How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your vehicle and realize that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that makes you feel panicked and helpless.
If you're fortunate you, someone in your family or a friend may have an additional key that could allow access to your vehicle. If not, you might need to call an emergency locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Call a friend or family member
It is possible to close the car door accidentally when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Sometimes it happens when we are distracted, like when we're talking with someone on the phone or listening to a radio show and our brain doesn't quite focus. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car isn't fun. It's even more frustrating when you don't have a spare key. It is a stressful time however, there are ways to gain access.
Call a family member or friend. This will alert them that you're in trouble. They may be able bring an extra key. If not, they'll at the very least assist you with other tools that could be used to unlock the car. This could include items like a doorstop coat hanger wire or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, like if there is an elderly person or child stuck in a hot room or if a person's physical safety is in danger it is recommended to immediately dial 911. You can call 911 and they'll send an emergency crew to your location to break the window or open the door with a small jim.
If the situation isn't risky, it is recommended to wait until a professional can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. DIY methods may cause damage to your door, activate security systems or invalidate your warranty. It's also important to note that some of these methods might not work on newer cars due to their specific locking mechanisms.
Consider purchasing an extra car key to avoid this from occurring again. These can be inexpensive for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. They can save you lots of stress in the long run! You can also store them in a location where they are easy to reach, like your purse or wallet.
2. Contact for a locksmith
You're bound to put your keys in your car at one point. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to find out that your keys are missing after closing the door.
In order to avoid this situation ensure that you keep an extra key in a secure place at work, home, or your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain that is attached to their purse or wallet to protect themselves in the event of losing their keys. This way, you'll have a spare key on your desk in a snap and you won't have to fret about the potential embarrassment of calling for roadside assistance or a break-in to your personal vehicle.
If you don't own an extra key, it's recommended to contact an expert locksmith. A professional will be able to unlock your car without damaging the lock, and can even create new keys right on the spot. They can also give you advice on how to avoid being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're a member of AAA, this is an easy decision; they will provide you with a locksmith fast and at a reasonable cost. The majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services can be used to help you get into your vehicle quickly, however they might cost more than an experienced locksmith.
There are many DIY options to open the car without keys. These include using a shoelace, or a wire hook. These techniques are risky, time-consuming, and more likely to damage your window or break the lock. It is essential to remain in a calm state and use these methods only as the last resort. Call 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your vehicle or if you're stuck on a highway. You can get help from the police or they can arrange for a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
Next, you need to call a towing service. Many of these services are able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have a roadside assistance plan ensure that the phone number is set into your phone or that you are aware of it in order to easily reach them. You may be offered free assistance. You can also contact non-emergency police and inform them about your issue. You can get tips on how to enter your car and they'll call someone in case of need.
Getting locked out of your car is never a good idea, particularly when you're trapped in an unsafe environment. You must always look around the surroundings before calling for assistance, especially if you are in an unfamiliar place or on a busy highway at night. Make sure you check all doors and windows if unsure how to unlock your car. You might have left a window that was slightly open. This may let you gain access.
Another alternative is to break into your car using tools like a slim jim. This is not recommended as it can damage the locks on your car. Be aware that the majority of insurance policies will not cover these repairs. Therefore, you must be cautious when making use of any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep an extra car key in your purse or wallet. You can store it in a purse or wallet or buy a magnetic car key holder box and place it on 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 reach out to your local dealer to inquire if they are able to assist. G28 Car Keys can give you temporary keys so that you can return to your car. They might require proof of ownership and some other personal information and you should be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep an extra in a secure place. This will make it less likely you'll get locked out. Keep the spare key in your purse, wallet, or one of the magnetic boxes that you can hide on the underside your vehicle. You could also give a spare to someone who lives nearby or a family member who might be able to help you in a pinch. You may also think about having your vehicle's identification number, also known as VIN, written on a piece of paper in the glove compartment to be able to quickly get the vehicle's owner on the phone when you are locked out of your vehicle.
It is possible to call roadside assistance in the event that you don't have a spare. Moody says that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Some companies, like AAA, will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of roadside assistance will vary based on your membership level and the coverage plan.
You can also use an inflatable or bobby-pin wedge to open your car without calling roadside assistance. However, these tactics can cause damage to your door and should only be used as an emergency.
If you're unable to unlock your car, you should always call emergency services only in the event that there is a immediate risk. This is especially true if there are pets or children inside the vehicle, you are stuck on a busy road or your vehicle is in a risky location. It is best to avoid calling the police and look for alternative methods of getting to your vehicle. If you're a part of an auto club or have roadside assistance insurance that covers the cost, but you should check the terms of your policy to confirm. If not, you will be required to pay for the locksmith service or roadside assistance.