Have you ever found yourself stranded in a parking lot, frantically searching your pockets for your car keys? You’re not alone. According to a recent survey, nearly 4 million Americans lock themselves out of their vehicles each year.
It’s a frustrating and stressful experience that can happen to anyone, but what if we told you that it’s also preventable? That’s right! As the premier mobile locksmith service in St. Louis, Reliable Guys Towing Service has helped countless drivers get back on the road quickly and safely. We’ve seen it all, from forgotten keys to malfunctioning locks, and we’re here to share our expert tips and tricks for avoiding lockouts altogether.
So, whether you’re a busy professional, a harried parent, or a student on the go, keep reading to discover the simple steps you can take to ensure you never get locked out of your car again. And if you ever do find yourself in an unfortunate situation like this, remember that Reliable Guys Towing Service is just a phone call away at (314) 325-1016!
Locked Out of Your Car: The Common Reasons
There are several scenarios that can result in people inadvertently locking themselves out of their vehicles. One of the most frequent reasons is absent-mindedness – accidentally leaving your keys inside the car. It’s a simple mistake that can happen to anyone, especially when you’re distracted or in a hurry. You might be preoccupied with gathering your belongings, wrangling children, or talking on the phone, and before you know it, you’ve closed the door with your keys still inside.
Misplacing or losing your keys entirely is another typical cause of lockouts. Perhaps they slipped out of your pocket without you noticing, or you set them down somewhere and can’t remember where. Regardless of how it happens, a lost set of keys can be a real pain to deal with.
Sometimes, the problem lies with the car itself. Over time, locks can become worn or damaged due to exposure to the elements or general wear and tear. This can make it tricky or even impossible to get your key into the lock, leaving you stranded.
Lastly, if your vehicle has a key fob with a battery, a dead battery can prevent the fob from communicating with your car to unlock it remotely. This is an easy issue to overlook, but it can be just as inconvenient as any other type of lockout.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Getting Locked Out of Your Car
Develop a Routine
One of the best ways to prevent getting locked out of your car is to develop a routine that ensures you always have your keys with you. This might mean keeping your keys on a keychain or lanyard that you always wear or always placing them in the same pocket or bag.
Get in the habit of checking for your keys before exiting your vehicle. Take a moment to pat your pockets or check your purse before closing the door behind you.
Keep a Spare Key
Another smart strategy is to keep a spare key in a safe place. You could give a spare to one of your family member or a friend whom you can call in case you get yourself locked out.
Maintain Your Locks and Keys
Regular maintenance of your locks and keys can also help prevent lockouts. If your keys are worn out or damaged, replace them before they break off in the lock. Lubricating your locks with graphite powder or silicone spray can help prevent sticking or jamming.
Consider Keyless Entry or Smart Key Technology
If you’re prone to locking yourself out or losing your keys, it might be worth investing in a keyless entry system or smart key technology. These systems allow you to unlock your car using a code or your smartphone, eliminating the need for traditional keys altogether.
What to Do When You’re Locked Out of Your Car
Despite your best efforts, lockouts can still happen. If you find yourself locked out of your car, don’t panic. Here’s what to do:
Check All Doors and Windows
Before calling for help, check all your doors and windows to see if any are unlocked. Sometimes we overlook a door or window that’s been left ajar.
Call a Professional Mobile Locksmith
If you’re truly locked out, your best bet is to call a professional mobile locksmith service like Reliable Guys Towing Service. They have the tools and expertise to safely and quickly unlock your vehicle without causing damage.
When you call, be prepared to provide your location and vehicle information, including the make, model, and year. Then, wait in a safe place for the locksmith to arrive.
Who to Call When Locked Out of Your Car
When choosing a mobile locksmith service, it’s important to go with a reputable and professional company. Reliable Guys Towing Service has been serving the St. Louis area for years, offering fast and affordable mobile locksmith services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their skilled technicians can usually arrive within 30 minutes of your call, and they offer competitive rates.
Can the Police Help If You’re Locked Out?
Many people wonder if they should call the police when they’re locked out of their car. In general, the police do not have the tools or expertise to unlock vehicles, and they should only be contacted in the case of an emergency or if you suspect your car has been stolen.
Conclusion
Getting locked out of your car can be a stressful and time-consuming ordeal, but with a little preparation and know-how, you can minimize the risk of it happening to you. By developing a routine, keeping a spare key, maintaining your locks and keys, and considering keyless entry or smart key technology, you can help prevent lockouts before they happen.
If you do find yourself locked out of your car, remember to stay calm and call a professional mobile locksmith service like Reliable Guys Towing Service at (314) 325-1016. With their fast response times, skilled technicians, and competitive rates, they’ll have you back on the road in no time.
