How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your vehicle and realize you've locked the keys inside. You might feel helpless and panicked.
If you're lucky you'll find a family or friend member may have a spare key to allow you access to your vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you may need to contact an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Call a friend or family member
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere, and we accidentally shut the car door without thinking. Sometimes, we are distracted. For instance, if we're on the phone with someone or listening to radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car is no enjoyable experience. It's even more frustrating when you don't have an extra key. It can be stressful, but there are ways to gain access.
Contact your family member or a friend. They will be notified that you're in trouble and they might even bring an extra car key. If not, they'll at least be able to help you with other tools that could be used to unlock the car. This could include things like a doorstop, coat hanger made of wire or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening like when there is an elderly person or child trapped inside on a hot day or if someone's physical safety is at risk, then you should immediately call 911. They can send an emergency team to your location who will either use a small jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation isn't risky, it's recommended to seek help from family members or friends before trying to unlock your vehicle on your own. DIY methods may damage the door, activate security systems or even void your warranty. It is also important to remember that some of these methods may not work on newer cars, as they have specific locking mechanisms.
Consider buying an extra car key to stop this from happening again. These are usually inexpensive for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a smart key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll save you lots of stress in the future! You can also store them in a location where they are easily accessible, such as your wallet or purse.
2. Call an expert locksmith
It's a fact that you are likely to lock your keys in your car at some moment. It can be extremely frustrating and embarrassing to realize that your keys are missing after the door has closed.
To avoid this happening ensure that you keep a spare key in a safe location at work, home, or your gym bag. Many people also purchase a key chain that they can attach to their purse or wallet in the event that they lose their keys. This way, you'll have a spare key at hand in a hurry and don't have to worry about embarrassment if you end up having to call for assistance on the road or a break-in to your personal vehicle.
If you don't have an extra key the best thing you can do is to call locksmith assistance. A professional will be able open your vehicle without causing damage to the lock and they can even make new keys right on the spot. They'll also be able to offer tips on how to avoid being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can have locksmiths delivered to you promptly and at an affordable price. Additionally, most comprehensive auto insurance policies provide roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your vehicle in a hurry but they can cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are numerous DIY ways to open a car without a key. They include using a shoelace, or a wire hook. These techniques are risky, time-consuming and more likely to harm your window or break the lock. You should remain calm and only employ these techniques as a last option. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, or you are on the side of the highway, you should immediately call 911. You can seek help from the police or can find a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to call the towing company. Many of these services are able to unlock your car without damaging the door lock. If you have roadside assistance make sure that the number is set in your phone or you know that it is able to contact them easily. You could be eligible for assistance for free. Alternatively, you can also call the non-emergency police line and explain the issue. They can provide you with tips on how to get into your vehicle and send someone to assist if required.
Getting locked out of your vehicle is not a pleasant experience, especially when you're stuck in a hazardous location. Inconvenient roads or locations at night can be hazardous so it is important to be aware of your surroundings prior to calling for help. If you are unsure about how to unlock your car, it is essential to examine all the doors and windows. It may be that you've left a window open, which can sometimes give you access.
Another alternative is to get into your car with tools such as a slim jim. However, get spare key made near me 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 the costs for these repairs. Therefore, you must be cautious when using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your wallet or purse. You can keep it in your wallet or purse or purchase a magnetic key holder and then attach it to the underside of your car. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted family member so that they can rescue them if needed.
You can also contact your local dealer to find out whether they can help. Most dealers can provide you with temporary keys to enable you to return to your car. They will probably need to see proof of ownership along with other personal details and you should be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep a spare in a safe place. This will reduce the chance that you'll lock yourself out. Keep a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of those magnetic boxes that can be hidden on the underside of your car. You could leave a spare with a nearby family member or friend who could be able to help you in a hurry. You might also consider writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in your glove compartment so that you can quickly contact the owner of the vehicle in case you are locked out.
If you don't have a spare key, you can call roadside assistance. Moody says that some companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Certain companies, like AAA, will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of a roadside service will differ based on the level of membership you have as well as your coverage plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to open your car without having to call roadside assistance. However, these tactics can cause damage to your door and should be used only as a last resort.
If you are unable to unlock your car, you should always contact emergency services only in the event that there is an immediate danger. This includes if there are pets or children in the vehicle, you are stuck on a busy road, or your vehicle is in a hazardous area. The police are usually able to unlock a vehicle for no cost, but it's recommended not to do so and instead try another method of getting back in the car. If you're a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance insurance that covers your expenses, but make sure to make sure you read the terms of your policy to be sure. If not, you'll need to pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside service.