Getting locked out of your car is a frustrating situation. Whether you lost your keys or left them inside, a car lockout can be stressful and cause unnecessary delays. Fortunately, there are easy steps to avoid lockouts. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best ways to prevent getting locked out.
Don’t Forget to Check for Keys Before Locking the Door
Car lockouts often happen when you forget your keys inside the vehicle. To avoid this, always check that you have your keys before locking the doors. Take a second to check all compartments and confirm that your keys are securely with you, whether in your pocket, bag, or another location. This small routine can save you from the inconvenience of calling a locksmith.
Always Store a Spare Key in a Safe Spot
Keeping a spare key can prevent the frustration of a car lockout. Store it in a safe place, like your wallet, with a trusted friend, or in a magnetic key box on your car. A spare key ensures you don’t need to call a locksmith, saving you time and money.
Unlock the Benefits of a Keyless Entry System
Say goodbye to the frustration of car lockouts with a keyless entry system. These systems allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without needing a physical key. You can easily access your car by pressing a button on a fob or using a smartphone app. Many newer vehicles come with keyless entry as a standard feature, but if your car doesn’t have it, upgrading can offer great convenience. Not only does it make accessing your car easier, but it also reduces the likelihood of losing or misplacing your keys.
Simplify Your Life with a Key Tracker
If you often misplace your keys, a key tracker could be just what you need. These small devices attach to your keychain and sync with your smartphone app, allowing you to locate your keys in real-time. When your keys go missing, you can easily use the app to track them. This technology prevents lockouts by making sure your keys are never far from reach.
Be Mindful of Automatic Locking to Keep Your Keys Safe
While modern cars’ automatic locking features provide convenience and security, they can also lead to accidental lockouts if you’re not careful. Pay attention to when your car locks itself, especially if the keys are still inside. Many cars automatically lock when the door closes, and you may not notice it until you try to open the door. To avoid this, disable the feature or always carry your keys with you.
Use a Lockbox for Secure and Easy Access to Keys
To prevent car lockouts, store a spare key in a lockbox, or key vault. These compact and secure boxes can be mounted in hidden areas on your car, such as under the wheel well or near the bumper, or placed in another discreet, easily accessible location. The lockbox is protected by a code, ensuring that only you or trusted individuals can access the spare key. This backup option is especially useful in emergencies, ensuring you have access to your car, even if you misplace your primary key.
Be Aware of Key Fob Battery Life for Seamless Access
Key fobs are convenient, but over time, their batteries can deplete, causing malfunctions and potential lockouts. If your key fob operates slowly or sporadically, the battery likely needs changing. Prevent frustration by replacing the battery before it fails completely. Regularly changing the battery is an easy and inexpensive way to maintain reliable access to your car.
Prevent the Frustration of Locking Keys in the Trunk
Always check that you don’t leave your keys in the trunk, especially when closing it quickly or carelessly. Many lockouts occur when keys are forgotten inside. If this happens regularly, consider keeping your trunk key separate from your car key to prevent the hassle.
Be Cautious with Locking Mechanisms to Prevent Stressful Situations
Older cars or those with manual locks can lead to frustrating lockouts if you lock the doors with your keys inside. Without automatic locking, it’s easy to lock the door while leaving the keys on the seat. This simple error can result in a lockout. Always ensure your keys are with you before locking and consider using a bright keychain to spot them easily.
Professional Locksmith Services Provide You with Reliable Access
Even with precautions, a lockout can still occur. If you’re locked out, stay calm. A professional locksmith can assist you in getting back into your vehicle swiftly. Many locksmiths provide emergency lockout services, so keeping their contact info on hand is important. This ensures immediate help.
Preventing car lockouts requires minimal effort but saves you stress. By checking for your keys before locking, using a spare key, investing in keyless entry, and considering key trackers, you can greatly reduce your chances of a lockout. Additionally, maintain your key fob, avoid locking keys in the trunk, and stay aware of automatic locking features. These precautions ensure a smoother, stress-free driving experience.