How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your car only to discover that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and insecure.
If you're lucky you'll find a family or friend member may have a spare key that can 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. Contact a family or friend member
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere, and we accidentally shut the car door without thinking. Sometimes, we are distracted. For example, when we're on the phone with someone else or listening to the radio. It's never fun to be locked out of your car. Particularly if you do not have a spare key! It can be a stressful situation however, there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to contact your family or friend. This will alert them that you're in trouble. They may be able to bring a spare key. If not do this, they should be able to help you with other tools to open your car. This could include things such as a doorstop, wire coat hanger, or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening like the case of an elderly person or a child trapped in a hot room or if a person's physical safety is in danger it is recommended to call 911 immediately. They can dispatch an emergency team to your location who can either use a slim jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation isn't dangerous and you're in danger, it's recommended to seek help from family or friends before attempting to unlock your car. This is due to the fact that DIY methods can cause damage to the door, trigger security systems or void the warranty. It's important to note that these methods might not work with the latest automobiles due to their unique locking mechanisms.
Consider buying an extra car key to prevent this from repeating itself. They can be affordable for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a smart key fob. Either way, they will save you a lot of stress in the future! You can also put them in a place that is easily accessible, such as your purse or wallet.
2. Call a locksmith
It is inevitable to lock your keys inside your car at one time or another. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to discover that your keys are not there after closing the door.
To avoid this Keep a spare at your home, at work or in your bag for your gym. Many people purchase a keychain that is attached to their purses or wallets in case they lose their keys. You'll always have a spare key with you and won't need to worry about contacting roadside assistance or breaking into your vehicle.
If you don't have an extra key, it's best to call a professional locksmith. A professional will be able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the lock, and can even create you new keys on the spot. They can also provide advice on how to avoid being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA you can have a locksmith sent to you swiftly and at an affordable price. Additionally, most comprehensive auto insurance policies provide roadside assistance. These services can help you get back into your vehicle quickly however, they may cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY ways to open the car without keys. They include using a shoelace or wire hook. However, these methods aren't always safe and efficient and are more likely to break the lock or harm your window. It is important to stay calm and use these tricks only as the last option. Contact 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your vehicle, or if you are stuck on a highway. You can seek help from the police or can find a towing company.
3. Contact a towing company
The next step is to call a towing company. Many of these services can open your car's door without harming it. If you have an emergency roadside assistance plan ensure that the number is in your phone or that you are aware of it so that you can easily reach them. You could be eligible for assistance for free. You can also contact non-emergency police to inform them about your problem. They can give you tips on how to get in your car and will send someone to help if necessary.
Being locked out of your car is never fun, especially when you're stuck in an unsafe environment. Always check the surroundings before calling for help particularly if you're in a foreign location or on a road that is busy at night. Make sure you check all windows and doors if you're not sure how to unlock your car. It could be that you've left a window partially open, which may allow you access.
You could also try to break into your car with tools like a slim Jim. This is not recommended as it could damage the locks on your car. It is important to note that most insurance policies do not cover the cost of these repairs therefore, you must be aware before making use of any device to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your wallet or purse. You can either keep it in your purse or wallet or purchase a magnetic keys holder and then attach it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people leave a spare car key with an individual from 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 assist. Many dealers will provide you with temporary keys to allow you to return to your car. Be prepared to be asked for evidence of ownership as well in other personal information.
4. Call AAA
As an owner, you can do your part to make it less likely that you will be locked out of your vehicle by keeping a spare key in a secure place. Keep the spare key in your wallet, purse or in one of the magnetic boxes you can put in the underside of your car. You could also leave a spare in the hands of someone who lives close by or an individual from your family who might be able to help you in a pinch. You could also write your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in the glove compartment to quickly call the owner of the vehicle if you are locked out.
If you don't have a spare keys or a spare key, you can contact roadside assistance. Moody says that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a few hours. Some companies, like AAA will dispatch a locksmith right away. The cost of roadside assistance will vary based on your membership level and the coverage plan.
There are make a spare key near me to unlock your car without calling for roadside assistance, for instance using an inflatable wedge or bobby pin. These methods can cause damage to the door and should be used only as a last resort.
If you can't unlock your vehicle it is recommended to call for emergency services only if it is in immediate danger. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, are on a busy road, or in a risky area, you should contact emergency services. The police will typically unlock a vehicle for free however, it is best to avoid doing so and instead try another method of getting back into the vehicle. You could be covered under your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Check your policy terms to make sure. If not, the locksmith or roadside assistance will be your responsibility.