Lockout Prevention

By Paige Wanko | March 25, 2025

One of the most common requests amongst locksmiths are building or vehicle lockouts. So…how can you be proactive to avoid that dreaded call? This article will go over lockout prevention, day to day lock improvement techniques, and preventative maintenance measures to ensure your business, home, or car are in good hands.

Business and Residential Lock Maintenance

It is important to inform everyone in your business or home of these tips to increase the longevity of your locks. No one wants to be in a lockout scenario.

  • Day to Day
  1. Do NOT use the key to pull the door open; use the handle.
  2. Avoid aggressive opening or closing of doors.
  3. Make sure you have at least two keys amongst the household or business. 

Do not let your locks or door hardware get too worn. Usually replacing hardware is going to be double the cost of servicing. Door hardware is an investment, take care of it. 

  • Preventive Maintenance
  1. If you notice any sticking, dragging, slamming, call your local locksmith.
  2. Do NOT use graphite based lubricants on or in your door hardware. It will cause more damage!
  3. Check your locks, hinges, and door closers-if applicable, every 2 months at least.

Vehicle Lock and Key Maintenance

Car lockouts are notorious in the locksmith industry. The best combination is to have two keys that start the vehicle, and one spare door key which can range from as low as $5-$45. Arapahoe and Parker Security Centers can cut, program, and supply most vehicle, motorcycle, or RV keys. 

  • Preventive maintenance 
  1. Replace batteries in remotes or remote headed keys every 1-3 years, unless otherwise indicated. 
  2. Get to know your fob, some are equipped with an emergency key, if your battery dies. 
  3. Be intentional with your keys.
  • Aggressive actions can cause broken and/or worn keys.  Do not use your keys to open boxes etc.
  1. Again do NOT use graphite based lubricants in your vehicle locks. 

Although lockouts are inevitable, providing helpful tips can further prevent them. A car lockout in particular, you could be paying upwards of $500-$1,600 for new keys. Call today to get an over the phone quote for building, home or car services. https://arapahoesecurity.com/contact-us/

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