Can You Really Lock Your Subaru Keys Inside Your Car?
One of the most common frustrations for car owners is locking their keys inside the vehicle. It’s a situation that can happen to anyone, especially when you’re in a rush or distracted. If you own a Subaru, you might be wondering whether this scenario is possible and what options you have to get back into your car. In this article, we’ll explore the possibilities, solutions, and troubleshooting tips to help you navigate the dilemma of locked keys in your Subaru.
What Happens When You Lock Your Keys Inside Your Subaru?
Locking your keys inside your Subaru is not an uncommon occurrence. Whether you’ve accidentally left them on the passenger seat, dropped them in the back, or just absentmindedly closed the door with the keys still inside, it can be frustrating. But the question remains: can you really lock your Subaru keys inside your car?
Modern Subaru models, like those from recent years, come equipped with advanced safety features such as automatic locks, which may prevent you from locking your keys inside. However, it’s still possible under certain circumstances. Let’s explore the details:
- Keyless Entry Systems: Most Subaru vehicles now use keyless entry, where you can unlock or lock your car using a fob or your smartphone. If you accidentally leave your keys in the car, some systems may still lock the doors automatically, but it depends on your specific model.
- Manual Locking: If you’re manually locking the doors (either from the inside or outside), it’s certainly possible to lock your keys inside. Many people forget to check the interior when exiting the vehicle, especially in a rush.
- Automatic Locking: Subaru models with automatic locking systems typically have a built-in delay after you close the door. This feature is designed to prevent locking the keys inside, but it may not always work if the system fails or if you inadvertently lock the doors quickly.
Step-by-Step: What to Do If You Lock Your Subaru Keys Inside
So, you’ve locked your Subaru keys inside the car. Don’t panic! There are several methods you can use to regain access to your vehicle. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Try to Unlock the Car Using Your Keyless Entry Fob
If you have a Subaru with keyless entry, the first step is to use your key fob or smartphone app to unlock the doors. Subaru’s keyless entry system typically has a function that allows you to open the doors remotely, even if the keys are inside. If your Subaru model supports this feature, try it out.
2. Use the Physical Key
If your Subaru key fob has a physical key hidden inside (most models do), you can remove it and manually unlock the door. Here’s how:
- Remove the physical key from the fob by pressing the release button.
- Look for the keyhole on the driver’s side door handle. Some Subaru models have a cover to hide the keyhole, so you may need to pop it open with your key.
- Insert the physical key and turn it to unlock the door.
3. Contact a Locksmith
If you’re unable to unlock your Subaru with the methods above, a professional locksmith can help. Locksmiths have the necessary tools and expertise to open your car without causing damage. Most locksmiths can handle modern vehicles like Subaru with ease.
4. Call Subaru Roadside Assistance
If your Subaru is still under warranty or if you’ve subscribed to Subaru’s roadside assistance service, you can call them for help. They may be able to send someone to unlock the vehicle or assist you with any other issues related to your keys.
5. Consider Using a Spare Key
If you have a spare key, it’s time to use it. You can either retrieve the spare key from home or ask a friend or family member to bring it to you. Many Subaru models come with a valet key or an emergency key, which can be handy in these situations.
Troubleshooting: What to Do If You Can’t Get Into Your Subaru
If none of the above methods work, don’t give up. There are still other troubleshooting tips you can try to gain access to your car:
1. Check Your Subaru’s Settings
Subaru vehicles come with customizable features for locking and unlocking. Some settings may prevent the car from locking if the keys are inside. If you’re unsure whether your vehicle has these features, refer to your owner’s manual or contact Subaru customer support for assistance.
2. Resetting the Key Fob
If the key fob is not working properly, try resetting it. Some Subaru models allow you to reset the fob by following specific steps. These steps may vary by model year, so it’s essential to refer to the user manual or contact Subaru support for instructions.
3. Inspect for a Faulty Locking Mechanism
If you’ve checked all the possible solutions and still can’t unlock your Subaru, it could indicate an issue with the car’s locking mechanism. It’s best to have a professional inspect the system to identify any problems. A faulty mechanism may prevent the doors from unlocking, even when you use the key fob or manual key.
4. Use an Emergency Lockout Tool
In extreme cases, you may need to resort to a professional-grade lockout tool, like a Big Easy or a long reach tool, to unlock the car. This is typically something only a trained locksmith or technician should do, as it requires a certain level of skill and precision to avoid damaging the vehicle.
What to Do to Prevent Locking Your Subaru Keys Inside
While locking your keys inside your Subaru can happen to anyone, there are ways to minimize the chances of it happening again:
- Always Double-Check: Make it a habit to double-check the interior of your vehicle before locking the doors. It’s a simple step that can save you a lot of stress.
- Use Keyless Entry Features: If your Subaru has keyless entry, make sure to take advantage of it. These systems often include features that prevent the doors from locking if the keys are inside.
- Keep Spare Keys Accessible: Having a spare key on hand can make all the difference in these situations. Keep one at home, with a trusted friend, or in a secure location.
- Utilize Keyless Start: Many newer Subaru models are equipped with keyless start systems. These systems make it more difficult to accidentally leave your key in the vehicle since the car won’t start without the key in close proximity.
Conclusion
So, can you really lock your Subaru keys inside your car? The answer is yes, it’s possible, but the chances of it happening are reduced with modern features like keyless entry systems. However, if it does happen, there are several options to get back into your vehicle, including using a physical key, contacting a locksmith, or calling Subaru’s roadside assistance. Remember to check your Subaru’s settings, and keep a spare key on hand to avoid future mishaps.
If you’re looking for more information about Subaru features or need assistance with your car, visit Subaru’s official website or this helpful guide for more tips and tricks.
This article is in the category Safe Driving and created by EasyCarFix Team