Preventing Car Lockouts
Lockouts in cars can be frustrating and stressful. There are, however, ways to prevent them from happening.
The first step to take is to remain calm. Take note of the situation. The stress of panic can cloud your judgment and make it difficult to find an answer. Call for help if needed. This is the most secure and least damaging method.
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 car. It occurs when you least expect it to, which can result in a lot of anxiety and frustration. There are steps you can do to prevent this from occurring again.
Check all the car doors for keys before you panic. It's also recommended to empty all your bags and pockets, just in case you accidentally dropped your keys somewhere. And lastly, look back over your day to determine if you accidentally dropped the keys or reached into your bag to grab something to take them out of the path.
Many people are tempted to try DIY methods to gain access to their vehicle when they are locked outside, such as using bobby pins or coat hangers to pick the locks. However these methods are usually risky and could damage the locks or windows of your vehicle. Modern cars also have advanced security alarms and lock systems that will set off if these tools are used to gain entry into the vehicle.
It's important to have an extra car key in addition to a professional locksmith and roadside assistance. In shops like your local hardware store, you will get a variety of options such as a universal key. A spare key will allow you to access your vehicle quickly and effortlessly when you are stuck in a tight spot.
If you're a new car owner or purchased your vehicle as a certified used model, then you may be eligible for roadside assistance from the website of the manufacturer or dealer. These services include assistance with car lockouts as well as various other issues. You can also download the HONK application on your smartphone to connect to a local locksmith or towing company to assist you in the event of a crisis. Contrary to traditional roadside assistance clubs, HONK does not charge membership fees or upfront costs. You'll also know the cost of your service before it is delivered.
Keep a spare key on hand
A spare key on hand is one of the best ways to avoid car lockouts. It provides you with a means to gain access to your vehicle even if your primary key is lost, and it will save you the stress of calling emergency locksmith services for help.
Being locked out of your vehicle can be a frustrating situation, but it's essential to remain calm and focus on your thoughts to determine the most efficient solution. Roadside assistance is a great way to unlock your vehicle without causing damage. If you don't have a roadside assistance plan, however, you can try asking a locksmith instead.
G28 Car Keys can also keep a spare in your office or home. This is a great idea for those who share vehicles or have shared homes as it makes it easier to organize schedules and ensure that all of your keys are available when you require them. You can also leave an extra key with a family member or friend, if you believe they will return it in the event in the event of an emergency.
Test your spare key to ensure it's working correctly. It is recommended to keep the spare key in a conspicuous place that's difficult for a burglar to find. If you are unsure where to hide your keys then you can put them in 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 close by and could deliver it to you in case in an emergency.
It is also important to be aware that a spare key can be worn down by the original, so it is an ideal idea to change your spare every few months. This will prevent your original key from getting worn out and help to avoid future problems. This could be a bit 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 and a Long-Reach Tool
Car lockouts can occur due to many reasons. Some are human errors or technical. You must do everything you can to prevent such instances. There are handful of tools you can keep on hand to prevent getting locked out of your car.
One alternative is to use wedges to create a gap between the door frame and the body of the vehicle. You can then move rods, or a straightened wire clotheshanger, through the gap to activate the inner door handle. However, this method isn't easy to maneuver through an area that is tight.
Another option is to purchase a tool that has a long reach, specifically designed for car lockouts. Many such tools have a sleeve with a flexible design that can be used to protect the weather stripping, paint and the edge of the door from being damaged during a lockout. The sleeve also protects your fingers and hand when using tools with a long reach.
The majority of these tools are pre-bent into common configurations, allowing immediate access to all situations, without any further modifications. Some tools are even colored differently to make them easier to find in dim lighting. For maximum versatility, you can try the Ultimate Long Reach Tool Kit, which includes four of the most sought-after long-reach tools, plus a Button Master and Mega Master snare tool, two air wedges, protective lockout tape and a slim jim windshield-mounted flashlights for nighttime openings and more.
Some people will try to gain entry into their cars using a rod or hanger to get back inside, but this could be risky and costly. Not only does it potentially harm the locking system of the car, but it may also cause physical damage to the door, window and paint. Furthermore, breaking in could trigger an investigation by the police and result in additional charges.
Unless there is an emergency, like small children or vulnerable individuals who are locked inside the vehicle, it's best to call for roadside assistance. A service like HONK will provide you with an on-demand auto locksmith who can unlock your car safely and quickly. The app will show you the cost upfront, so you don't have to worry about hidden charges or haggling with tow truck drivers.
Need Help?
Getting locked out of your car not just a hassle, it's also risky. If you attempt to unlock your car without the right tools, you could damage your vehicle that will make it difficult to access in the future. Professional locksmiths are equipped with the necessary tools and know-how to unlock your car quickly and without creating damage. This will help you save time and stress.
Be patient and call for assistance if you find yourself stranded in your car with your keys locked inside. Don't attempt to unlock the vehicle with DIY methods you've seen on the internet; these hacks may work in certain situations but they can be extremely damaging to modern vehicles equipped with modern locking systems.
The towing service you choose locally can provide a lockout service for an affordable rate. Some automakers have smartphone apps that allow users to unlock their car remotely. If you own a car from one of these brands and you have an active warranty or roadside assistance plan, make sure to check out their apps for more information on how you can use them.
Another option is to call your local auto dealer to see whether they can help unlock your vehicle. Based on the manufacturer and your relationship with the dealership, this could be free or at a low cost. Additionally, certain non-profit organizations and community support groups also provide resources for those who find themselves in a car lockout situation. Contact your local community centers and social service organizations to find out more about the options available in your area.
It's not a pleasant experience to be locked out of your car, but it does not have to ruin your day. You can avoid this situation in the future by remaining calm, calling help, and taking preventive measures. Make sure to check your spare key If you have one, before exiting the vehicle and keep a routine of checking every door for keys prior to closing them. If you are unable to locate your keys, think about leaving a spare with a trusted friend or neighbor and follow safe driving practices every time you take the vehicle.