How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your car only to discover that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that makes you feel in a state of panic and helpless.
If you're lucky you, a family member or friend will have an additional key that can allow access to your vehicle. If not, you might require an emergency locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Call a friend or family member
Sometimes we are in a rush to get somewhere, and we accidentally shut the car door without thinking. Sometimes click through the next article 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 just doesn't completely focus. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car isn't fun. Particularly if you do not have a spare key! It can be a stressful experience however the good news is that there are some efficient ways to gain 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 to bring a spare key. If not, they will at the very least help you out with some other tools that could be used to unlock the car. You can make use of items such as a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, like when there is an elderly person or a child locked in the house on a hot day or if someone's physical safety is in danger, then you should immediately dial 911. You can dial 911 and they will send a crew to your location to either break the window or open the door using a thin jim.
If the situation is not hazardous, it is best to wait until someone else can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. This is because DIY methods could cause damage to the door, trigger security systems or cause the warranty to be void. It's important to note that these methods may not work with the latest cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
Consider buying an extra car key to stop this from occurring again. They can be affordable for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. In either case, they'll save you a lot of stress in the near future! You can also keep them in a place where they are easy to reach, like your purse or wallet.
2. Contact for a locksmith
You're bound to lock your keys inside your car at some point. It doesn't matter if you were in a rush or just distracted, it's a frustrating and embarrassing moment when you realize the door has shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
To avoid this scenario ensure you have a spare key at home, at work or in your bag for exercise. Many people buy a keychain they attach to their purses or wallets in case they lose their keys. This way, you'll have a spare key on the go and don't have to worry about the embarrassment that could result from calling 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 to contact locksmith assistance. A professional will be able to unlock your vehicle without causing damage to the lock and can even create you new keys immediately. They will also be able to provide suggestions on how to avoid getting locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're a member of AAA, this is an obvious option; they can provide you with a locksmith fast and at a reasonable cost. Additionally, most comprehensive auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your vehicle in a hurry however, they may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are many DIY alternatives to open cars without keys like a shoelace, a wire hanger or a curved wedge. However, these methods aren't always safe and efficient and are more likely to damage the lock or harm your window. It is essential to remain at peace and use these techniques only as an option last option. Contact 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your vehicle, or if you're stuck on a highway. You can seek help from the police or they can organize a towing service.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to call a towing company. Many of these services are able to open your car without damaging the door lock. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies, make sure that the number is programmed into your phone or you know it in order to easily contact them. They may even offer to come and assist you for no cost. You can also call the non-emergency police line and tell them your problem. They can give you tips on how to get into your car and will dispatch someone to help if necessary.
Being locked out of your car is not a pleasant experience, especially when you're trapped in an unsafe environment. You should always check the surroundings before calling for assistance particularly in a remote location or on a busy road at night. Check all the doors and windows if unsure how to unlock your car. It may be that you've left a window partially open, which may allow access.
Another alternative is to hack into your car with tools like a slim jim. However, this is not recommended and can damage the locks on your car. It is also important to remember that most insurance policies do not cover the costs of these repairs Therefore, you should be cautious when making use of any kind of device to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your wallet or purse. You can store it in your purse or wallet or purchase a magnetic car key holder box and put it on the underside of your vehicle. Some people leave a spare car key with a family member or trusted friend so they can retrieve it if necessary.
You can also contact your local dealer and ask whether they can help you out. The majority of dealers will provide you with an emergency key so you can return to your vehicle. They will probably ask you to show proof of ownership along with other personal details and you should be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
As driver, you should take steps to reduce the likelihood that you will lock yourself out of your vehicle by keeping a spare key in a safe location. Place a spare key in your purse, wallet or one of those magnetic boxes that can be hidden on the underside of your vehicle. You can also leave an extra with a nearby family member or friend who may be able help you in a moment of need. You might also consider writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in your glove compartment to quickly contact the owner of the vehicle in case you lock yourself out.
If you don't have a spare keys and you're in need of roadside assistance. Some companies specialize in unlocking cars and will send a technician to your location within a half hour or so, says Moody. Some companies, like AAA will send a locksmith immediately. The cost of a roadside assistance will differ based on the membership level you have as well as your insurance plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to open your vehicle without calling roadside assistance. These techniques can damage the door and should be used only as a last option.
If you can't unlock your vehicle it is recommended to call emergency services only if it is a immediate risk. 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 contacting the police and look for other ways of getting back to your vehicle. If you are a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage, this will probably cover your expenses, but make sure to check the terms of your policy to confirm. If not the roadside assistance or locksmith service will be your responsibility.