many reasons why cars lock themselves out. Certain car lockouts result from human error, while some are caused by technical issues. Regardless of the reason, it is important to take all steps to stop these incidents from occurring in the first place. There are few tools you can keep in your bag to help you avoid getting locked out of your car.
You can use a wedge to create a gap between the door frame of the vehicle and its body. Then, you can move the rod, or straightened wire clotheshanger, through the gap to activate the door handle inside. However, this method is difficult to maneuver in the tight spaces.
Another option is to buy a tool with a long reach designed for car lockouts. Many of these tools have a sleeve that can be used to prevent damage to the weather stripping, the paint and the edge of the car door during a lockout. The sleeve can also protect your hands and fingers while using a long-reach tool.
These tools are bent in regular configurations so that they can be used instantly for most situations. Some tools come with a contrasting colour to aid in their identification in dim light. The Ultimate Long Reach Tool Kit gives you the most flexibility. It comes with four of the most commonly used long-reach tool 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 by using a rod or hanger to get back inside, however this could be dangerous and costly. It can damage the lock system of the vehicle and the paint, door, and window. Breaking in could also cause an investigation by the police, and possibly additional charges.
It is recommended to call roadside assistance unless you are in urgent need like the child or a vulnerable driver locked in the vehicle. A service such as HONK will send you an auto locksmith on-demand who will open your vehicle safely and quickly. The app will show upfront prices and allows you not to worry about hidden fees or negotiating with the tow truck driver.
Call for Help
It's not just frustrating, but also dangerous to be locked out of your vehicle. If you attempt to unlock your vehicle without the proper tools you could damage your vehicle that will make it difficult to access in the future. Professional locksmiths have the tools and expertise to unlock your car quickly without causing any damage, which saves you time and stress.
If
i lock my keys in the car stranded with your keys locked in the car, it's important to remain calm and seek assistance. Don't attempt to unlock the vehicle with DIY methods you've seen on the internet. these methods may work in certain situations but could be a major hazard to modern vehicles equipped that have high-tech locking systems.
Towing companies in your area can offer lockout services for affordable prices. Some automakers also offer smartphones that allow you to unlock your car remotely. If you own a vehicle from one of these brands and you have an active warranty or roadside assistance plan, make sure to review their apps for more information on how to utilize them.
You can also call the local auto dealer to find out if they're able to unlock your vehicle. This service could be offered at no cost or at a cost of a small amount, depending on the manufacturer and the relationship you have with the dealership. Certain non-profit organizations and community support organizations also 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.
Locked out of your car is not a pleasant experience however it doesn't need to ruin your day. By remaining calm, calling for help, and taking precautions to avoid this occurrence in the future. Be sure to check your spare key in the event that you have one before leaving the vehicle and keep a routine of checking each door for keys prior to closing them. If you are unable to locate your keys, consider leaving one with an amiable neighbor or a trusted friend and practice safe driving habits every time you get behind the driving.