How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your car and realise you've locked your keys inside. You might feel insecure and overwhelmed.
If you're lucky, a friend or family member may have a spare key to give you access to your vehicle. If not, you might need to call an locksmith or towing service for assistance.
1. Call a friend or family member
We can shut the car door accidentally when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Sometimes, we're distracted. For example, when we're talking on the phone with someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car isn't fun. It's even more frustrating 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.
The first step is to call an acquaintance or family member. This will let them know that you're in trouble and they might even bring a spare car key. If not do this, they should be able to assist by using other tools to unlock your car. You can use things like an iron coat hanger or shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is hazardous such as when an elderly person, child or anyone else's safety is in danger. They can dispatch an emergency team to your location who will either use a small jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation is not risky, it is recommended to wait until a professional can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. DIY methods may cause damage to the door and also activate security systems or even void your warranty. It's also important to know that some of these methods might not work on newer cars because they are equipped with specific locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from happening in the future take into consideration purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. They can be affordable for a basic metal key or more expensive for a smart key fob. They can help you save lots of stress in the long run! It's also a good idea to store them in a secure place that is easy to access for example, in your purse or wallet.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
You're bound to put your keys in your car at some time or another. If you were in a rush or simply distracted, it's a frustrating and embarrassing moment when you realize the door is 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 key chain which is attached to their wallet or purse in case they forget their keys. You'll always have an extra key in your bag and won't need to be concerned about calling roadside assistance or breaking into your vehicle.
If you don't have a spare, it is recommended that you call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to unlock your car without damaging the lock, and even create new keys right on the spot. They will also be able provide advice about how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If you are a member of AAA, this is an obvious option; they can provide you with a locksmith fast and at a reasonable price. The majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies also include roadside assistance. These services can be used to help you get into your vehicle quickly, however they could cost more than a professional locksmith.
There are a variety of DIY ways to open the car without keys. They include using a shoelace, or a wire hook. However, these techniques can be risky and time-consuming and are more likely to damage the lock or damage your window. You should remain calm and only employ these techniques only as a last resort. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, or are stuck on the side of the highway, you should immediately call 911. The police will be able assist you, or can call a towing service to assist you.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to call an towing service. Many of these services are able to open your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies ensure that the number is set into your phone or you know it so that you can easily reach them. They might even offer to come and help you out for free. Alternately, you can call the non-emergency police line and tell them your issue. You can get tips on how to get into your car, and they will send someone if needed.
It's not fun to be locked out of your car particularly if you're in a dangerous environment. Unknown roads or places at night can be dangerous so it is important to check your surroundings before calling for help. Make sure you check all doors and windows if unsure what to do to unlock your vehicle. It is possible that you left a tiny window open. This can sometimes allow you to gain access.
Another alternative is to break into your car using tools such as a slim jim. However, this is not recommended as it could damage the locks on your vehicle. You should also be aware that the majority of insurance policies do not cover these repairs. Therefore, you must be cautious when 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 store it in a purse or wallet or buy an electronic key holder for your car box and place it on the bottom of your car. Some people even leave spare keys with an amiable family member so that they can save them if they need to.
You can also call your local dealer to see whether they can help you out. Many dealers will give you an interim key so that you can be back in your car. They may ask you to show proof of ownership as well as other personal details, so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep an extra in a secure place. This will make it less likely you'll be locked out. Keep an extra key in your wallet, purse or one of the magnetic boxes that can be tucked away on the underside your vehicle. You can leave a spare with a nearby friend or family member who may be able help you in a pinch. You might also consider having your vehicle identification number, also known as VIN written on a piece of 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 the vehicle.
If you do not have a spare key, you can call roadside assistance. Moody says that some firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a few hours. Others, like AAA, will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of roadside services will differ based on your membership level and the coverage plan.
There are a few alternatives to unlock your car without calling for roadside assistance, such as using an inflatable wedge or bobby pin. These methods can cause damage to the door and should be used only as a last resort.
Always call emergency services when there is immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, are stuck on a busy road or in a risky zone, you should call emergency services. It is best to avoid using the police and instead try alternative methods of getting to your car. You could be covered under your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Check your policy terms to ensure. If not, you could try here or locksmith service is your responsibility.