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. You may feel helpless and panicked.
If you're lucky, someone in your family or a friend has an additional key that can allow you access to the vehicle. If not, you might need to call a locksmith or a towing service to get help.
1. Call a family member or friend
Sometimes we are in a rush to get somewhere and then shut the car's door without thinking. Sometimes it happens because we're distracted. For example, when we're on the phone with someone or listening to radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car is no fun. Particularly when you don't have a spare key! It can be incredibly stressful however the good thing is that there are some effective ways to regain access.
The first step is to call an acquaintance or family member. This will alert them that you're in trouble and they may be able bring a spare key. If they can't do this, they should be able to assist you by using other tools to unlock your car. This could include items like a doorstop, wire coat hanger or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is hazardous such as when an elderly person, child or anyone else's safety is at risk. You can call 911 and they will dispatch a 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 damage the door and also activate security systems or even void your warranty. It's also important to know that certain methods may not work with newer vehicles, as they have specific locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from happening in the future take into consideration purchasing a spare key for your vehicle. They can be affordable for a basic metal key or costly for a sophisticated fob. Whatever you choose, they'll save you a lot of stress in the future! It's recommended to store them in a secure place that is easy to access, such as in your wallet or purse.
2. Contact for a locksmith
You're likely to lock your keys inside your car at some point. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to discover that your keys are missing after closing the door.
To avoid this scenario ensure that you keep your spare key in a safe place at home, work, or your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain that they attach to their wallet or purse in case they lose their keys. This way, you will have the spare key on the go and you won't have to fret about the potential embarrassment of needing assistance at the roadside or a break-in to your personal vehicle.
If you don't have an extra key, the best thing to do is to contact an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith can unlock your car without damaging the lock, and could even create new keys on-site. They will also offer suggestions on how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can get a locksmith sent to you quickly and at a reasonable cost. Most comprehensive insurance policies for automobiles also provide roadside assistance. These services are able to get you into your vehicle quickly, however they could cost more than an experienced locksmith.
There are several DIY alternatives to open your car without a key for example, a shoelace, wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. These techniques are dangerous, time-consuming, and more likely to damage your window or break the lock. It is essential to remain calm and use these tricks only as a last option. If you have children or pets in your vehicle, or you are on the side of the highway, it's important to immediately dial 911. The police can assist you, or can call a towing service for you.
3. Call a towing service
The next step is calling an towing service. A lot of these companies are able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you are a roadside assistance customer, ensure that the number is programmed in your phone or you know it so that you can reach them easily. get a spare car key might be offered free assistance. Alternatively, you can also contact the non-emergency police line and let them know about your issue. You can receive tips on how to get into your vehicle and they'll call someone in case of need.
Getting locked out of your vehicle is never fun, especially when you are stranded in a hazardous 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. Check all the doors and windows if unsure how to unlock your car. It could be that you have left a window partially open, which can sometimes allow access.
Another alternative is to break into your car using tools like a slim jim. This is not recommended since it could cause damage to the locks of your vehicle. It is important to know that the majority of insurance policies do not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, you must be cautious before making use of any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to avoid this from happening is to keep a spare key in your pocket. You can either keep it in your purse or wallet or purchase a magnetic keys holder and attach it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people leave their spare car key with an individual from the family or a trusted friends so that they can retrieve it if necessary.
You can also reach out to your local dealer to find out whether they can assist. Many dealers will provide you with a temporary key so that you can return to your car. Be prepared to be asked for proof of ownership as well as other personal information.
4. Call AAA
As a driver, you can take steps to make it less likely to get locked out of your car by keeping a spare key in a safe place. Keep a spare key in your purse, wallet or one of those magnetic boxes that you can hide on the underside of your car. You can also leave one to a close friend or family member who might be able to assist you in a moment of need. You might also think about having your vehicle's identification number, or VIN, written on a piece of paper in the glove box to be able to quickly get the vehicle's owner to call you if you're locked out of the vehicle.
You can call roadside help for assistance if you don't have an extra. Certain companies specialize in unlocking cars and will send technicians to your location within a half hour or so, says Moody. Certain companies, such as AAA, will dispatch a locksmith right away. The cost of roadside assistance will vary depending on the membership level you have and your coverage plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without contacting roadside assistance. These tactics can damage the door and should be used only as a last resort.
Always call emergency services in the event of immediate danger if you cannot unlock your vehicle. This includes if there are children or pets inside the vehicle, you are stuck on a busy road, or your vehicle is in a risky place. The police are usually able to unlock a vehicle for free however, it is recommended not to do so and instead try another method of getting back into the car. If you are a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage that covers the cost, but you should check the terms of your policy to confirm. If not, you'll have pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside service.