How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your car and realise you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that makes you feel in a state of panic and helpless.
If you're lucky you'll find that a friend or family member will have a spare key that can give access to your car. If not, you might require an emergency locksmith or towing service for assistance.
1. Call a friend or family member
Sometimes we are in a rush to get somewhere, and we accidentally close the car door without thinking. Sometimes, it happens when we're distracted, such as when we're talking to someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brains don't quite focus. It's not fun to be locked out of your vehicle. It's even worse when you don't have an extra key. It can be stressful however, there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to call an acquaintance or family member. This will inform them that you're in trouble, and they might even bring an extra car key. If they can't do this, they should be able to assist with other tools to open your vehicle. This could include things like a doorstop coat hanger wire, or even shoelaces.
Contact 911 immediately if the situation is dangerous, such as if an elderly person, child or any other person's security is in danger. They can dispatch an emergency crew to your home, who will either use a slim jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation is not hazardous, it is best to wait until someone else can help you unlock your vehicle. This is due to the fact that DIY methods can cause damage to the door and trigger security systems, or cause the warranty to be void. It is also important to remember that certain methods may not work with newer vehicles because they are equipped with specific locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from occurring in the future take into consideration purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. They can be inexpensive for a simple key made of metal or expensive for a smart fob. They can save you a great deal of stress in the long run! You can also put them in a location that is easily accessible, such as your purse or wallet.
2. Call a locksmith
It's a fact of life that you're bound to lock your keys in your car at some moment. Whether you were in a rush or just distracted, it can be an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize that the door is shut and your keys aren't to be found.
To avoid this scenario it is recommended to keep a spare key in a safe place at home, work or in your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain that is attached to their purse or wallet in case they lose their keys. This way, you will have a spare key at the go and you won't have to fret about the embarrassment that could result from having to call for roadside assistance or breaking into your own vehicle.
If you don't own an extra key, it's best to call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to open your vehicle without causing damage to the lock and even create keys for you on the spot. They can also give you suggestions on how to prevent being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA it's a no-brainer; they can send you a locksmith quickly and at a reasonable price. Additionally, most comprehensive auto insurance policies provide roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your car quickly, but may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are many DIY options to open a car without the key like a shoelace, wire hanger or a curved wedge. However, these methods can be risky and time-consuming and are more likely to break the lock or harm your window. It is important to stay at peace and use these techniques only as the last option. If you have pets or children in your vehicle, or are stuck on the side of the highway, you must immediately call 911. The police will be able to help you, or they may call a towing service to assist you.
3. Call a towing company
The next step is to contact a towing company. A majority of these services will unlock your car's doors without harming it. If lost my car key and have no spare have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies, make sure that the phone number is in your phone or you know it so that you can easily reach them. They might even offer to help you out for free. You can also call non-emergency police and inform them about your problem. They will give you advice on how to get into your vehicle and send someone to assist if required.
It's not fun to be locked out of your vehicle, especially if you are in a danger zone. Inconvenient roads or locations at night can be risky so it is important to check your surroundings before calling for help. Examine all doors and windows if unsure how to unlock your vehicle. It is possible that you left a tiny window open. This can sometimes allow you to gain access.
You can also try to gain entry into your vehicle using tools such as a slim Jim. However, this isn't recommended as it could damage the locks on your vehicle. Be aware that most insurance policies will not cover repairs to these locks. Therefore, it is important to be cautious before using any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key in your pocket. It can be kept in your purse or wallet, or you can buy an electronic key holder for your car box and place it on the bottom of your car. Some people keep a spare car key with a family member or trusted friend so they can retrieve it if necessary.
You can also contact your local dealer to find out whether they can assist. Many dealers will give you temporary keys to enable you to return to your vehicle. They may ask you to show proof of ownership along with other personal information so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
As an owner, you can take steps to make it less likely to lock yourself out of your car by keeping your spare keys in a safe location. Keep an extra key in your purse, wallet, or one of the magnetic boxes you can hide in the underside of your car. You can also leave an extra with a family member or friend who may be able help you in a moment of need. You may also consider having your vehicle identification number, or VIN, written on a piece paper in the glove box to help you quickly get the vehicle's owner on the phone when you are locked out of your vehicle.
If you do not have a spare key or a spare key, you can contact roadside assistance. Moody says that some firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a few hours. Certain companies, such as AAA, will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of a roadside service will vary depending on the membership level you have and your insurance plan.
There are several alternatives to unlock your car without calling roadside assistance, such as using an inflatable wedge or a bobby pin. However, these tactics can harm your door and should be used only as an emergency.
Call emergency services only when there is immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. This is especially true if there are children or pets inside the vehicle, you are stuck on a busy road or your vehicle is in a hazardous location. The police will typically unlock a car for free however, it is recommended not to do so and instead find a different method of getting back into the car. You may be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Examine the terms of your policy to confirm. If not, you will have to pay for the locksmith or roadside service.