Locking yourself out of your car can be a frustrating—and sometimes expensive—mistake. Whether you’re in a hurry, distracted, or simply forgetful, it’s surprisingly easy to do. The good news? With a few simple habits and tools, you can drastically reduce the chances of it happening. And if it does happen, you can always rely on D&R Towing for an emergency lockout service to get you back into your car.
Want to avoid needing an emergency lockout service? Here are four practical tips to help you avoid locking yourself out of your car.
Always Take Your Keys With You
It sounds obvious, but in the rush of daily life, many people leave their keys in the ignition or on the seat, especially when stopping “just for a second.” Make it a rule: Never exit your car without your keys in hand. Get into the habit of checking your hand or pocket before closing the door. This simple habit alone can prevent most lockout situations.
Use a Smart Key Finder or Bluetooth Tracker
Gadgets like Tile or Apple AirTag can be attached to your keychain and synced with your phone. Not only do they help you locate your keys if misplaced, but some even alert you if you’ve walked away from your keys. These small tech tools offer big peace of mind, especially if you’re prone to losing track of your keys.
Keep a Spare Key in a Safe Place
Having a backup key can be a lifesaver. You can keep it in your wallet, with a trusted friend or family member, or in a magnetic lock box hidden securely under your car (just be smart about placement). If your car has a keyless entry system, consider programming an additional fob as a backup. Most new cars come with two sets of keys, so think carefully about where you’re going to keep your spare.
Don’t Rely Too Heavily on Automatic Locks
While automatic locking systems can be convenient, they can also backfire. If your car automatically locks when the doors close or after a set time, you might accidentally lock the keys inside. Disable this feature if possible, or at least be mindful of it. Manually locking your doors after you’ve left the car is a safer bet.
Emergency Lockout Service from D&R Towing Is Your Backup Plan
By taking proactive steps to avoid locking yourself out of your car, you can save yourself a lot of time and frustration. But if you do lock yourself out, you can always count on D&R Towing for an emergency lockout service to get you back into your car.