Preventing Car Lockouts
Car lockouts can be frustrating and stressful. There are, however, ways to prevent them.
The first step is to remain calm. Examine the situation with care. Being anxious could cloud your judgment and make it difficult to find a solution. Then, contact help if necessary. This is the most reliable and safest option.
Make sure you have your keys in order before leaving the car
Getting locked out of the car is one of the most frequent problems drivers encounter. It happens at the time you least expect it to, which can result in a lot of anxiety and frustration. Fortunately, there are ways you can stop this from becoming a problem in the future.
Check all the car doors for your keys before you panic. It is also recommended to empty all your pockets and bags, in case you have accidentally dropped your keys in a place. The last thing to do is look back over your day to determine if you accidentally dropped your keys or reached inside your bag to grab something to push them out of the path.
Many people attempt DIY methods to gain access to their vehicle when they are locked outside, for instance using bobby pins or coat hangers to pick the locks. However, these methods are often dangerous and may damage the windows or locks of your vehicle. Modern vehicles also come with advanced alarms for security and lock systems that will be activated if these tools are used to gain entry to the car.
It is essential to have a spare car key in addition to a professional locksmith and roadside assistance. In stores such as your local hardware store, you'll discover a variety of options, including a universal key. The possession of a spare key can ensure you can access your vehicle quickly and conveniently when you are stuck in an emergency situation.
If you're a new car owner or purchased your vehicle as a certified pre-owned model, you could be eligible for free roadside assistance through the dealership's website or from the manufacturer's website. These assistance services may include assistance with car lockouts, as well with a range of other issues. You can also download the HONK app on your phone and connect to an experienced locksmith or towing business near you to assist you in a time of need. Unlike traditional roadside help clubs, HONK does not charge membership fees or upfront charges. You will also be aware of the cost of the service prior to when it is delivered.
Keep an extra key handy
Having a spare key on hand is one of the best ways to prevent car lockouts. You'll still have access to your car in the event that you lose the primary key. It also keeps you from needing to call a locksmith emergency service.
It can be very frustrating to find yourself locked out of your vehicle, but you should remain calm and logical to find the best solution. Contacting roadside assistance is typically the best option as these professionals have the tools needed to unlock your vehicle without causing damage. If you don't have an insurance plan for roadside assistance, however, you can try calling a locksmith for help instead.
You can also keep a spare in your office or home. This is a great solution for those who share cars or have shared homes because it makes it easier to manage schedules and ensure that all of your keys are available when you'll need they are. You can also leave an extra key with your family member or a friend, if you trust them to return it to you in the event of an emergency.
Once you have a spare key, be sure to test it and make sure that it functions correctly. You should also store your spare key in a safe place that is difficult to find by a burglar. If you are unsure where to store your spare keys then you can put them in a key lockbox. Only you and trusted individuals will be able to access. In the end, you may decide to give the spare key to a friend or family member who lives nearby and will help you retrieve it if needed.
You should also be aware that a spare can wear down your original key, so it's recommended to change your spare every couple of months. This will stop your original key from deteriorating and can prevent any future issues. This can be a little difficult, but it can save you money in the long run by avoiding the need to call in an emergency locksmith.
Use a Wedge Tool, as well as the Long Reach Tool
There are a variety of reasons why cars lock themselves out. Certain car lockouts are due to human error, while some are caused by technical issues. You must do everything you can to prevent such incidents from happening. Fortunately, there are a few tools you have on hand to prevent getting locked out of your car.
Another alternative is to use wedges to create a gap between the door frame and the body of the vehicle. You can then slide rods, or a straightened wire clotheshanger, through the gap, to trigger the inner door handle. This method isn't easy to implement in a tight space.
A better alternative is to invest in an extended-reach tool specifically designed for car lockouts. G28 Car Keys of these tools have a sleeve with a flexible design that can be used to protect the paint, weather stripping and the edge of the door from being damaged during an emergency lockout. The sleeve can also be useful for protecting your hands and fingers when using the long-reach tool.
The majority of these devices are pre-bent in common configurations to provide immediate access to all situations, without any further modifications. Some have a distinctive color, making them easy to locate in dim light. The Ultimate Long Reach Tool Kit provides maximum versatility. It comes with four of the most common long-reach tool plus a Button Master, Mega Master snare two air wedges and protective lockout tape.
Some people attempt to break into their vehicles by using a rod or hanger to get back inside, but this can be risky and costly. It could cause damage to the locking mechanism of the car, as well as the paint, door, and window. In addition, breaking into a vehicle could lead to a police investigation and could result in additional charges.
Unless there is an emergency, like small children or vulnerable persons locked in the vehicle, it's best to call for roadside assistance. A service like HONK will provide you with an auto locksmith on-demand who will open your vehicle quickly and securely. The app will show you the price upfront, so you don't have to fret about hidden charges or haggling with tow truck drivers.
Help is available
Getting locked out of your vehicle is not just a hassle, it's also dangerous. If you attempt to unlock your car without the right tools can lead to damage that makes it harder to gain access to your car in the future. Professional lockout services are equipped with the necessary tools and know-how to unlock your car quickly and without creating damage. This will save you time and reduce stress.
If you're stuck with your keys locked inside the car, it's important to remain calm and seek help. Do not attempt to unlock your vehicle with DIY methods you've seen on the internet. these methods may work in certain situations but can be very damaging to modern vehicles equipped with modern locking systems.
Towing companies in your local area offer lockout services at affordable prices. In addition, some automakers have smartphone apps that allow users to unlock their vehicle remotely. If you own a vehicle from one of these automakers and have a roadside assistance or warranty plan in place, check out the apps to find out more about how you can use them.
You can also call your local auto dealership to ask if they are capable of unlocking your car. This service may be provided at no cost or at a cost of a small amount, depending on the manufacturer and the relationship you have with the dealership. Finally, some non-profit organizations and community-based support groups also offer assistance for people who find themselves in a lockout situation. Contact your local community centers and social service organizations to find out more about these options in your region.
Locked out of your vehicle is not fun but it doesn't have to ruin your day. By remaining calm and calling for help and taking preventive measures, you can avoid this common occurrence in the future. Make sure to make sure you have a spare key, if you have one before exiting the vehicle and also make a habit of checking each door for keys prior to closing them. If you are unable to locate your keys, leave a spare key with a neighbor or trusted friend. Also, practice safe driving each time you enter the car.