Getting locked out of your car is frustrating, especially when you’re in a hurry. Maybe you’re at the grocery store, dropping the kids off at school, or heading to work. Then you spot your keys on the seat through the window. Or maybe you lost them while out for a walk.
A car lockout in Norcross can really throw off your day and cost you money you didn’t plan on spending. Most people think it won’t happen to them until it does. The good news is, there are simple steps you can take to keep it from happening often.
This guide will help you keep your keys in hand and your car door open when you need it most.
Get a Spare Key Made Right Away
The best way to avoid a lockout is to have a backup plan. If you only have one car key, you’re taking a big risk. If it breaks or gets lost, you’ll be stuck.
Keep a spare at home by giving a copy of your key to someone you trust, like a spouse or roommate. If you get locked out nearby, they can bring it to you.
Hide a key on your car by using a small magnetic box. Put a basic key inside and hide it under the car frame in a spot only you know. You can also keep a spare key in your wallet or purse if your car uses a flat metal key.
Build a Good Key Habit
Most lockouts happen because people get distracted, thinking about dinner or a work meeting. You need to train yourself to check for your keys every time you get out of the car.
- The “Hand Check”: Don’t close the car door until you feel your keys in your hand.
- Use the fob to lock: Avoid using the lock button inside the door. If you only lock your car with the key fob, you can’t lock it without having the keys in your hand.
- Look before you close the door: Check the ignition and seats for your keys. If you see them, you’ve caught the mistake before it’s too late.
Also Read: Why 24/7 Locksmith Services Are Essential?
Don’t Forget to Check Your Key Fob Battery
Many modern cars have keyless entry; you just push a button to start. These remotes use small batteries, and when the battery gets weak, the car might not detect the key inside. This can cause the doors to lock while your keys are still on the dashboard.
- Watch for signs: If you have to press the button several times to unlock the door, your battery is probably dying.
- Change it yearly: These batteries are inexpensive, so replace them once a year to avoid problems.
- Know the manual way: Most fobs have a small metal key hidden inside. Learn how to remove it and which door has a hidden keyhole so you can get in if the battery dies.
Keep Keys Away from Kids and Pets
It might sound funny, but it happens more than you think. You might hand your child the keys to keep them busy while you load the trunk, or your dog might jump on the door handle while you scrape ice off the windows. Never leave your keys inside the car with a child or pet, even for a moment.
If you leave the car running to warm it up, roll one window down just an inch. That way, if the doors lock, you can reach in with a tool to unlock them.
Maintain Your Locks Regularly
Sometimes a lockout isn’t your fault. Locks can break, and dirt or grime can build up inside the keyhole over time, causing it to get stuck.
- Clean the locks: Use a lock spray, like graphite spray, once or twice a year to keep everything moving smoothly.
- Fix a sticky key: If you have to jiggle your key to turn it, that’s a warning sign. Get a new key cut before the old one breaks inside the lock.
- Check the door latches: If your door is hard to close, the locking system might be failing. Have a professional take a look.
Use the Apps on Your Phone
If you have a newer car, you might have a phone app that connects to your vehicle. These apps can be a big help if you get locked out.
- Download the app: Most car brands offer an app that lets you unlock your doors from your phone.
- Keep your phone charged: The app won’t help if your phone is dead.
- Roadside help: See if your insurance or car brand offers free lockout assistance. Save that phone number in your contacts.
What to Do if You are Still Locked Out?
Even if you’re careful, mistakes happen. If you find yourself locked out, don’t panic.
- Check all doors: It sounds simple, but check the passenger doors and trunk. Sometimes one is left unlocked.
- Call for help: If you’re in a dangerous spot or it’s very hot, call for help right away.
- Don’t break the window: Replacing a car window usually costs more than calling a locksmith. Plus, broken glass is messy and dangerous.
- Don’t use a coat hanger: Newer cars have side airbags and wires inside the doors. Using a wire hanger could cause hundreds of dollars in damage to your locks or windows.
Why Trust Super Locksmith?
At Super Locksmith, our team knows how stressful it is to be stuck. We see people dealing with car lockouts in Norcross every day. Our experts use the right tools to open your car without causing scratches or damage. We don’t just open doors; we also make spare keys and fix broken fobs on the spot.
If you need lockout help or just want to get a spare key made so you never have to worry again, give us a call. We are happy to help you stay safe on the road.
