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 your keys inside. You might feel helpless and panicked.
If you're lucky you'll find that a friend or family member may have a spare key that can give access to your car. If not, you might need to call an emergency locksmith or towing service for assistance.
1. Contact a family or friend member
It is possible to shut the car door accidentally when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Sometimes it happens because we're distracted. For instance, when we're on the phone to someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, being 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 stressful however, there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to contact a friend or family member. This will alert them that you are in trouble and they may be able to provide an extra key. If they can't do this, they should be able to assist you with other tools to open your car. You can make use of items such as a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if you believe the situation is threatening, such as if an elderly person, child or anyone else's security is in danger. You can call 911 and they will send an emergency crew to your location to break the window or open the door using a slim jim.
If the situation isn't dangerous, it's better to seek assistance from friends or family members before you attempt to unlock your own vehicle. This is due to the fact that DIY methods could cause damage to the door and security systems, as well as end the warranty. It is important to remember that these methods may not be compatible with newer vehicles due to their specific locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from occurring in the future, consider buying a spare key for your vehicle. These can be inexpensive for a basic metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. spare keys for cars will save you a great deal of stress in the end! You can also store them in a spot that is easy to reach, like your wallet or purse.
2. Contact a locksmith
You're bound to lock your keys in your car at some time or another. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to find out that your keys are missing after closing the door.
To avoid this, keep a spare at home, at work or in your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain they attach to their wallet or purse in case they lose their keys. You'll always have an extra key on hand and won't need to worry about calling roadside assistance or attempting to break into your vehicle.
If you don't have a spare key the best thing you can do is call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to open your vehicle without causing damage to the lock and they can even make new keys right on the spot. They will also be able to provide tips on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If you are an active member of AAA this is an easy decision; they will provide you with a locksmith fast and at a cost that is reasonable. The most comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services are able to get you into your car in a short time, but they might cost more than an experienced locksmith.
There are a variety of DIY options for opening a car without the key like a shoelace, a wire hanger, or a curved wedge. However, these methods are risky and time-consuming and are more likely to break the lock or harm your window. It is important to remain calm and only use these tricks as a last option. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, or are stuck on the side of the highway, it's important to immediately dial 911. The police will be able to assist you, or they may call a towing service to assist you.
3. Contact a towing company
Next, you need to contact a towing company. A lot of these companies are able to open 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 you know it so that you can easily contact them. They may even offer to come and help you out for no cost. You can also contact non-emergency police to inform them about your problem. You can get tips on how to get in your car and they'll provide assistance if required.
Being locked out of your car is not a pleasant experience, especially when you are stranded in a dangerous location. Always check the surrounding area before calling for help particularly if you're in a remote location or on a road that is busy at night. Examine all doors and windows if you are not sure what to do to unlock your vehicle. You might have left a small window slightly open. This may allow you to gain access.
You could also try to break into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. However, this is not recommended as it could damage the locks on your vehicle. It is also important to note that most insurance policies don't cover the costs of these repairs Therefore, you should be careful before making use of any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key on hand. You can keep it in your wallet or purse or purchase a magnetic key holder and then attach it to the underside of your car. Some people even leave spare keys with a trusted friend or family member to help them in the event of need.
You can also contact your local dealer to find out whether they can help. The majority of dealers will be able to give you an emergency key so you can get back into your car. Be prepared to be asked for proof of ownership as well with other personal details.
4. Call AAA
Keep your spare in a secure location. This will reduce the chance that you'll lock yourself out. Keep the spare key in your wallet, purse or in one of the magnetic boxes you can hide on the underside of your vehicle. You could also leave a spare with an acquaintance who lives nearby or someone from your family who may be able to help in a pinch. You might also consider having your vehicle identification number, also known as VIN written on a piece paper inside the glove box to help you quickly call the owner of the car to call you if you are locked out of the car.
It is possible to call roadside assistance in the event that you don't have an extra. Moody states that certain firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Others, like AAA, will dispatch a locksmith immediately. The cost of a roadside assistance will vary depending on the level of membership you have and your coverage plan.
You can also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without contacting roadside assistance. However, these methods can harm your door and should be used only as a last resort.
If you are unable to unlock your car, you should always call emergency services only in the event that there is an immediate danger. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, are on a busy highway, or in a risky area, you should contact emergency services. It is recommended to avoid using the police and try alternative methods of getting to your vehicle. If you are a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage it will likely cover your expenses, but make sure to make sure you read the terms of your policy to be sure. If not the locksmith or roadside assistance will be your responsibility.