5 common car lockout scenarios – and how to prevent them
There’s never a convenient time to get locked out of your car.
Whether you’re rushing to work, trying to pick up your kids, or heading out for an important meeting, a car lockout can disrupt your day and trigger unnecessary panic.
In this article, we explore some of the most common ways people tend to lock themselves out of their cars and offer helpful tips on how to avoid these frustrating situations.
1. Losing keys at home
Losing your car keys at home is one of the more common scenarios leading to a car lockout.
This can be particularly frustrating when you’re in a hurry and can’t find them.
In these situations, it helps to retrace your steps and try to remember the last time you used the keys.
This simple mental exercise can often help you narrow down where they might be.
Additionally, designating a specific place in your home where you always leave your keys, such as a key hook by the door or a small bowl on your entry table, can help prevent misplacing them in the first place.
If you can’t find them after searching and asking others in your household to assist in the search, it’s possible your keys may be locked inside the car.
2. Locking your keys in the car
It’s a common mishap even for the most careful drivers: the doors lock, and the keys are still inside.
Whether they’re left in the ignition or you unknowingly press the auto-lock while stepping away, it’s an easy (and frustrating) mistake to make.
To prevent this, always double-check that you have your keys before locking your doors, especially when using the automatic lock feature.
You can also consider using a key fob holder or a keychain that attaches to your bag, ensuring that your keys stay with you at all times.
If you find yourself locked out, a professional locksmith can come to your aid.
They will have the right tools to safely unlock your vehicle.
3. Breaking your key in the lock
Breaking a key in the lock is another common scenario that can lead to a car lockout.
It often happens when someone applies excessive force to the key while trying to open the door, perhaps out of frustration or in a hurry.
Keys can also break due to age and wear over time, particularly if they are not handled with care.
If this happens, it’s best to avoid trying to extract the broken piece of the key yourself, as this can cause further damage to the lock.
Instead, a locksmith can use specialised tools to safely remove the broken key and, if necessary, provide a replacement key.
4. Your smart fob battery is dead
Another common lockout scenario involves a dead or dying battery in your smart fob.
If your key fob fails to open your car, it may simply be due to the battery running out of power.
Thankfully, this is a situation that can usually be solved with minimal hassle.
Replacing the battery in your key fob is a quick and easy fix that you can handle yourself with a replacement battery from your local store.
5. Attempted theft
Car lockouts can sometimes occur due to attempted theft.
Thieves may use a variety of tools and methods to break into your vehicle, potentially damaging the locks or ignition.
After an attempted theft, the locks may malfunction, preventing you from gaining access to your car.
If you suspect that your vehicle has been tampered with, it’s important to call a professional locksmith or your roadside assistance service to have the issue addressed quickly and safely.
How to avoid locking yourself out of your car
A car lockout can trigger anxiety, especially when you’re in a rush or stranded in an unfamiliar area.
Instead of panicking, remain calm and assess the situation.
Start by checking all doors and windows to see if any are unlocked. Look around for spare keys, such as those that might be in your wallet or bag, or even with another driver in your household.
If you can’t regain access on your own, don’t hesitate to call for professional help.
Relying on services like Auto&General’s Locksmith Assist ensures that a professional will arrive quickly to unlock your car without causing any damage.
It’s essential to avoid trying to break into your car yourself with tools like coat hangers, screwdrivers, or by breaking a window.
These actions, while depicted as easy in movies, can lead to serious damage, such as scratched paint, broken locks, or damaged weather stripping.
Worse, using improper tools could accidentally deploy airbags, creating a dangerous situation.
If you’re locked out in an unsafe or unfamiliar area, always prioritise your safety.
Stay in a well-lit place if possible, avoid asking strangers for help, and keep your phone charged so you can call for assistance.
Car lockouts can happen at the most inconvenient times, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can minimise the chances of getting locked out or causing unnecessary damage to your vehicle.
Always take a few extra seconds to double-check your keys and locks, and if a lockout does occur, remember that services like Auto&General’s Locksmith Assist are available to help you regain access quickly and safely.
Stay calm, use professional services, and ensure you’re always prepared to handle a lockout with confidence.
Click here to learn more about Auto&General’s Locksmith Assist service.
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