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 be feeling helpless and panicked.
If you're fortunate, one of your family members or friends has an additional key that could allow access to your vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you may need to call an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Call a friend or family member
It is possible to shut the car door accidentally when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Sometimes it happens because we're distracted. For instance, if we're on the phone to someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car isn't enjoyable experience. Particularly when you don't have a spare key! It can be incredibly stressful, but the good news is that there are some effective methods to regain access.
Contact your family member or friend. This will alert them that you're in trouble and they may be able bring an extra key. If not, they'll at least be able to assist you with other tools that can be used to open the car. This could include things such as a doorstop, wire coat hanger or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, such as when there is an elderly person or child trapped in the house on a hot day or if a person's physical safety is at risk and you need to call 911 immediately. They can dispatch an emergency crew to your location who can either use a slim jim to unlock the door or break the window.
If the situation is not dangerous, it is best to wait until a professional can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. This is because DIY methods could cause damage to the door, trigger security systems or end the warranty. It is also important to remember that certain methods may not work with the latest models due to their specific locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from occurring in the future, consider buying a spare key for your vehicle. get a spare car key made can be inexpensive for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. Either way, they will save you a lot of stress in the future! It's also a good idea to store them in a secure location that is accessible, such as in your purse or wallet.
2. Contact a locksmith
It's a fact of life that you're likely to lock your keys inside your car at some time. Whether you were in a hurry or simply distracted, it can be an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize that the door has shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
In order to avoid this situation ensure that you keep your spare key in a safe place at home, work, or your gym bag. Many people buy a keychain is attached to their purses or wallets in the event that they lose their keys. You'll always have an extra key on hand and won't need to worry about contacting roadside assistance or attempting to break into your vehicle.
If spare key maker don't own an extra key, it's best to call an expert locksmith. A professional will be able to open your vehicle without causing damage to the lock and can even create new keys immediately. They'll also be able provide suggestions on how to avoid getting locked out of your car in the future.
If you are an active member of AAA, this is a no-brainer; they can provide you with a locksmith fast and at a reasonable price. The majority of comprehensive insurance policies for automobiles also provide roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your car quickly but they can cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are a variety of DIY options for opening a car without the key, such as a shoelace, wire hanger or a curved wedge. However, these methods aren't always safe and efficient and are more likely to damage the lock or damage your window. It is crucial to remain at peace and use these techniques only as the last resort. Contact 911 immediately if you have pets or children in your vehicle or if you're stuck on a highway. You can seek help from the police or they can arrange for a towing company.
3. Call a towing service
The next step is to call a towing service. A majority of these services will unlock your car's doors without damaging it. If you have a roadside assistance plan, make sure that the number is programmed into your phone or you know it so that you can easily contact them. They may even offer to help you out for free. You can also call the non-emergency police line and let them know about your problem. They can give you tips on how to get in your vehicle and send an emergency assistance person if needed.
Locked out of your car is never fun, especially when you're trapped in a hazardous location. Unknown roads or places at night can be risky, so you should always check your surroundings before calling for help. Make sure you check all doors and windows if you are unsure how to unlock your vehicle. It is possible that you left a tiny window open. This may let you gain access.
You could also try to break into your car using tools such as a slim Jim. But, this isn't advised and could cause damage to the locks on your vehicle. You should also be aware that most insurance policies will not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, you should be careful when using any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep an extra car key in your wallet or purse. You can keep it in your purse or wallet or purchase a magnetic keys holder and then attach it to the underside of your car. Some people even leave spare keys with a trusted family member so that they can rescue them if needed.
You can also contact your local dealer to find out if they are able to help. Many dealers will provide you with a temporary key so that you can return to your vehicle. They will probably require proof of ownership along with other personal information so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
As an owner, you can do your part to reduce the likelihood that you'll lock yourself out of your car by keeping your spare keys in a secure place. Place a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of those magnetic boxes that can be hidden in the underside of your vehicle. You can also give a spare to a friend who lives close by or someone from your family who may be able to help out in a pinch. You might also think about having your vehicle's identification number, or VIN written on a piece of paper inside the glove box to help you quickly contact the owner of your vehicle on the phone when you're locked out of your vehicle.
If spare key maker do not have a spare key or a spare key, you can contact roadside assistance. Some companies specialize in unlocking cars and will send an expert to your location within an hour or less, according to Moody. Some companies, like AAA, will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of roadside services will differ based on the membership level you have and your coverage plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or inflatable wedge to open your vehicle without calling roadside assistance. However, these tactics can harm your door and should be used only as an emergency.
Always call emergency services if there is an immediate threat if you can't unlock your vehicle. This includes if there are pets or children inside the vehicle, you're trapped in an active road or your vehicle is in a hazardous place. It is best to avoid contacting the police and look for other methods of getting back to your vehicle. If you're a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage, this will probably cover your expenses, but make sure to make sure you read the conditions of your policy to be sure. If not, the roadside assistance or locksmith service will be your responsibility.