The Reasons Auto Lock Out Is More Tougher Than You Think Why You May Get Locked Out of Your Auto

It could be more than an inconvenience. It could be dangerous.

There are many ways to help you enter your vehicle without causing damage. The most fundamental way to avoid a lockout is to have an extra key.

1. Locked Out of Your Car

It is a risk to be locked out of your vehicle. There are many reasons that could cause you to be locked out, and it is crucial to know the reasons. Knowing what to look for can help you prevent future issues.

Modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems that detect any attempt to breach their system. This could be a blessing and curse, because you may not be able to access your vehicle if your keys remain in the car. This can occur when you have to juggle your phone, coffee cup, and briefcase as you walk towards the driver's door. The key fob may be triggered to shut your doors when you try to open them.

It's better to call roadside assistance if you are in this situation than to attempt to open the lock using an improvised tool like hanging string or hanger. A professional locksmith has the proper tools to avoid damaging your vehicle, and they can often offer the fastest solution.

Over time, dirt, rust and other impurities build up in your lock, causing it to jam. This can also occur if the door is damaged in an accident or other event. This can render your key fob or other security mechanisms ineffective and you will not be able to enter the vehicle.

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

2. Lost Keys

Losing your keys is one of the most frequent reasons for being locked out. It's easy to misplace keys or leave them in a hurry, or while distracted. It is possible to avoid this kind of lockout by having an extra key or backup.

If you have an extra key, make sure it's in a secure place that only you or someone else you trust access. You can also keep an electronic keyfinder in your car or on your keychain to swiftly and easily locate your keys. The devices emit an alert to help you find your keys. You can also make use of an application on your smartphone to track the location your car's keyfob.


You may have lost your car keys due to the fact that they were stolen. If this is the case, you must always make a police report, which will leave an official trail of evidence and aid your insurance company in providing compensation in the event of an incident of theft.

Sometimes, the locks of your car develop problems due to natural wear and tear or rusting over time, making them more difficult to open. This is especially in the case of older models where you have to manually insert the key into the lock. There are DIY methods to unlock your car, like using Slim Jims or coat hangers however, these could damage the door locks, resulting in expensive repairs.

3. Broken Keys

Although keys are designed to endure a lot of pressure, prolonged use could lead to wear and tear that eventually weakens the metal. This could result in broken pieces of the key getting stuck inside your lock. Fortunately, it is possible to remove them using a few basic tools or at least free the rest of your key with minimal damage to your car lock mechanism.

If only a small portion of the key that has been broken protrudes from the lock and is removed with a pair needle nose pliers. If the part that broke off is lodged deeper inside the lock, you may require a flathead screwdriver or other tool that is small enough to fit into the lock. Be aware that the extraction process may require several attempts and patience. If you're not patient and the damaged key is not removed, it could be pushed even further into the lock. This can cause further damage.

You can use a small saw-blade that you can buy at most hardware stores to cut off broken keys. However, it must be used with extreme care and precision to avoid harming the lock cylinder. If other methods fail then you may need to drill into the lock cylinder and pry it open. This isn't recommended unless you can do it from a safe location, such as a restaurant, gas station or convenience store.

If you have to resort to this method, you should locate a place in the public where you can wait for the locksmith to arrive. Avoid lingering on an empty street, parking lot or deck where you may be targeted by burglars. The locksmith should meet you in a safe place if you can.

4. Key fobs or transponders damaged

Car key fobs, like any other electronic device, may malfunction in time. This could pose a huge issue for car owners who not be able to start their vehicles or open their doors. If this happens, it's crucial to speak with a professional locksmith to resolve the problem.

When your key fob or transponder fails to turn your engine on, it is a common indication that it's malfunctioning. This could be due to a number of reasons, including malfunctioning or dead key chip.

You can resolve the issue by replacing the batteries in your key fob. If this doesn't work then you may have to visit a local auto shop or dealership to get the chip or fob replaced.

Physical damage can also be a reason for an unresponsive fob. This can be caused by cracks or breaks in the key shell, worn out contacts, or other factors that affect the internal function of the key fob. It is essential to get the key replaced or repaired in the earliest time possible in order to avoid having it lead to other issues with your vehicle.

It's an awful experience to be locked out of your car So it's essential to ensure that this doesn't happen again. Implementing a system that involves double-checking to ensure you have your keys when you leave your vehicle can help avoid this issue. You can also help you to get into your vehicle by keeping a spare key in an easily accessible, safe location. Call us to set up an appointment with a locksmith if you've experienced any of these issues with your key fobs or locks.

5. You've accidentally threw your keys inside

It's easy to lose your keys in the car when you're running through the day. Be calm and try to determine how you got locked out of your car. You can avoid a repeat of the same situation by recalling what you did.

The best way to prevent accidentally locking your keys inside is to make sure you have a spare key on hand. You can store it in a place that you or someone else you trust can easily access or have a friend keep one at home or work or make use of a lockout tool. Some automakers offer services that allow you to unlock your vehicle remotely. However, these usually require a subscription.

car opening service can also contact a roadside assistance service, like AAA or the roadside assistance program of your automaker. Moody states that these assistance programs can often come to your aid for a flat rate. Some automakers provide owners these programs at no cost, such as GM's OnStar and Mercedes-Benz Mbrace.

If you don't have an extra key or roadside assistance plan, calling local authorities can be a good alternative. But, make sure you only contact emergency services when you or someone else is in danger. You may be fined or even face legal action if you misuse emergency services. It is also crucial to assess the urgency of the situation prior to when you call for help in order to determine which option is the most appropriate. To avoid getting locked out of your vehicle in the future, make sure you check everything prior to getting back inside and try to avoid rushing when exiting your vehicle. This will help you ensure that you remember to lock any doors or windows and ensure that your vehicle is safe while in transit.