How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your vehicle only to realize that you've locked the keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that can leave you feeling panicked and helpless.
If you're lucky you'll find a family or friend member will have a spare key that can allow you access to your vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you might need to call an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Contact a family member, or friend
Sometimes we rush to get somewhere and accidentally close the car door without thinking. Sometimes, we are distracted. For instance, if we're talking on the phone to someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car is no fun. It's even worse when you don't have an extra key. It can be a stressful experience however the good news is that there are effective ways to regain access.
Call a family member or friend. This will inform them that you're in trouble and they could even bring an extra car key. If they can't however, they'll be able to assist you by using other tools to unlock your vehicle. This could include items such as a doorstop, coat hanger wire or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is dangerous, such as if an elderly person, a child or any other person's safety is in danger. You can call 911 and they will send an emergency crew to your home to break the window or open the door with a small jim.
If the situation is not risky, it is recommended to wait until a professional can help you unlock your vehicle. DIY methods may cause damage to the door and also activate security systems or void your warranty. It is important to remember that these methods might not be compatible with newer automobiles due to their unique locking mechanisms.
Consider buying a spare car key to stop this from repeating itself. These are usually inexpensive for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. They can save you much stress in the long term! You can also keep them in a spot where they are easily accessible, such as your purse or wallet.
2. Call an expert locksmith
You're likely to put your keys in your car at some point. Whether you were in a hurry or just distracted, it can be an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize that the door has been shut and your keys aren't to be found.
To avoid this scenario Keep a spare at home, your workplace or in your gym bag. Many people also 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 hand in a hurry and won't have to worry about the potential embarrassment of having to call for roadside assistance or breaking into your own vehicle.
If you don't own a spare, it is best to call a professional locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and can even make new keys on site. They'll also be able provide tips on how to avoid getting locked out of your car in the future.
If you are an active member of AAA it's an obvious option; they can send you a locksmith quickly and at a reasonable price. The most comprehensive insurance policies for automobiles also provide roadside assistance. These services are able to get you into your car quickly, but they may cost more than a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY options for opening a car without the key for example, a shoelace, wire hanger or a curved wedge. However, these techniques aren't always safe and efficient and are more likely to damage the lock or damage your window. It is crucial to remain calm and use these tricks only as a last option. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, or are stuck on the side of a highway, you should call 911 immediately. You can seek assistance from the police or can arrange for a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to contact an towing service. A majority of these services will unlock your car's doors without harming it. If you are a roadside assistance customer, ensure that the number is programmed in your phone or you know it so that you can call them quickly. They might even offer to help you out for free. You can also contact non-emergency police and tell them about the issue. They can give you tips for getting into your car and will dispatch someone to assist if required.
Being locked out of your car is never fun, especially when you are stranded in an unsafe environment. Always check the surroundings before calling for help, especially if you are in a foreign location or on a busy road at night. If you are unsure about how to unlock your car, it is essential to examine all the doors and windows. It could be that you've left a window slightly open, which could allow you access.
Another alternative is to hack into your car with tools like a slim jim. But, this isn't recommended and can damage the locks on your car. It is important to note that the majority of insurance policies will not cover the cost of these repairs, so you should always be careful before making use of any device to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your purse or wallet. You can either keep it in your purse or wallet or purchase a magnetic keys holder and stick it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people even leave spare keys with a trusted family member so that they can rescue them if needed.
You can also contact your local dealer and ask if they can help you out. The majority of dealers will give you an emergency key so you can get back into your vehicle. They may require proof of ownership along with other personal information and you should be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep your spare in a secure location. This makes it less likely you'll lock yourself out. Stash a spare in your wallet, purse or one of the magnetic boxes that can be hidden on the underside of your car. You can also leave a spare in the hands of an acquaintance who lives near by or a family member who might be able to help you in a pinch. You may also think about having your vehicle's identification number, or VIN, written on a piece paper in the glove box to be able to quickly call the owner of the car on the phone when you are locked out of your car.
You can call roadside help in the event that you don't have an extra. get a spare car key made specialize in unlocking cars and will send technicians to your location within a half hour or so, says Moody. Some companies, like AAA, will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of a roadside assistance will depend on the level of membership you have and your insurance plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to open your car without contacting roadside assistance. These methods can cause damage to the door and should be used only as a last resort.
If you're unable to unlock your car You should always call for emergency assistance only if there is a immediate risk. This includes if there are pets or children inside the vehicle, you're trapped in an active road or your vehicle is in a dangerous area. It is best to avoid contacting the police and try alternative methods of getting to your car. If you're a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage, this will probably cover your costs, but make sure you read the conditions of your policy to be sure. If not, you'll be required pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside assistance.