How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your vehicle and realize you've locked the keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that can make you feel in a state of panic and overwhelmed.
If you're fortunate, one of your family members or friends may have an additional key that could give 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. Contact a family or friend member
It is possible to shut the car door accidentally when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Other times it happens when we're distracted, such as when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio program 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. It's even more stressful when you don't have an extra key. It can be extremely stressful however the good news is that there are effective methods to regain access.
Call your family member or a friend. This will give them a heads-up that you're in trouble and they may be able bring a spare key. If not, they will at a minimum be able to help you with other tools that can be used to unlock the car. This could include items like a doorstop coat hanger made of wire or even shoelaces.
Contact 911 immediately if the situation is dangerous such as when an elderly person, child, or anyone's safety is at risk. You can call 911 and they'll send an emergency crew to your location to either break the window or open the door using a thin jim.
Unless the situation is dangerous, it's recommended to seek help from family or friends before attempting to unlock your own vehicle. DIY methods can cause damage to your door and activate security systems, or even void your warranty. It is important to know that these methods might not be compatible with modern automobiles due to their unique locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from happening again you should consider purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. They can be affordable for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. They will save you lots of stress in the long term! You can also keep them in a spot where they are easy to reach, like your wallet or purse.
2. Call a locksmith
It's a fact that you're bound to lock your keys in your car at some moment. It doesn't matter if you were in a rush or distracted, it can be an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize the door is shut and your keys aren't to be found.
In order to avoid this happening ensure that you keep your spare key in a safe location at home, work or in your gym bag. Many people are also able to purchase a keychain that is attached to their wallets or purses in case they forget their keys. This way, you'll have a spare key on hand in a hurry and you won't have to fret about embarrassment if you end up having to call for assistance on the road or a break-in to your personal vehicle.
If you don't have a spare key, the best thing to do is call an expert locksmith. A professional will be able open your car without causing damage to the lock and they can even make new keys immediately. They will also be able to provide tips on how to avoid being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA you can have locksmiths delivered to you quickly and at a reasonable cost. In addition, most comprehensive auto insurance policies include roadside assistance. These services can get you back into your vehicle quickly, but may cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY alternatives to unlock your car without a key. They include using a shoelace or wire hook. However, these techniques aren't always safe and efficient and are more likely to damage the lock or harm your window. It is important to stay at peace and use these techniques only as an option last resort. Contact 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your car or you are stuck on a highway. You can get help from the police or they can organize a towing service.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is calling an towing service. A lot of these companies are able to unlock your car without damaging the door lock. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies, make sure that the phone number is programmed into your phone or that you know it so that you can quickly contact them. You could be eligible for assistance for free. Alternatively, you can also contact the non-emergency police line and let them know about the issue. You can receive tips on how to enter your car, and they will provide assistance if required.
Locked out of your car is never fun, especially when you are stranded in a hazardous location. Inconvenient roads or locations at night can be dangerous and you must examine your surroundings prior to calling for assistance. Check all the doors and windows if you are uncertain about what to do to unlock your vehicle. You might have left a window that was slightly open. This may let you gain access.
Another alternative is to hack into your car with tools like a slim jim. But, this isn't advised and could cause damage to the locks on your vehicle. You should also be aware that the majority of insurance policies will not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, click here for info should be careful when using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your wallet or purse. 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 reach out to your local dealer to find out whether they can assist. Most dealers will be able to give you an interim key so that you can return to your vehicle. Be prepared for proof of ownership as well in other personal information.
4. Call AAA
Keep a spare in a safe location. This will make it less likely you'll be locked out. Place a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of those magnetic boxes that you can hide in the underside of your car. You could also leave one with a family member or friend who could be able to help you in a hurry. You may also consider having your vehicle identification number, also known as VIN, written on a piece paper in the glove box so that you can quickly call the owner of the car to call you if you're locked out of your car.
You can contact roadside assistance for assistance if you don't have a spare. Moody states that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Certain companies, like AAA, will dispatch a locksmith right away. The cost of roadside services will vary based on your membership level and the coverage plan.
There are several alternatives to unlock your car without calling for assistance at the roadside, such as using an inflatable wedge or a bobby pin. However, these methods can damage your door and should only be used as the last resort.
If you can't unlock your car, you should always call for emergency services only in the event that there is an immediate danger. This is especially true if there are pets or children in the vehicle, you are trapped in an active road or your vehicle is in a dangerous area. The police typically unlock a car for free but it's recommended not to do so and instead, try a different method of getting back in the vehicle. If you are a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage that covers the cost, but you should make sure you read the conditions of your policy to confirm. If not, you'll need pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside assistance.