Why Locked Out Of My Car Should Be Your Next Big Obsession

How to Get Locked Out of My Car There are many reasons that can lead you to be locked out of your vehicle. From simple obliviousness to malfunctioning locks. You can limit the possibility of this occurring by keeping an extra car key in the hands of an individual and having a roadside assistance plan, and using your smartphone in a newer vehicle. Check the door locks It can be frustrating to find yourself locked out of your car. It can ruin your entire day or put you at risk, when it happens in a hazardous place. However, there are several ways to avoid such a situation by being proactive and taking the required steps. This includes having an extra key, keeping track of your keys at all time, and installing an alarm. One of the first things you need to do is check your door locks to determine whether they're functioning properly. The most effective method for doing this is by using an instrument like a Slim Jim, which can be found at a variety of hardware stores. Use this tool with care and ensure you know how to properly use it. A coat hanger made of wire is another option. Untwist and then shape the hanger into an elongated hook and then turn it around the lock and pull it upwards to see if it opens your vehicle. This method is ideal for locks that are post-mounted. If you have them, give it a go. If neither of these methods is working, you may need to call a locksmith or towing service. They'll be able to assist you gain entry into your car without damaging it. They'll also have tools required to unlock your vehicle So, make sure you have their number on hand. Certain automakers, like GM, offer services like OnStar that can assist you in case of lockout. Hurst Towing is another option. They have experts who are trained to handle lockout scenarios. Another thing to keep in mind is that if your locks are constantly sticking or difficult to open, it could be an indication of poor quality hardware. It is important to choose hardware that is rated by the BHMA to ensure it's constructed to last. Investing in higher quality hardware will ensure that you don't risk being locked out of your vehicle in the future. You can also try using lubricants to see if it can help. Help is available Many people find themselves in the midst of an emergency situation when they realize they've locked their keys inside of their car. There are many ways to escape this kind of situation with minimal effort and expense. First and foremost, remember to stay calm; a panicked response can only cause the situation to get worse. A quick phone call to a local towing service could be the most efficient option. Most of these companies specialize in roadside assistance, and they usually have someone in the area that can assist you with your issue. They also can provide you with a tow truck if needed. If you do not have a towing service nearby you can call your local police. Previously, officers would be capable of unlocking cars using a slim jim but these days they're not likely to have the equipment to do so. Another good idea is to reach out to someone you know who lives in the vicinity. They might be able to be there to help you open the door of your car without damaging the vehicle or incurring any other expense. It is a good idea to keep extra keys in your car to avoid accidental lockouts. It's a good idea store spare keys in a secure place and give them to someone you trust to quickly locate them in the event that you forget your car keys. Alternatively, newer vehicles often have safety features that let you access your vehicle remotely using an app on your mobile or a touchscreen. You should check out the available inventory at Longo Toyota to see if the vehicle you are looking for has these features. If you are covered by an auto warranty or roadside assistance plan, you can call the dealership to unlock your car. Depending on your warranty or coverage, they might be able unlock your car for free. If they cannot, they may suggest someone who can. You can also inquire with non-profit organizations and community support services. They might be able to provide assistance at a minimal or no cost. Check the Sunroof Your sunroof has drain tubes which channel condensation or water away from the cabin to the ground outside the vehicle. If the drain tubes become blocked and the sunroof starts to get filled with water. It will then spill over into the vehicle's interior and stain the headliner. It is crucial to check the sunroof drainage system on a regular basis. It is the easiest method to pour a tiny amount of water into each drain hole that can be seen through the trough that surrounds the opening. Then, you can carefully slide a wire or similar device through each tube to clear out any debris. You can also use a blower to flush each of the tubes and clear any water or condensation. It is also recommended to clean the slides and tracks of your sunroof regularly. Use a mild, soft detergent to remove any dirt, dust or other traces. It is a good idea to lubricate slides and tracks using a silicon-based grease. This will allow them to move more fluidly. Regularly inspect the seal on your sunroof, as it is susceptible to deterioration over time. If the seal cracks or damaged, it can let water and debris be able to get into the sunroof. This can lead to other problems. If you hear any scraping or popping sounds emanating from your sunroof, it's a sign that there is an issue with the motor or mechanism that requires attention from a professional. Charles from HomeTown Auto Repair & Tire recently discovered a 2012 Toyota RAV4 with a sunroof that was not functioning properly. He noticed that the sunroof had begun to leak and flooded the cabin of the passenger. This was due to a clogged sunroof drain tube, which was disengaged from the track channel. If the sunroof isn't functioning properly, you must first try cleaning and lubricating tracks and slides. If this does not resolve the issue, you should seek out a professional technician for more in-depth diagnosis and repair. Check the Windows You can do a variety of things to prevent locking your keys in your car. One of the best ways to prevent this is to keep the spare car keys in a place that you or someone else who knows whereabouts can easily access. A lot of newer cars come with security features like keyless entry or automatic locks. You should also have a mobile phone with you to reach out for help in the event that you are locked out of your car. Another option is to find someone in your family who has the tools you require to get back into your car. This could include a slim jim or another tool such as inflatable wedges, bobby pins or even your own shoelace or doorstop. With these tools, you can open the door in a matter of seconds, which can save you from having to wait for the fire or police department. If your windows don't work correctly It could be because the door lock switch was reprogrammed. If the window doesn't move down or up when you press the switch, this is typically due to the lack of lubrication. This can be easily fixed. If the switch doesn't work Try pressing the button and slamming your door a few times. If the switch does not work you can make use of your fist and slam on a door frame or window. Be cautious not to scratch your vehicle. If none of these suggestions work, you can contact for roadside assistance to help you get into your car. locked out of my car of roadside assistance services offer a limited amount of free lockout services each year, and should be able to provide you with some tips on how to prevent being locked out of your vehicle in the future. You can also ask for help from an towing or locksmith company. They will employ their knowledge and skills to gain entry into your vehicle however, you will be charged a fee.