A car lockout can be a major inconvenience, especially when you’re in a rush. Whether you lost your keys or left them inside, it’s easy to get frustrated. Fortunately, preventing this from happening is possible with a few simple actions. In this guide, we’ll offer helpful tips to avoid getting locked out. By following these strategies, you can save time and reduce stress.
Always Do a Key Check Before Locking the Door
Leaving your keys inside the car is a common reason for lockouts. To prevent this, always check that you have your keys with you before locking the doors. Make sure to check all compartments and confirm your keys are safely in your pocket, bag, or elsewhere. This quick routine can help you avoid the inconvenience of having to call for professional lockout assistance.
A Spare Key Is Your Backup Plan
Having a spare key is a practical solution to avoid car lockouts. Store it securely, such as in your wallet, with a trusted friend, or in a magnetic key box attached to your vehicle. This simple step can save you the cost and inconvenience of needing a locksmith.
Secure Your Home with a Modern Keyless Entry System
Keyless entry systems offer a cutting-edge way to reduce the possibility of vehicle lockouts. You don’t need a conventional key to unlock and start your automobile using these technologies. Accessing your car is simple, whether you use a smartphone app or a button on a key fob. If your automobile doesn’t have keyless entry, think about getting this handy technology. Many newer models come with it as standard. In addition to making access easier, it lessens the possibility that you will misplace or lose your keys.
Consider Using a Key Tracker for Convenience and Security
For those who tend to misplace their keys, a key tracker can be a game-changer. These small devices clip onto your keychain and sync with a smartphone app, allowing you to track your keys in real-time. When you can’t find them, just use the app to pinpoint their location. This clever technology helps prevent lockouts by keeping your keys within arm’s reach.
Automatic Locking Can Be Helpful, But Stay Mindful to Avoid Lockouts
While automatic locking systems in modern vehicles provide both convenience and security, they can also lead to accidental lockouts if you’re not vigilant. Be aware of when your car locks itself, particularly if the keys are left inside. Some cars lock automatically once the door is shut, and you might not notice until you try to open it. To avoid this, you can disable the feature, if possible, or always take your keys with you when leaving your car.
Add a Lockbox to Your Security System for Extra Convenience
A lockbox, or key vault, is a great way to ensure you don’t get locked out of your car. These secure boxes hold a spare key and can be mounted on your vehicle in hidden spots, like under the wheel well or near the bumper, or kept in a discrete and easy-to-reach location. The lockbox is code-protected, so only you or those you authorize can retrieve the spare key. It’s an ideal solution for emergencies, ensuring you can still access your car even if your primary key is lost.
Replace Key Fob Batteries Before They Die to Prevent Issues
While key fobs offer convenience, their batteries can deplete over time, causing them to malfunction and potentially lock you out. If your key fob becomes slow to respond or works intermittently, it’s time to replace the battery. To avoid frustration, replace the battery before it becomes an issue. Key fob batteries are generally inexpensive and easy to change, so it’s wise to replace them regularly to maintain reliable access to your vehicle.
Always Make Sure Your Keys Are Out of the Trunk Before Locking
If your automobile has a trunk, don’t leave your keys in it, especially if you’re closing it without looking. Leaving keys in the trunk and forgetting to take them out before closing the car can lead to many people locking themselves out. Consider keeping your trunk key and your primary car key apart to avoid this sort of situation. By taking this easy action, you can avoid inadvertently locking your keys inside the trunk.
Don’t Rush with Locking Mechanisms – Check for Accuracy
For those with older cars or manual locks, it’s important to be careful when locking the doors with your keys inside. Without central locking or automatic systems, it’s easy to accidentally lock the door while leaving your keys on the seat. This common mistake can result in a frustrating lockout. Always check that your keys are with you before locking the door, and consider using a keychain with a large or bright tag to help you spot them more easily.
Professional Locksmith Services Offer Security and Peace of Mind
Despite all precautions, a lockout might still occur. If you’re locked out, stay calm. A professional locksmith can help you regain access to your car swiftly. Many locksmiths offer emergency services, so it’s helpful to keep their contact details nearby. This ensures you can access help immediately when needed.
Car lockouts can be easily avoided with minimal effort, saving you both time and frustration. By checking for keys before locking, having a spare key, opting for keyless entry, and using key trackers, you can reduce the risk of being locked out. It’s also important to maintain your key fob, avoid locking keys in the trunk, and pay attention to automatic locking features. These basic precautions will help you prevent lockouts and make your driving experience more secure.