15 Incredible Stats About Car Lockouts
Preventing Car Lockouts
Car lockouts can be frustrating and stressful. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid them.
The first step is to stay calm and assess the situation with care. The stress of panic can cloud your judgment and make it difficult to come to a resolution. Then, contact assistance if needed. This is the most reliable and safest alternative.
Make sure you have your keys in order prior to leaving the Car
One of the most frequent problems drivers face is getting locked out of their vehicle. Unfortunately, it happens at the time you least expect it to, which can cause a lot frustration and stress. There are steps you can do to prevent this from repeating itself.
Before you panic, be sure to make sure you check the doors in your vehicle for keys. Also, empty your bags and pockets in the event that your keys were accidentally dropped. And lastly, go back and review your day to see whether you accidentally dropped your keys or reached into your bag to grab something to take them out of the way.
Many people attempt DIY methods for regaining access to their vehicles after they are locked out, like using coat hangers or bobby pins to open the lock. These methods could be risky and cause damage to your car's locks or windows. Additionally, modern vehicles have more advanced lock systems and security alarms that could set off if you try to employ these methods to gain access to the vehicle.
It is essential to have a spare car key addition to a professional locksmith and roadside assistance. In shops like your local hardware store, you'll discover a variety of options, including a universal key. A spare key will allow you to get into your vehicle quickly and easily in case you find yourself in a stressful situation.
If you're a new car owner, or you purchased your vehicle as a certified pre-owned model, then you may be eligible for free roadside assistance through the dealership's website or from the manufacturer's website. These services could include assistance with car lockouts, as with a range of other issues. Additionally, you can also download the HONK app for your smartphone and connect with an experienced locksmith or towing business in your area to help you in times of need. Contrary to traditional roadside assistance clubs, HONK does not charge membership fees or upfront charges. You will also know the cost of your service before it arrives.
Keep an extra key in your bag
A spare key is the most effective method to avoid car lockouts. You'll still have access to your car even in the event that you lose your primary key. It also keeps you from needing to contact an emergency locksmith service.
Locked out of your car could be a traumatic situation, but it's essential to stay calm and think rationally to come up with the most effective solution. Roadside assistance can unlock your vehicle without causing damage. If you don't have an insurance plan for roadside assistance, however, you can try asking a locksmith instead.
You can also keep a spare in your home or office. This is a great idea for those who share cars or have shared homes because it makes it easier to organize schedules and ensure that all of your keys are always where you need they are. You could also leave an extra key with someone close to you or a friend, if you are confident that they will return it in the event 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 location that is difficult to find by a burglar. If you're not sure of where to put your spare keys you could use a key lockbox. Only you and trusted individuals will have access. Finally, you might prefer to give the spare key to a friend or family member who lives nearby and can help you retrieve it if needed.
You should also be aware that a spare key could reduce the lifespan of your original key, which is why it's recommended to change the spare every couple of months. This will prevent your original key from deteriorating and will help you avoid issues in the future. This could be a bit difficult, but it can save you money over the long term by preventing you from needing to employ an emergency locksmith.
Use a Wedge and a Long-Reach Tool
Car lockouts occur for many reasons. Some are due to human error and others are technical. You should do all you can to avoid such instances. There are some things you can do to avoid being locked out of your car.
A wedge can be used as a tool to create a space between the door frame of the vehicle and its body. You can then slide rods, or a straight wire clotheshanger, through the gap to activate the door handle inside. This technique can be difficult to implement in a tight space.
An alternative is to purchase a tool with a lengthy reach that is designed for car lockouts. Many such tools include a sleeve that is flexible that can be used to shield the weather stripping, paint and the edge of the door from being damaged during the lockout. The sleeve can also be useful to protect your hands and fingers while using the long-reach tool.
Most of these tools are designed in common configurations to provide instant access to most situations without further modification. Some have a distinctive color, making them easy to find in dim lighting. To maximize versatility, consider the Ultimate Long Reach Tool Kit comprising four of the most popular long-reach tools. G28 Car Keys includes a Button Master and Mega Master snare tool and 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 by using a rod or hanger to get back inside, but this can be dangerous and costly. It could cause damage to the locking system of the vehicle, as well as the paint, door, and window. The breaking in can lead to an investigation by the police, and possibly additional charges.
It is best to contact roadside assistance unless you are in urgent need like an infant or a vulnerable person who is locked in the car. A service such as HONK will send you an auto locksmith on demand who can open your vehicle quickly and safely. The app will show upfront prices, so you don't have to worry about hidden charges or bargaining with the driver of a tow truck.
Call for Help
It's not only frustrating but also risky to be locked out of your vehicle. If you attempt to unlock your car without the right tools could cause damage that will make it even more difficult to gain access to your vehicle in the future. Professional lockout services have the equipment and knowledge to unlock your car swiftly without creating any damage, thereby saving you time and stress.
If you're stranded with your keys locked inside the car, it's important to stay calm and call for assistance. Do not attempt to unlock your vehicle with DIY methods you've seen on the internet. these hacks may be effective in certain situations, but they can be extremely damaging to modern vehicles equipped with modern locking systems.
Towing companies in your area can provide lockout services at affordable prices. Certain automakers also provide apps for smartphones to unlock vehicles remotely. If you own a car from one of these companies and have an active warranty or roadside assistance plan, be sure to check out their apps for more details on how you can use these apps.
Another option is to contact your car dealer to inquire whether they can assist you to unlock your vehicle. Depending on the manufacturer and your relationship with the dealership, this might be free or at a low cost. Some non-profit groups and community support organizations offer assistance to those who are locked out of their vehicle. Contact your local community centers and social service organizations to find more about these options in your area.
Locked out of your car is not a pleasant experience however it doesn't need to ruin your day. By staying calm and contacting 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, prior to exiting 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 and you don't have a spare, leave it with a neighbor or trusted friend. Also, make sure you practice safe driving every time you enter the car.