From the initial cost to purchase to the overwhelming maintenance and need to buy gas, owning and operating a car can be challenging. Unfortunately, most people are not prepared for the surprising ways a vehicle can cause stress. Locking your keys in the car has always been a problem, no matter which type of make or model vehicle you own. However, the rise of smart car keys or remote fobs was meant to decrease the risk of getting locked out. While surprising to learn, millions of people with these smart keys still get locked out of their vehicle.

With these tips, you can reduce the risk of locking your remote key fob in your car.

Always Use your Key Fobs to Lock/Unlock Doors

If you make a conscious effort to always use the key fob to lock and unlock your car doors, you will most likely keep it on your when leaving or heading to your vehicle.

As soon as you open your door to leave your car, do a quick check of your belongings. Make sure you grab the key fob is in your hand before closing the door. Then, click the button to lock all the doors and place the fob into your pocket or handbag.

Always Place the Remote Key Fob in Sight While Driving

Remote key fobs allow you to start the car without placing the key into the ignition. This is smart technology, but it can increase your risk of locking yourself out of the car. To avoid this issue, make sure to place the remote key fob in sight while driving.

Do not store the key fob in a compartment that is not easily seen. Avoid placing the key fob on the passenger seat, as well. Consider placing the key fob into your purse or pocket once you are in the car. Also, connecting a lanyard to the fob and hanging on your rear-view mirror is also helpful. Lastly, add a brightly-colored charm or ribbon to the remote key fob to help you remember to grab it before exiting the vehicle.

Replace the Batteries In Your Remote Key Fob

If the battery in your key fob dies, you will not be able to unlock your car doors. To reduce the risk of being locked out, make sure your remote key fob always has a good battery.

If you are experiencing the following issues, you most likely need a new battery:

• The lock/unlock/remote start buttons take longer to work
• The lock/unlock/remote start buttons work occasionally
• The lights on your key fob remove are dim or blinking

On average, the battery in a remote key fob will last about 3 to 4 years. Replacing the battery on your own is possible, but it is best to contact a local dealer to ensure it is completed properly.

Subscribe to a Remote Service

Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may be able to subscribe to a vehicle remote service. These remove services will not prevent you from locking your key fob in the car, but they can unlock the vehicle for you remotely.

Subscription services offer a few options including navigation and the ability to contact emergency personnel in case you are in an accident. In addition, subscription services can unlock your doors remotely if you are ever in need. Monthly and yearly packages are available, so contact your car's manufacturer to determine if your vehicle is eligible.

It seems everyone has locked their keys in their car at one point in time. With this guide, you can reduce your risk of locking your remove key fob in your car.