7 Things About Car Lockouts You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
Preventing Car Lockouts
Car lockouts can be stressful and frustrating. There are ways to avoid them.
The first step to take is to remain calm. Examine the situation with care. The stress of panic could cloud your judgment and make it more difficult to come up with a solution. Get help if you need it. This is the most reliable and safest option.
Make sure you have your keys in order prior to leaving the Car
One of the most common issues drivers face is being locked out of their vehicle. Unfortunately, it occurs when you least expect it, which can result in a lot of anxiety and frustration. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make sure this issue doesn't happen again happening in the future.
Check all your car doors for keys before you panic. Also, empty your pockets and bags in the event that your keys are accidentally dropped. Lastly, walk back through your day to determine if you could have accidentally set the keys down or reached into your bag to grab something and put them out of the way.
Many people try DIY methods to gain access to their vehicle when they are locked outside, like using bobby pins or coat hangers to pick the locks. These methods are risky and damage your car's locks or windows. Modern vehicles also have advanced alarms and lock systems that will be activated if these tools are used to gain entry to the car.
It is essential to have an extra car key in addition to a professional locksmith and roadside assistance. You can find a wide range of different alternatives, like an universal car key in shops like your local hardware store or discount department stores. Having a spare key will make sure you get into your car quickly and conveniently when you're stuck in a tight spot.
If you are a new car owner or bought your vehicle as a certified pre-owned model, you could be eligible for free roadside assistance through the manufacturer's website or dealership. These assistance services may include assistance with car lockouts as well as a variety of other issues. Additionally, 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 times of need. Contrary to traditional roadside assistance clubs, HONK does not charge membership fees or upfront costs. You will also know the cost of your service before it arrives.
Keep a Spare Key on the go
Having a spare key at hand is one of the best ways to avoid car lockouts. It allows you to gain access to your vehicle even if your primary key is lost, and can save you the headache of calling emergency locksmith services to get help.
Getting locked out of your car could be a stressful experience, but it's crucial to remain calm and focus on your thoughts to find the most efficient solution. Contacting roadside assistance is typically the best option, as they have the tools to unlock your vehicle without causing damage. If you don't have an emergency roadside assistance plan however, you could try calling a locksmith instead.
Another option is to keep an extra key in your office or home. This is an excellent option for those who live in shared homes or vehicles, as it makes it easier to manage schedules. You can also leave the spare key with a family member, so long as you trust them to return the key to you in an emergency situation.
Test your spare key to ensure it's working properly. It is recommended to store the spare key in an inconspicuous place that's difficult for a burglar to find. If you're unsure of where to store your spare key, think about using a key lockbox that only you and other trusted individuals have access to. In the end, you may prefer to give the spare key to a friend or family member who lives nearby and is able to bring it to you if required.
It is also important to be aware that a spare key can be worn down by the original, so it is recommended to replace the spare every few months. This will prevent your original key from becoming worn down and can prevent future problems. This can be a little tedious, but it will save you money in the long run by preventing you from needing to hire an emergency locksmith.
Make use of a Wedge Tool as well as the Long Reach Tool
Car lockouts occur for many reasons. Some car lockouts are due to human error, while some are caused by technical issues. Regardless of the reason, it is important to do everything possible to stop these incidents from happening in the first place. There are few tools that you have on hand to prevent getting locked out of your vehicle.
A wedge can be used to create a space between the door frame of the vehicle and the body. Then, you can move a rod, or a straightened wire clotheshanger, through the gap to activate the inner door handle. However, this technique isn't easy to maneuver in the tight spaces.
An alternative is to invest in an instrument that has a long reach designed for car lockouts. Many of these tools include a sleeve that is flexible that can be used to protect the paint, weather stripping and edge of the door from being damaged during the lockout. The sleeve can also be useful to protect your fingers and hands when using the long-reach tool.
The majority of these devices are pre-bent in common configurations to provide immediate access to the majority of situations, without any further modifications. Some have a distinctive color to make them easy to find in dim lighting. The Ultimate Long Reach Tool Kit provides maximum flexibility. It includes four of the most common long-reach tool plus a Button Master, Mega Master snare two air wedges and a protective lockout tape.
Some people attempt to break into their car using hangers or rods to get inside their car, but it can be dangerous and expensive. Not only does it potentially damage the vehicle's lock system and the lock mechanism, but it can also cause physical damage to the door, window and paint. Furthermore, breaking in could even lead to a police investigation and lead to additional charges.
It is best to call roadside assistance unless you are in urgent need, such as an infant or a vulnerable person who is locked in the car. A service such as HONK will send you an on-demand auto locksmith who can open your car safely and quickly. The app shows you the cost upfront, meaning you don't have to fret about hidden fees or bargaining with tow truck drivers.
Help is available
Getting locked out of your car is not just a hassle, it's also dangerous. If you try to unlock your vehicle without the proper tools and equipment, you could cause damage to your vehicle, making it difficult to access in the future. Professional locksmiths are equipped with the equipment and knowledge required to unlock your car quickly and without creating damage. This will cut down on time and stress.
If you're stuck with your keys locked in the car, it's important to stay calm and call for assistance. Do not try to unlock your car using the DIY techniques you've seen on the Internet. These methods might work for certain cars however they could cause serious harm to modern vehicles equipped with advanced locking mechanisms.
Your local towing company may provide a lockout service at an affordable rate. In addition, some automakers have smartphone apps that allow users to unlock their cars remotely. If you own a car from one of these manufacturers and you have an active warranty or roadside assistance plan, make sure to review their app offerings for more information on how to use them.
Another option is to call your car dealer to inquire whether they can assist you to unlock your car. Based on the manufacturer and your relationship with the dealership, this may be free or at a minimal cost. Some non-profit groups and community support organizations also offer resources to people who are locked out of their car. Contact your local community centers and social service organizations to find out more about the options available in your area.
Being locked out of your vehicle is not a pleasant experience however it doesn't need to ruin your day. You can avoid this situation in the future by staying calm, calling for help and taking preventive steps. Make sure you have a spare key, if you have one, before exiting your vehicle. Also, be sure you check every door before closing the door. If you are unable to locate your keys you can leave a spare key with a trusted friend. Also, make sure you practice safe driving every time you enter the car.