How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your car and realize that you've locked the keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that can leave you feeling panicked and helpless.
If you're fortunate that a family member or friend may have an additional key that can allow you access to the vehicle. If you don't have an extra key, you might have to contact an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Call a friend or family member
Sometimes we are in a rush to get somewhere, and we accidentally shut the car door without thinking. Sometimes, we're distracted. For example, when we're on the phone to someone or listening to radio. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car isn't fun. It's even worse when you don't have a spare key. It can be a stressful experience however the good thing is that there are effective methods to regain access.
The first step is to contact a friend or family member. This will give them a heads-up that you're in trouble and they may be able to bring an extra key. If not, they'll at the very least help you with other tools that can be used to open the car. You can make use of items such as a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, such as when there is an elderly person or child locked in the house on a hot day or if someone's physical safety is at risk it is recommended to immediately dial 911. You can dial 911 and they'll send an emergency team to your home to break the window or unlock the door using a thin jim.
Unless the situation is dangerous, it's best to wait for help from family members or friends before you attempt to unlock your car. This is because DIY methods can cause damage to the door, trigger security systems or void the warranty. It is important to know that these methods might not be compatible with modern vehicles due to their specific locking mechanisms.
To avoid get spare key made near me occurring in the future, consider purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. They can be affordable for a simple metal key or expensive for a smart fob. They can save you a great deal of stress in the long run! It's also a good idea to store them in a secure location that is accessible for example, in your wallet or purse.
2. Contact a locksmith
You're likely to lock your keys in your car at one moment. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to discover that keys are missing when the door is shut.
In order to avoid this scenario ensure that you keep an extra key in a safe place at work, home, or your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain that they attach to their purse or wallet in the event that they lose their keys. This way, you will have a spare key on your desk in a snap and don't have to worry about embarrassment if you end up needing assistance at the roadside or breaking into your own vehicle.
If you don't own an extra key, it's best to call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able unlock your car without damaging the lock, and can even make new keys on-site. They can also provide suggestions on how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA you can have a locksmith sent to you promptly and at a reasonable cost. Additionally, most comprehensive auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance. These services can help you get back in your vehicle in a hurry, but may cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY options to open the car without keys. These include using a shoelace, or a wire hook. These techniques are risky, time-consuming and more likely to harm your window or break the lock. It is important to stay at peace and use these techniques only as the last option. Contact 911 immediately if have children or pets in your car or you are stuck on the highway. The police will be able assist you, or they can contact a towing company to assist you.
3. Call a towing company
The next step is calling an towing service. A majority of these companies are able to unlock your car without damaging the door lock. If you have a roadside assistance plan ensure that the phone number is set into your phone or you know it so that you can easily contact them. You could be eligible for free assistance. You can also contact non-emergency police to inform them about the issue. You can also get advice on how to enter your vehicle, and they will send someone if needed.
It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your car especially when you're in a dangerous environment. You should always check the surroundings before calling for help particularly in an unfamiliar place or on a busy road at night. Examine all doors and windows if you are not sure how to unlock your car. You may have left a tiny window open. This can sometimes allow you to gain access.
You could also try to gain entry into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. This is not recommended as it can damage the locks on your car. It is also important to note that most insurance policies will not cover the costs of these repairs, so you should always be careful before making use of any kind of tool to gain entry into your vehicle.
Keep an extra car key in your purse or wallet. You can keep it in your wallet or purse or purchase a magnetic key holder and stick it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people leave a spare car key with a family member or trusted friend to find it in the event of need.
You can also reach out to your local dealer to inquire whether they can help. Most dealers will be able to provide you with an emergency key so you can get back into your vehicle. They may need to see proof of ownership and some other personal details so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep an extra in a secure location. This will reduce the chance that you'll get locked out. Stash a spare in your wallet, purse or one of those magnetic boxes that can be tucked away in the underside of your car. You can also leave a spare in the hands of someone who lives nearby or an individual from your family who might be able to help you in a pinch. You may also want to think about having your vehicle's identification number, also known as VIN written on a piece paper in the glove box to be able to quickly get the vehicle's owner on the phone if you're locked out of the vehicle.
If you don't have a spare keys and you're in need of roadside assistance. Some locksmiths specialize in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within an hour or so, says Moody. Other companies, like AAA, will send a locksmith right away. The cost of a roadside assistance will vary depending on the membership level you have as well as your coverage plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to open your car without contacting roadside assistance. However, these tactics can harm your door and should only be used as a last resort.
If you can't unlock your vehicle You should always contact emergency services only if it is an immediate danger. This is especially true if there are pets or children inside the vehicle, you're stuck in a traffic jam or your vehicle is in a dangerous place. It is recommended to avoid contacting the police and try other methods of getting back into your car. If you're a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage, this will probably cover your costs, but be sure to check the terms of your policy to ensure. If not, the roadside assistance or locksmith will be your responsibility.