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.
Prevent Lockouts by Checking for Keys Before Locking the Door
A frequent cause of car lockouts is leaving your keys inside the vehicle. To prevent this, always double-check that you have your keys before locking the doors. Make sure to check all compartments and confirm your keys are securely with you, whether in your bag, pocket, or another location. This simple habit can save you time and avoid the need for a locksmith.
Be Prepared: Store a Spare Key in a Safe Location
Prevent the hassle of a car lockout by ensuring you always have a spare key. Keep it safely stored, whether in your wallet, with a family member, or in a magnetic key box on your car. With a spare key, you can avoid both the delay and the cost of needing a locksmith.
Invest in a Keyless Entry System for Improved Access Control
Avoid the inconvenience of car lockouts with a keyless entry system. These systems let you unlock and start your vehicle without needing a physical key. With just a press of a button on a fob or through a smartphone app, you can easily access your car. While many newer cars are equipped with keyless entry, upgrading is a great option if your car doesn’t have it. This upgrade not only simplifies car access but also decreases the chances of misplacing or losing your keys.
Keep Your Keys Always Within Reach with a Key Tracker
Losing keys happens to everyone, but a key tracker offers an easy way to find them. These small devices attach to your keychain and sync with a smartphone app, allowing you to track your keys in real-time. If you can’t find your keys, use the app to locate them. This helpful technology ensures your keys are always within reach, reducing the chance of lockouts.
Be Mindful of Automatic Locking to Keep Your Car Accessible
While automatic locking features in modern cars offer security and ease, they can also cause accidental lockouts if you’re not cautious. Pay attention to when your car locks itself, especially if the keys are inside. Many cars lock automatically when the door closes, and you may not realize it until you try to open the door. To prevent this, disable the feature or carry your keys with you when leaving the car.
A Lockbox is a Simple Way to Enhance Your Security
To avoid the hassle of a lockout, consider storing a spare key in a lockbox, or key vault. These small, secure devices can be mounted in discreet areas on your vehicle, such as under the wheel well or near the bumper, or placed in another easily accessible spot. The lockbox requires a code to open, ensuring that only you or authorized individuals can access the spare key. It’s a great solution for emergencies, providing a backup if you misplace your primary key.
Be Mindful of Key Fob Battery Health for Smooth Entry
Key fobs provide convenience, but as their batteries wear down over time, malfunctions and lockouts may occur. If your key fob is acting slowly or sporadically, replace the battery. Change it before it fails completely to avoid issues. Regularly replacing the battery ensures dependable access to your car and is a cost-effective solution.
Keep Your Keys With You to Prevent Locking Them in the Trunk
Avoid leaving your keys in the trunk, especially when closing it quickly or carelessly. Many people lock themselves out by forgetting to grab their keys before closing the trunk. If this is a frequent issue, try keeping your trunk key separate from your car key to prevent inconvenience.
Be Careful with Locking Mechanisms to Keep Your Keys Safe
Locking the doors with your keys inside can be a frustrating mistake, particularly for older cars or manual locks. Without automatic locking, it’s easy to lock the door and leave the keys on the seat. This simple mistake often results in a lockout. Make it a routine to check for your keys before locking, and use a large, bright keychain tag for quick spotting.
Hire Professional Locksmith Services for Ultimate Peace of Mind
Despite all precautions, a lockout may occur. If it happens, stay calm. A professional locksmith can quickly help you get back into your vehicle. Many locksmiths offer emergency lockout services, so having their contact details readily available ensures immediate assistance.
Preventing car lockouts is easy but can save you a lot of stress. By checking for your keys before locking, using a spare key, investing in keyless entry, and considering key trackers, you can 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 safer, hassle-free driving experience.