At H&H Recovery, no challenge is too complex when it comes to getting our customers back on the road. Recently, we tackled a tricky car lock-out scenario involving a dead battery and a spinning auxiliary key barrel. Here’s how we approached and solved the issue efficiently, ensuring another satisfied customer.

The Problem

The car’s battery was completely dead, rendering the key fob useless. To make matters worse, the auxiliary key was spinning in the barrel, making manual entry impossible. With the door locked and no power, our team had to think creatively to resolve the situation.

Our Step-by-Step Approach

When faced with a lock-out like this, we always start with the least invasive methods and progress to more complex solutions if needed. Here’s how we handled this case:

Attempting Inside Access

• Using our entry kit, which includes airbags and plastic pry tools, we carefully tried to open the door handle from the inside. However, as is the case 99% of the time with dead-locked doors, the locks wouldn’t disengage without power from the key fob.

Searching for the Bonnet Release

• Next, we worked to locate the bonnet pull lever. Gaining access to the engine bay would allow us to jump-start the car and restore power to the key fob. Luckily, this step proved successful, enabling us to move forward without further complications.

Preparing for a More Involved Solution

• If bonnet access hadn’t worked, our next step would have been jacking up the car to remove the under guards and plastics. Using a power probe, we could then supply power directly to the starter or alternator, whichever terminal was easiest to access. This method would have provided enough power to unlock the car using the key fob.

The Outcome

Fortunately, we managed to open the bonnet and jump-start the car, restoring full functionality within just 10 minutes. After testing the battery to ensure it was operational, we also provided the customer with some helpful advice on maintaining their vehicle’s battery health if left unattended for extended periods.

Effortless Lock-Out Solutions: A Recent Success Story