Car Lockout Prevention Tips Every Driver Should Know
Jake King • 11 January 2025
- Develop a Routine: Always check that you have your keys in your hand, pocket, or bag before closing the door or trunk.
- Use Smart Technology: Some smart locks or digital keys can be accessed through your phone. If this option is available to you, it can provide a backup method for re-entry. That said, you should consider the security implications as well by allowing a secondary method.
- Have a Spare Key: Keep a spare key in a safe location. Some people choose to carry a spare in their wallet or purse, while others leave one with a trusted friend or family member. If your spare car key is at home, it won't help you unless someone else can retrieve it and get it to you (and they will need a way to enter your home as well).
- Replace Key Fob & Smart Key Batteries: When we talk about drivers getting locked out of their vehicles, it's often in reference to those who forget their car keys on the car seat or elsewhere in the vehicle. However, it's also possible for the smart key battery to die. Many vehicle manufacturers have backup methods in place to account for this situation. For example, you might have a manual key you can use. In addition, some makes and models can still detect the key fob if you hold it against the engine start / stop button. That said, no one wants to be in this situation in the first place. For reference, key fob and smart key battery life is around 4-6 years and 2-3 years respectfully.
A "push to start" ignition system allows you to start your car by simply pressing a button, while a "turn to start" ignition system requires you to insert a physical key into the ignition and turn it to start the engine; essentially, push to start is keyless ignition where you don't need to physically turn a key, whereas turn to start uses a traditional key that needs to be inserted and rotated to start the car.
A transponder in a transponder key is a small chip that uses radio frequency identification (RFID) to communicate with a car's computer. The transponder chip contains a unique code that allows the car to start only if the correct key is used.
Have you found yourself in a condition when you have lost your car keys, and everything seemed a mess? Probably you would have. This is why it is important to know whom to turn to in such an eventuality. If you ever face such a situation, then you need an auto locksmith to help you in this condition. Why you need an automotive locksmith? Such conditions, when you are unable to open your car doors can occur anywhere and anytime without any warning, and there are several reasons for this: You have lost your car keys. Your keys broke off in the lock Your wallet was stolen which had your car keys Your keys are not functioning properly due to some technical malfunction You have accidentally forgotten your keys inside the car Your ignition lock not working And so on.
Signs You Need Key Fob Battery Replacement
Ever lost your car keys just as you’re about to leave for an appointment? It may be a real frustration, but a simple solution is having a spare key. Don’t have one? No worries! Professional locksmiths are always available to assist you! Automobile locksmiths offer replacement and duplication services to ensure you’re never left stranded. These professionals can create a perfect duplicate of your existing key , whether it’s a traditional metal option or a modern transponder key. This process is quick, and efficient, and can save you a lot of trouble down the road.