A car lockout can quickly turn into a stressful and frustrating experience. Whether you’ve misplaced your keys or accidentally left them in the car, it can delay your plans. Luckily, there are easy steps you can take to prevent lockouts. In this guide, we’ll share some tips to help you avoid getting locked out.
Remember to Check for Keys Before Locking the Door
One of the leading causes of car lockouts is leaving your keys inside the car. Before locking the doors, always double-check that you have your keys with you. Check all compartments and make sure your keys are safely in your bag, pocket, or wherever you keep them. Developing this simple habit can save you from the hassle of needing emergency lockout services or calling for help.
Keep a Spare Key for Convenience
A spare key can be the perfect solution to avoid car lockouts. Store it safely in your wallet, with a trusted friend, or in a magnetic key box attached to your vehicle. This simple precaution can save you from needing a locksmith, saving you both time and money.
Upgrade Your Security: Invest in a Keyless Entry System
Keyless entry systems provide a modern solution to eliminate the risk of car lockouts. With these systems, you can unlock and start your car without needing a traditional key. By pressing a button on a fob or using a smartphone app, you can easily access your vehicle. Many newer cars include keyless entry as a standard feature, but if yours doesn’t, consider upgrading to this convenient technology. It not only simplifies access but also reduces the chances of losing or misplacing your keys.
Never Lose Your Keys Again: Consider Using a Key Tracker
A key tracker is a great solution for anyone who frequently misplaces their keys. These compact devices attach to your keychain and sync with a smartphone app, so you can track your keys in real-time. If you lose your keys, simply use the app to locate them. This simple technology keeps your keys within reach, preventing the frustration of lockouts.
Be Mindful of Automatic Locking to Avoid Lockouts
Many modern vehicles come with automatic locking systems, which add convenience and security. However, they can also lead to accidental lockouts if you’re not cautious. Be aware of when your car locks automatically, especially if the keys are still inside. Some cars automatically lock when you close the door, and you might not realize it until you try to open it. To avoid this, you can either disable the automatic locking feature (if your car allows) or ensure you’re always carrying your keys when exiting the vehicle.
Enhance Your Security by Getting a Lockbox
Another option to prevent being locked out of your car is to use a lockbox, sometimes referred to as a key vault. These are compact, safe containers made to store one extra key. The box can be mounted on your vehicle (for example, beneath the tire well or next to the bumper) or left in a conspicuous, convenient spot. The spare key can only be accessed by you or authorized personnel because the lockbox requires a code to unlock. Because you can always enter your car with a lockbox, even if you lose your primary key, it can be especially helpful in emergency situations.
Be Mindful of Key Fob Batteries to Avoid Inconvenience
Although key fobs are practical, their batteries may eventually run out. Your car’s key fob may malfunction and lock you out if the battery is poor. Take proactive measures to replace the battery to avoid this. Keep an eye on the functionality of your key fob; if it becomes slow or stops operating occasionally, it’s time to replace the battery. Make it a habit to update your key fob batteries on a regular basis because most of them are cheap and simple to replace.
Never Lock Your Keys in the Trunk to Avoid Lockouts
Be careful not to leave your keys in your car’s trunk, especially when you’re closing it without paying attention. Many people lock themselves out by leaving their keys inside the trunk and forgetting to retrieve them before closing it. If this happens often, consider keeping your trunk key separate from your main car key. This simple habit can prevent you from locking your keys inside the trunk.
Be Cautious with Locking Mechanisms to Avoid Lockouts
For cars with manual locks or older models, locking the doors while your keys are inside is a common mistake. Without central locking or automatic systems, it’s easy to lock the door from the outside while leaving your keys on the seat. This simple oversight can lead to a lockout. Always double-check that your keys are with you before locking the door, and consider using a keychain with a large or bright tag to make your keys easier to find.
Use Professional Locksmith Services for Extra Peace of Mind
A lockout can still happen despite taking all the necessary precautions. If this occurs, stay calm. A professional locksmith can quickly and safely help you regain access to your vehicle. Many locksmiths provide emergency services for lockouts, so keeping their contact details on hand is important. This ensures fast access to help when needed.
Preventing car lockouts doesn’t take much effort but can save you a lot of stress and inconvenience. Simple proactive steps like checking for keys before locking, using a spare key, upgrading to keyless entry, and considering key trackers can greatly reduce your chances of being locked out. It’s also important to maintain your key fob, avoid locking your keys in the trunk, and be mindful of automatic locking systems. By following these straightforward tips, you can prevent car lockouts and enjoy a more secure driving experience.