How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your vehicle and realize you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that makes you feel overwhelmed and overwhelmed.
If you're lucky, a friend or family member will have a spare key that can allow access to your car. If you don't have an extra key, you may need to call an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Call a family member or a friend
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere and accidentally close the car door without thinking. Other times it happens when we're distracted, like when we're talking with someone on the phone or listening to a radio show and our brain just doesn't seem to be able to focus. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car isn't enjoyable experience. Particularly when you don't have a spare key! It can be incredibly stressful however the good thing is that there are efficient ways to gain access.
The first step is to call an acquaintance or family member. This will let them know that you're in trouble and they might even bring a spare car key. If not, at least they will be able to assist you by using other tools to unlock your car. You can use things like a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening like the case of an elderly person or child trapped in the house on a hot day or if someone's physical safety is in danger it is recommended to call 911 immediately. They can dispatch an emergency team to your home, who can either use a slim jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation isn't risky and you're in danger, it's recommended to seek help from friends or family members before attempting to unlock your own vehicle. DIY methods could damage the door and also activate security systems or invalidate your warranty. It's also important to know that some of these methods may not work on newer cars, as they have special locking mechanisms.
Consider purchasing a spare car key to prevent this from repeating itself. They can be inexpensive for a basic metal key or costly for a sophisticated fob. They can save you a great deal of stress in the end! You can also put them in a spot where they are easy to reach, like your wallet or purse.
2. Call a locksmith
You're bound to lock your keys inside your car at some point. Whether you were in a rush or just distracted, it's a frustrating and embarrassing moment when you realize that the door is shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
To avoid this situation, you should always keep your spare key in a secure place at work, home or in your gym bag. Many people are also able to purchase a keychain that is attached to their wallet or purse to ensure they never lose their keys. This way, you'll have a spare key at the go and you won't have to fret about embarrassment if you end up calling for roadside assistance or breaking into your own vehicle.
If you don't have a spare key, the best thing to do is call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith can unlock your vehicle without damaging the lock, and could even create new keys on the spot. They can also give you suggestions on how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If you are a member of AAA, this is a no-brainer; they can send you a locksmith promptly and at a reasonable cost. The most comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your car quickly but they can cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are numerous DIY alternatives to unlock the car without keys. This includes using a shoelace or a wire hook. However, these options aren't always safe and efficient and are more likely to break the lock or damage your window. It is important to remain calm and only employ these tricks as a last option. If you have pets or children in your vehicle, or you are on the side of a highway, you must immediately dial 911. You can seek assistance from the police, or they can organize a towing service.
3. Call a towing company
Next, you need to contact a towing company. A majority of these services will unlock your car's doors without damaging it. If you have roadside assistance, ensure that the number is set in your phone or you are aware of it so that you can contact them easily. They may even offer to come and assist you for no cost. You can also contact non-emergency police and inform them about your problem. You can get tips on how to enter your car, and they will call someone in case of need.
It's not fun to be locked out of your vehicle especially when you're in a hazardous area. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be dangerous, so you should always examine your surroundings prior to asking for assistance. Examine all windows and doors if you're uncertain about what to do to unlock your vehicle. It may be that you've left a window slightly open, which can sometimes give access.
spare remote car key can also attempt to break into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. However, this is not recommended and can damage the locks on your car. It is also important to note that most insurance policies don't cover the cost of these repairs therefore, you must be cautious when making use of any tool to gain entry into your vehicle.
One of the best ways to stop this from occurring is to keep a spare key on hand. You can keep it in your wallet or purse or purchase a magnetic keys holder and attach it to the underside of your car. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member to rescue them if needed.
You can also contact your local dealer to see if they can help you out. The majority of dealers will be able to provide you with an interim key so that you can return to your vehicle. Be prepared for evidence of ownership as well in other personal information.
4. Call AAA
As driver, you should do your part to make it less likely to get locked out of your car by keeping an extra key in a safe location. Keep a spare key in your purse, wallet or one of the magnetic boxes that can be hidden in the underside of your car. You could leave a spare with a nearby friend or family member who may be able help you in a moment of need. You could also think about writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece of paper and keeping it in the glove compartment so that you can quickly contact the owner of the vehicle in case you get locked out.
If you don't have a spare keys, you can call roadside assistance. Some companies specialize in unlocking cars and will send technicians to your location within an hour or so, says Moody. Others, such as AAA will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of a roadside assistance will differ based on the level of membership you have and the insurance plan.
You can also employ an inflatable or bobby-pin wedge to open your car without having to call roadside assistance. However, these tactics can damage your door and should be used only as the last resort.
Call emergency services only when there is immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, you are on a busy highway, or are in a hazardous zone, you should call emergency services. It is best to avoid using the police and instead try alternative methods of getting to your vehicle. If you're a part of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage that covers your expenses, but make sure to check the terms of your policy to be sure. If not, you'll have to pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside service.