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 may feel helpless and panicked.
If you're fortunate, a family member or friend may have an additional key that can give you access to the vehicle. If not, you may require an emergency locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Contact a family member or a friend
It is possible to shut the car door accidentally when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Other times it happens when we are distracted, such as when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio show and our brain doesn't quite focus. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car is no enjoyable experience. Especially when you have no spare key! It can be extremely stressful however the good thing is that there are efficient ways to gain access.
The first step is to call an acquaintance or family member. They will be notified that you're in trouble, and they could even bring an extra car key. If they aren't however, they'll be able to help you with other tools to open your vehicle. This could include things like a doorstop, coat hanger wire or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening like the case of an elderly person or child stuck in a hot room, or if someone's physical safety is in danger it is recommended to immediately dial 911. You can call 911 and they will send a crew to your home to break the window or open the door with a small jim.
If the situation isn't dangerous, it is best to wait until someone else can help you unlock your vehicle. DIY methods can cause damage to the door and also activate security systems or void your warranty. It is also important to remember that some of these methods might not work with the latest models due to their specific locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from happening in the future, consider buying a spare key for your vehicle. They can be affordable for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll help you avoid a lot of stress in the future! You can also put them in a spot that is easy to reach, like your wallet or purse.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
It's a fact of life that you are likely to lock your keys in your car at some time. It doesn't matter if you were in a rush or just distracted, it can be a frustrating and embarrassing moment when you realize that the door has shut and your keys aren't to be found.
To avoid this ensure you have a spare key at home, your workplace, or in your gym bag. Many people also purchase a keychain that is attached to their wallets or purses in case they forget their keys. You will always have a spare key with you and will not have to be concerned about calling roadside assistance, or attempting to break into your vehicle.
However, if you don't have a spare key the best thing to do is call locksmith assistance. A professional locksmith will be able open your vehicle without causing damage to the lock. They will even create new keys on-site. They will also be able to provide tips on how to avoid getting locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA you can get locksmiths delivered to you swiftly and at a low cost. The majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services can be used to get you into your vehicle quickly, however they may cost more than an experienced locksmith.
There are several DIY options for opening cars without keys like a shoelace, a wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. However, these options can be risky and time-consuming and are more likely to break the lock or damage your window. It is crucial to remain at peace and use these techniques only as the last option. Call 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your car or you are stuck on a highway. The police will be able assist you, or they may call a towing service to assist you.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to call a towing service. spare car key cutting of these companies are able to unlock your car without damaging the door lock. If you have roadside assistance, ensure that the number is set in your phone or you know that it is able to call them quickly. They might even offer to come and help you out for no cost. You can also contact the police non-emergency line and let them know about the issue. They can give you tips on how to get into your vehicle and send someone to assist if required.
Getting locked out of your vehicle is never fun, especially when you're stuck in an unsafe environment. Inconvenient roads or locations at night can be hazardous and you must check your surroundings before calling for assistance. Check all the doors and windows if unsure how to unlock your vehicle. You may have left a tiny window open. This could let you gain access.
Another option is to try and break into your car using tools such as a slim jim. This is not recommended since it could damage the locks on your car. You should also be aware that most insurance policies will not cover repairs to these locks. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to avoid this from occurring is to keep a spare key in your pocket. You can keep it in your purse or wallet or purchase a magnetic key holder and attach it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people even leave spare keys with a trusted friend or family member so that they can help them in the event of need.
You can also reach out to your local dealer to inquire if they are able to assist. The majority of dealers can give you temporary keys to allow you to return to your vehicle. Be prepared to be asked for proof of ownership as well with other personal details.
4. Call AAA
As an owner, you can take steps to reduce the chance to get locked out of your vehicle by keeping your spare keys in a safe location. Keep a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of those magnetic boxes that can be tucked away in the underside of your car. You could also leave an extra with a family member or friend who could be able to help you in a moment of need. You could also think about writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in the glove compartment so that you can quickly contact the owner of the vehicle if you are locked out.
If you do not have a spare key, you can call roadside assistance. Some locksmiths specialize in unlocking cars and will send a technician to your location within a half hour or so, according to Moody. Others, like AAA, will send a locksmith right away. The cost of roadside services will differ based on the membership level you have and your coverage plan.
You can also employ an inflatable or bobby-pin wedge to unlock your vehicle without having to call roadside assistance. However, these methods can harm your door and should be used only as an emergency.
Always call emergency services if there is an immediate danger if you cannot unlock your vehicle. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, are on a busy road or in a risky area, you should contact emergency services. It is best to avoid calling the police and instead try other ways of getting back into your car. You could be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Examine the terms of your policy to ensure. If not, you'll need pay for the locksmith or roadside assistance.