7 Things About Car Lockouts Youll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
Preventing Car Lockouts
Lockouts in cars can be frustrating and stressful. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid them.
The first step to take is to remain calm. Assess the situation carefully. Panicking can cloud your judgment and make it more difficult to come up with an answer. Contact help if you need it. This is the most reliable and least damaging option.
Make sure you have your keys in order prior to leaving the Car
Getting locked out of the car is among the most frequent issues drivers experience. Unfortunately, it occurs when you least expect it to, which can result in a lot of frustration and stress. There are steps you can take to avoid this happening again.
Make sure to check all the doors in your car for your keys before you panic. Also, empty your pockets and bags in case your keys were dropped accidentally. And lastly, look back over your day to determine if you accidentally dropped your keys or reached into your bag to grab something to take them off the ground.
Many people try DIY methods for regaining access to their vehicles after they are locked out, such as using coat hangers or bobby pins for picking the lock. However these methods are typically risky and could damage the windows or locks of your vehicle. Modern vehicles also come with advanced alarms and lock systems that will start if these devices are used to gain access to the vehicle.
It's important to have a spare car key addition to a professional locksmith and roadside assistance. There are a range of different options, such as a universal car key, at your local hardware store or discount department stores. A spare key will allow you to get into your car quickly and easily when you are stuck in a tight spot.
If you're the first owner of a vehicle or bought your vehicle as a pre-owned certified model, you could get roadside assistance via the website of the manufacturer or dealer. 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 smartphone and connect to a professional locksmith or towing service in your area to assist you in a time of need. In contrast to traditional roadside help clubs, HONK does not charge membership fees or upfront costs. You will also be aware of the cost of the service prior to when it is delivered.
Keep an extra key handy
A spare key is the ideal method to avoid car lockouts. It gives you a way to gain access to your vehicle if your primary key is lost, and it can save you the stress of calling emergency locksmith services for assistance.
It can be frustrating to find yourself locked out of your vehicle, but you should remain calm and rational to determine the best option. Roadside assistance can open your vehicle without causing damage. If you don't have a roadside assistance plan, however, you can try calling a locksmith instead.
car opener service is to keep one spare key at your workplace or in your home. This is a great option for those who share cars or have shared homes, as it can make it easier to manage schedules and ensure that all of your keys are always where you require them. You can also leave a spare key with your family member or a friend, if you are confident that they will return it to you in case of an emergency.
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 not sure where to hide your keys, you can use a key lockbox. Only you and trusted individuals will have access. You can also offer the spare key to an individual from your family or a friend who lives nearby and can deliver it to you in the event of emergency.
You should also be aware that a spare key can be worn down by the original, so it is a good idea for you to replace the spare every few months. This will prevent your primary key from deteriorating and will help avoid future problems. This can be a little tedious, but it will save you money over the long term by avoiding the need to call in an emergency locksmith.
Make use of a Wedge Tool as well as the Long Reach Tool
There are many reasons why cars lock themselves out. Some car lockouts result from human error, while others are caused by technical issues. Regardless of the reason, it is important to take every step to stop these incidents from occurring in the first place. There are few tools that you can keep in your bag to help you avoid getting locked out of your car.
You can use a wedge to create a space between the door frame of the vehicle and its body. This lets you move rods or straightened wire clothes hanger through the gap, enabling you to trigger the door handle inside or lock button. This technique can be difficult to utilize in a tiny space.
Another option is to purchase a device that has a long reach, specifically designed for car lockouts. Many of these tools have an elastic cover that can be used to prevent damage to the weather stripping, paint and the edges of the car door during the lockout. The sleeve also serves to protect your hands and fingers while using the long-reach tool.
The majority of these tools are pre-bent into common configurations, allowing instant access to most situations with no further modification. Some even have a contrasting color, making them easy to locate in dim light. For maximum versatility, you can try the Ultimate Long Reach Tool Kit that includes four of the most sought-after long-reach tools, as well as a Button Master and Mega Master snare tool, two air wedges, a protective lockout tape as well as a slim jim windshield mounted flashlight for nighttime openings and more.
Many people try to gain entry using hangers or rods to get into their car however, it is risky and expensive. It could cause damage to the locking system of the car and the door, paint, and window. Furthermore, breaking in could lead to an investigation by the police and result in additional charges.
If there is no emergency, like small children or vulnerable individuals who are locked inside the vehicle, it is recommended to contact roadside assistance. A service such as HONK will send you an on-demand auto locksmith who can open your car safely and quickly. The app displays upfront pricing and you don't have to worry about hidden costs or negotiating with the tow truck driver.
Need Help?
Being locked out of your car is not just a hassle, it's also risky. Trying to unlock your vehicle without the right tools can cause damage that will make it more difficult to gain access to your car in the future. Professional locksmiths have the tools and know-how to unlock your car quickly without causing any damage, saving you time and stress.
If you're stuck and your keys locked in the car, it's important to stay calm and call for assistance. Don't attempt to unlock the vehicle using DIY methods you've seen on the internet; these hacks may be effective in certain situations, but can be very damaging to modern vehicles equipped with high-tech locking systems.
Towing companies in your area can provide lockout services at affordable prices. Some automakers also offer apps for smartphones to unlock vehicles remotely. If you own a vehicle from one of these automakers and have an emergency roadside assistance or warranty plan that is active and you want to know more about the app's offerings to find out more about how you can use these apps.
You can also contact your local dealership for autos to ask if they are capable of unlocking your car. This service may be provided free of charge or at a minimal cost dependent on the manufacturer and the relationship you have with the dealership. Additionally, certain non-profit organizations and community-based support groups can also provide assistance for those who are in a car lockout situation. Contact your local community centers and social service organizations to learn more about these options in your region.
It's not pleasant to be locked out of your vehicle, but it does not need to ruin your day. You can avoid this situation in the future by staying calm, calling help, and taking preventive measures. Be sure to make sure you have a spare key, if you have one, prior to leaving the vehicle and also make a habit of checking every door for your keys before closing them. If you're unable to locate your keys, leave a spare key with a trusted friend. Also, practice safe driving every time you enter the car.
