Tips from a Professional Locksmith
We’ve all been there — that sinking feeling when you realise your car keys are locked inside, lost, or simply not working. As professional automotive locksmiths, we’ve helped hundreds of drivers across North Devon regain access to their vehicles — and we’ve seen the same problems happen time and time again.
Here are our top practical tips to help you avoid getting locked out of your car, and how to look after your keys so they stay reliable for years to come.
Keep Your Car Keys in Good Condition
Your car key is more delicate than it looks. Most modern keys contain small electronic components, transponders, and circuit boards — all of which can easily be damaged by rough handling.
- Avoid dropping or throwing your keys onto hard surfaces.
- Don’t attach too many keyrings or accessories — the added weight can damage the ignition or weaken the key blade.
- Keep your keys away from moisture and extreme temperatures.
- Store spare keys in a safe, dry place away from magnets or electronic interference.
Why it matters: Even a small crack in the circuit board can cause your key to malfunction, leading to intermittent locking or starting issues.
Always Have a Spare Key Made
It might sound obvious, but many drivers only realise the value of a spare key once it’s too late. Having a duplicate car key can save you time, stress, and money if your main key gets lost or damaged.
Tip: Get a spare key made before you need one — it’s always faster and cheaper than replacing all keys when they’re lost.
At Key Smart Car Keys, we offer on-site spare key cutting and programming for all major makes and models.
Replace Weak Key Batteries Early
A weak key fob battery is one of the most common causes of car lockouts. When the signal weakens, your car may fail to unlock or detect the smart key — leaving you stranded.
- Reduced range (you need to be closer to the car).
- The LED indicator on the fob is dim.
- Intermittent response when pressing buttons.
Changing your key fob battery once a year can prevent these issues. We provide mobile key battery replacement anywhere in North Devon, usually in under 10 minutes.
Be Mindful of Where You Place Your Keys
Many lockouts happen not because keys are lost — but because they’re forgotten inside the car.
- Never leave keys in the boot when loading groceries or luggage.
- Keep your key in your pocket before closing the car door.
- Set a routine: always check for your keys before locking up.
- Consider a small key tracker (like a Tile or Apple AirTag) if you misplace keys often.
Act Fast if You Notice Damage
If your car key is cracked, bent, or only works intermittently — don’t ignore it. Small faults can quickly turn into complete failure.
Our technicians can inspect and repair damaged keys, replace worn-out cases, and reprogram faulty remotes before they leave you locked out.
Don’t Rely on DIY Fixes
While it might be tempting to open a key fob or replace a blade yourself, modern keys are complex and easily damaged without proper tools. One wrong move could cost you much more than a simple repair.
Let a qualified automotive locksmith handle any repairs, replacements, or programming safely.
Final Thoughts
Preventing a car lockout is mostly about simple care and awareness. By looking after your keys, replacing batteries early, and keeping a spare, you can avoid unnecessary stress and expense.
At Key Smart Car Keys, we help drivers across Bideford, Barnstaple, Torrington, South Molton, Ilfracombe, and beyond stay secure and mobile with expert locksmith services.
Need Help or Advice?
If you’re worried about your car key’s condition or want a spare made, our team is ready to help. We provide mobile, same-day key replacement and programming across North Devon.
Call us on 07723 373061
or Request a Free Quote Online