How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your car and realize that you've locked your keys inside. You might be feeling overwhelmed and scared.
If you're lucky you'll find a family or friend member may have a spare key to give access to your vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you may need to contact an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Contact a family member, or friend
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere, and we accidentally shut the car's door without thinking. Sometimes it happens because we're distracted. For instance, when we're on the phone to someone or listening to radio. It's not fun to be locked out of your vehicle. Especially when you have no spare key! It is a stressful time, but there are ways to gain access.
Call your family member or a friend. This will notify them that you are in trouble and they may be able to provide a spare key. If not, they will at least be able to assist you with other tools that could be used to open the car. You can use things like a coat hanger made of wire or shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, like if there is an elderly person or child locked in the house on a hot day, or if someone's physical safety is at risk it is recommended to immediately call 911. You can call 911 and they'll send an emergency team to your location to either break the window or unlock the door using a slim jim.
If the situation isn't risky, it's better to seek assistance from family members or friends before attempting to unlock your own vehicle. DIY methods could damage the door and also activate security systems or invalidate your warranty. It's also important to note that some of these methods may not work on newer cars because they are equipped with specific locking mechanisms.
To avoid this happening in the future you should consider buying a spare key for your vehicle. They can be affordable for a basic metal key or more expensive for a smart key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll help you avoid a lot of stress in the future! It's recommended to store them in a secure location that is accessible like your purse or wallet.
2. Contact for a locksmith
It's a fact that you're bound to lock your keys in your car at some time. Whether you were in a hurry or just distracted, it can be a frustrating and embarrassing moment when you realize the door has shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
To avoid this scenario, you should always keep a spare key in a safe location at home, work, or your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain that they attach to their purse or wallet in case they lose their keys. You'll always have a spare key with you and will not have to be concerned about calling roadside assistance, or breaking into your car.
If you don't own an extra set of keys, it's recommended that you call a professional locksmith. A professional will be able to open your car without causing damage to the lock and can even create you new keys on the spot. They will also offer suggestions on how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If getting a spare key for my car 're a member of AAA it's an easy decision; they will provide you with a locksmith fast and at a cost that is reasonable. In addition, most comprehensive auto insurance policies include roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your car quickly but they can cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are several DIY alternatives to open a car without the key, such as a shoelace, wire hanger, or a curved wedge. However, these techniques can be risky and time-consuming and are more likely to break the lock or damage your window. It is important to stay calm and use these tricks only as the last resort. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, or are stuck on the side of the highway, it's important to immediately call 911. The police will be able to assist you, or may call a towing service for you.
3. Call a towing company
Next, you need to call a towing service. A lot of these companies are able to open your car without damaging the door lock. If you have an emergency roadside assistance plan, make sure that the number is programmed into your phone or that you are aware of it so that you can quickly contact them. They might even offer to come and help you out for no cost. You can also call non-emergency police and tell them about your problem. They can provide you with tips on how to get in your car and will send an emergency assistance person if needed.
It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your vehicle, especially if you are in a danger zone. You should always check the surrounding area before calling for help particularly in a foreign location or on a road that is busy at night. Make sure you check all doors and windows if you are uncertain about what to do to unlock your vehicle. You might have left a tiny window open. This can sometimes allow you to gain access.
Another alternative is to get into your car with tools like a slim jim. However, this is not advised and could cause damage to the locks on your vehicle. It is important to note that most insurance policies will not cover the costs of these repairs, so you should always be careful before making use of any kind of tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your purse or wallet. You can keep it in your wallet or purse or buy a magnetic key holder and stick it to the underside of your car. Some people leave their spare car key with someone in the family or a trusted friend so they can be able to retrieve it should they need to.
You can also contact your local dealer to see whether they can help you out. The majority of dealers can give you temporary keys to allow you to return to your vehicle. They might require proof of ownership and some other personal details so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep your spare in a secure place. This will make it less likely you'll get locked out. Place a spare key in your purse, wallet or one of the 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 may be able help you in a moment of need. You may also think about having your vehicle's identification number, or VIN, written on a piece paper in the glove box so that you can quickly contact the owner of your vehicle on the phone if you are locked out of the car.
If you don't have a spare key and you're in need of roadside assistance. Moody says that some firms are experts at 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 a roadside service will vary depending on the level of membership you have and your coverage plan.
There are a few other methods to open your car without calling for roadside assistance, such as using an inflatable wedge or bobby pin. However, these tactics can harm your door and should be used only as the last resort.
Call emergency services only when there is immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. This includes if there are pets or children in the vehicle, you're stuck on a busy road, or your vehicle is in a dangerous location. It is best to avoid contacting the police and look for alternative methods of getting into your car. You may be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Review the policy's terms to ensure. If not, you will be required to pay for the locksmith or roadside service.