Old Man Winter will be arriving soon and he’s not on your schedule as to whether you’re safe inside someplace warm or out in the cold. That can be a problem as temperatures plummet, as the last thing you want is to be locked out of your car in the freezing cold. The good news is that you can reduce the likelihood of this happening if you’re prepared. Here are some tips to keep in mind as we enter the winter months.
Replace Car Fob Batteries
First off, if you enter your car using a device that has batteries, make sure they’re charged before winter has fully arrived. Batteries tend to die in colder weather because they require a higher charge to function properly. But you can ensure they’re working properly if you’re confident they’ve been replaced recently.
Lubricate Locks
Keys get stuck in locks during winter months and your vehicle’s keys are no exception. If you’ve had a history of cold-weather auto lockouts and/or are concerned about it happening in the future, you can lubricate your locks with a spray lubricant to give you peace of mind. Other solutions that heat up the lock (e.g. lighter, hair dryer) can work after the key is already stuck, but applying regular lubrication can help you avoid the frustrations that come with an auto lockout in the winter.
Replace Old Keys
Similar to the first point about replacing batteries, if you know any of your physical keys are old or worn down, it might be a good idea to replace them proactively. Look for signs of rust, age, cracking or inconsistent function and replace any that are suspicious.
Keep a Locksmith’s Number Handy
A locksmith can help you replace locks and key fobs, but it’s also a good idea to keep a trusted locksmith’s phone number saved in case you’re locked out of your car during the winter. As long as there isn’t an emergency situation, they’re the quickest and best option to address your situation. They can also give you tips on preventing the lockout from happening again.
Carry a Spare
A spare key is another good option for those who regularly experience auto lockouts of keys stuck in the locks of their vehicles. Just as you would with a spare house key, you can give one to a trusted neighbor or friend, or keep it in a secret area of your purse or wallet.
Prepare, Just In Case
Finally, make sure you know what to do if you need an emergency locksmith in Dallas-Fort Worth. There are resources (like this blog) that provide best practices for different situations, as well as steps to take during a locksmith emergency. Do your research, just in case! If you’re interested in more auto security tips, stop by any of our A-1 Locksmith locations in Dallas-Fort Worth and we’ll be happy to help.
