Preventing Car Lockouts
Lockouts in cars can be frustrating and stressful. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid them from happening.
The first step is to stay calm and observe the situation with a keen eye. Being anxious can cloud your judgment and make it harder to come up with the solution. Then, contact help if necessary. This is the safest and least damaging option.
Check your keys before leaving the car.
One of the most frequent issues drivers face is being locked out of their car. It can happen at any moment and can be a source of frustration and anxiety. There are steps you can do to avoid this occurring again.
Before you panic, be sure to look through all the doors to your car for keys. You should also empty your pockets and bags in case your keys were dropped accidentally. And lastly, take a look back at your day to determine if you accidentally dropped your keys or reached inside your bag to grab something to knock them out of the path.
Many people try DIY methods for regaining access to their vehicles after they are locked out, like using coat hangers or bobby pins for picking the lock. However, these methods are often risky and could damage the locks or windows of your vehicle. Modern cars also have advanced alarms and lock systems that set off if these tools are used to gain entry into the vehicle.
In addition to using an experienced locksmith or a roadside assistance service, it's important to keep a spare key on hand. There are a range of different options, such as the universal car key in shops like your local hardware store or discount department stores. The possession of a spare key can make sure you access your vehicle quickly and effortlessly when you find yourself in an awkward situation.
If you're a new owner of a car or purchased it as a certified pre-owned model, you may be entitled to free roadside assistance from the manufacturer's site or dealership. These services can help with car lockouts and many other issues. You can also download the HONK application to your smartphone to connect to a local locksmith or towing service to help you in times of need. Contrary to traditional roadside assistance clubs, HONK does not charge membership fees or upfront costs. You will also be aware of the price of your service prior to it arrives.
Keep an extra key in your bag
A spare key is the ideal method to avoid car lockouts. You'll still be able to gain access to your car when you lose your primary key. It also saves you from having to call an emergency locksmith service.
It can be very frustrating to get
locked keys car out of your vehicle however, you must remain calm and logical to determine the best option. Calling roadside assistance is usually the best option, since they have the tools needed to unlock your car without causing any damage. If you do not have a roadside assistance service then you can contact locksmiths instead.
You can keep a spare at your home or office. This is a great solution for those who live in shared houses or cars, as it helps to manage schedules. You could also leave an extra key with your family member or a acquaintance, provided that you trust them to return it to you in case in the event of an emergency.
Test your spare key to make sure it's working properly. Ideally, you should also store the spare key in an inconspicuous location that is difficult for a burglar to track. If you're unsure of where to store your spare key, consider using a lockbox for keys that only you and trusted people have access to. You can also give the spare key to a family member or friend who lives nearby and can give it to you in case of an emergency.
You should also be aware that a spare key could be worn down by the original key, so it's an ideal idea to replace the spare every couple of months. This will prevent your primary key from deteriorating and help to avoid future problems. This can be a little tedious, but it will save you money over the long term by avoiding the need to hire an emergency locksmith.
Use a Wedge Tool, as well as a Long Reach Tool
Car lockouts occur for various reasons. Some car lockouts result from human error, while others are due to technical issues. You must do everything you can to avoid such incidents from happening. There are some things you can do to prevent being locked out of your car.
A wedge can be used as a tool to create a gap between the door frame of the vehicle and the body. Then, you can move the rod, or straight wire clotheshanger through the gap to activate the door handle inside. However, this method isn't easy to maneuver in the tight spaces.
An alternative to this is to purchase a tool with a long reach designed for car lockouts. Many of these tools include a sleeve that is flexible that can be used to protect the weather stripping, paint and edges of the door from damage during the lockout. The sleeve also protects your fingers and hand when using tools with a long reach.
These tools are bent into regular configurations to be utilized quickly in most situations. Some tools come with in a different color to make them easier to find in dim light. For maximum versatility, try the Ultimate Long Reach Tool Kit, which includes four of the most well-known long-reach tools. It also includes a Button Master and Mega Master snare tool and two air wedges, a protective lockout tape and a slim jim windshield mounted flashlight for nighttime openings, and more.
Some people try to break in with a rod or hanger to get into their car however, it is risky and costly. Not only can it damage the vehicle's lock system, but it may also cause physical damage to the door, window and paint. In addition, breaking into a vehicle could even lead to a police investigation and result in additional charges.
It is best to contact roadside assistance unless you are in an urgent situation, such as a child or vulnerable person who is locked in the car. A service like HONK can provide you with an auto locksmith on-demand who will unlock your car quickly and safely. The app shows you the price upfront, so there's no need to worry about hidden charges or haggling with tow truck drivers.
Call for Help
Getting locked out of your car is not just frustrating, but it's also risky. If you attempt to unlock your vehicle without the proper tools, you could cause damage to your vehicle, making it more difficult to access in the future. Professional locksmiths are equipped with the tools and expertise needed to unlock your car quickly and without damaging your vehicle. This will save you time and reduce stress.
If you're stuck and your keys locked in the vehicle, you must stay calm and call for help. Don't try to unlock your vehicle using the DIY techniques you've seen on the internet. These methods may work for certain vehicles, but they can cause serious harm to modern vehicles equipped with advanced locking mechanisms.
Your local towing company may offer a lockout service at affordable costs. Some automakers have smartphone apps that allow drivers to unlock their car remotely. If you own a vehicle from one of these brands and you have an active warranty or roadside assistance program, be sure to review their app offerings for more details on how to utilize them.
You can also call your local dealership for autos to ask if they are capable of unlocking your vehicle. This service could be offered at no cost or at a low cost dependent on the manufacturer and the relationship you have with the dealership. Certain non-profit organizations and community support organizations provide assistance to those who are
locked Out of car service out of their car. Contact your local community centers and social service organizations to learn more about the options available in your area.
It's not fun to be locked out of your vehicle however it doesn't have to ruin your day.