Last Updated on February 11, 2025 by Alan Weir
12 Essential Tips to Prevent Car Lockouts
As an experienced car locksmith, I’ve spent countless hours helping drivers just like you who find themselves locked out of their cars. It’s a frustrating situation that can leave you feeling helpless and stressed. Fortunately, there’s a silver lining: there are many simple yet effective ways to prevent car lockouts before they happen. Let’s dive into twelve practical tips that can save you from the hassle of being stranded without your keys.
1. Always Double-Check Before Exiting
Before you slam your car door shut, take a second to double-check that you’ve got your keys in hand or in a secure pocket. It sounds simple, but in a rush, it’s all too easy to forget. Make it a habit to open your door and give a quick pat to your pockets or bag, ensuring you won’t inadvertently lock your keys inside.
2. Create a Spare Key Strategy
Having a spare key can be a lifesaver. Consider getting a key cut at a local locksmith and keep it in a safe but accessible place, like with a trusted friend or family member. Alternatively, some drivers opt to store a spare key magnetically beneath their car, but be careful—this could also make it susceptible to theft. Here’s a useful guide on how to choose the best spare key option for you.
3. Invest in Key Finder Technology
In today’s tech-savvy world, a key finder can prove invaluable. These small devices, which can be easily attached to your keyring, allow you to locate your keys via your smartphone within seconds. Many models even come with features that can help you track down your car if you happen to misplace it in a crowded parking lot. The peace of mind this technology offers is well worth the investment.
4. Use Keyless Entry Wisely
Modern vehicles often come equipped with keyless entry systems, which certainly offer convenience. However, be aware that these systems can also lead to accidental lockouts. Always ensure that you have your key fob with you, and consider keeping a traditional key as a backup. Remember, sometimes technology might fail, and having a Plan B can save you a lot of headaches.
5. Routine Maintenance on Locks and Fobs
Lock mechanisms and key fobs can wear down over time. Make it a point to inspect your locks and key fobs regularly for signs of wear and tear. A locksmith can help maintain these components, ensuring that they function correctly and preventing potential lockouts. If your fob isn’t registering properly, it might be time for a replacement battery or even a fresh fob altogether.
6. Be Cautious with Locking Systems
Practice caution with your locking systems, especially if your car has an automatic locking feature. Many cars will automatically lock after a certain period if the keys are inside. While this feature is great for security, it can also lead to accidental lockouts. Familiarise yourself with your vehicle’s locking behaviour, and make adjustments if necessary to avoid unintentional lockouts.
7. Educate Family Members and Friends
If you share your vehicle, ensure that everyone knows the importance of managing the keys properly. Teach them to never leave the keys inside the car, even if they’re just running a quick errand. Making it a group effort can sharpen everyone’s commitment to avoiding lockout situations.
8. Keep Your Car Well-Lit
Parking in well-lit areas not only contributes to security but also helps you see where your keys are as you get in or out. At night, it’s harder to keep track of your belongings, so making sure your vehicle is parked in a well-lit spot can reduce lockout occurrences. This is especially important in less secure areas where you might feel distracted while getting into your car.
9. Know Your Emergency Contingencies
Have a plan ready in case of lockout emergencies. Save the phone number of a reliable locksmith in your contacts, such as RevLock.co.uk, so you have a professional on hand if something goes wrong. Knowing your nearest locksmith’s availability can save you significant stress when you find yourself locked out.
10. Stay Organised with Your Keys
If you often misplace your keys, consider using a dedicated keychain or a brightly coloured keyring. Keeping your keys in the same place every time makes it less likely that you’ll lose them. Developing a key-holding habit, such as leaving your keys in the same designated spot at home, will also contribute to your lockout prevention efforts.
11. Utilise Account for Smart Devices
Many modern vehicles come with smart devices that allow you to control locks from your smartphone. If your car offers this feature, make sure you set it up and keep the app updated. Some systems even send notifications if you accidentally lock your keys inside, giving you a second chance before it becomes a problem.
12. Think About Your Daily Routine
Finally, consider your daily routine—are there particular places or activities where you often end up locked out? Reflecting on when and where lockouts frequently occur can help you identify patterns. Perhaps you tend to lock yourself out after a long day at work or while unloading groceries. By anticipating these situations, you can adjust your habits accordingly, making it less likely for a lockout to happen.
Lockouts can feel like a preposterous mix of misfortune and simple oversight, but they don’t have to be part of your life. The next time you’re hustling to get out the door or rushing to get into your car, remember these tips to keep the stress of accidental lockouts at bay. After all, a little extra effort in preparation can save you a lot of time and frustration down the road.
Alan Weir – Master Locksmith with 30+ Years of Experience
Alan Weir is the founder of Weir Locksmiths and a Master Locksmith with over three decades of experience. Renowned for his expertise in home and automotive security, Alan has built a reputation for providing reliable and innovative locksmith solutions across the UK.
A certified member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), Alan specialises in residential, commercial and automotive locksmith services including car key replacement, transponder programming, and advanced security systems. His dedication to the field has earned him thousands of satisfied customers and glowing reviews on platforms like Checkatrade.
Now contributing to RevLock, Alan shares his expert knowledge to all of RevLocks visitors.
