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 can make you feel in a state of panic and overwhelmed.
If you're fortunate that a family member or friend will have an extra key that can give you access to the vehicle. If you don't have an extra key, you may need to contact an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Call a family member or a friend
We may close the car door accidentally when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Sometimes, we're distracted. For instance, if we're talking on the phone to someone or listening to radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car is no fun. Particularly when you don't have a spare key! It can be stressful however, there are ways to gain access.
Call your family member or a friend. This will notify them that you're in trouble and they may be able to bring a spare key. If not however, they'll be able to assist you with other tools to open your vehicle. This can include items like a doorstop, wire coat hanger or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening like when there is an elderly person or child locked in the house on a hot day or if someone's physical safety is in danger and you need to immediately dial 911. They can dispatch an emergency team to your location, who will either use a slim jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation is not dangerous, it is best to wait until a professional can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. DIY methods could damage the door, activate security systems or even void your warranty. It's also important to know that some of these methods may not work with newer vehicles because they are equipped with special locking mechanisms.
To avoid this occurring in the future, consider buying a spare key for your vehicle. They can be affordable for a basic metal key or costly for a sophisticated fob. They will save you a great deal of stress in the long term! It's also a good idea to keep them in a secure location that is easy to access, such as in your wallet or purse.
2. Call for a 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 closing the door.
In order to avoid this situation, you should always keep an extra key in a secure place at home, work, or your gym bag. Many people buy a keychain can be attached to their wallet or purse in the event that they lose their keys. You will always have a spare key with you and will not have to worry about calling roadside assistance, or breaking into your car.
If you don't have an extra key, the best thing to do is call locksmith assistance. A professional locksmith will be able unlock your car without causing damage to the lock. They will even create new keys on the spot. They will also offer tips on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can have a locksmith sent to you promptly and at a reasonable cost. The majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services can be used to get you into your car quickly, but they might cost more than an experienced locksmith.
There are many DIY alternatives to unlock the car without keys. These include using a shoelace or wire hook. These methods are risky, time-consuming and are more likely to damage your window or break the lock. You should remain calm and only use these techniques as a last resort. Call 911 immediately if you have pets or children in your vehicle or if you are stuck on the highway. You can seek assistance from the police or they can find a towing company.
3. Call a towing company
Next, you need to contact a towing company. Many of these services can open your car without damaging the door lock. If you have a roadside assistance plan, make sure that the phone number is set into your phone or that you are aware of it so that you can quickly contact them. You could be eligible for assistance for free. You can also call non-emergency police to inform them about the issue. You can receive tips on how to enter your car, and they will send someone if needed.
It's not fun to be locked out of your vehicle, especially if you are in a dangerous environment. Inconvenient roads or locations at night can be hazardous and you must examine your surroundings prior to calling for help. Examine all doors and windows if uncertain about how to unlock your car. It could be that you have left a window open, which could give you access.
Another alternative is to get into your car with tools like a slim jim. This is not recommended as it could cause damage to the locks of your vehicle. Be aware that the majority of insurance policies do not cover these repairs. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when making use of any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep an extra car key in your wallet or purse. You can keep it in a purse or wallet or buy a magnetic car key holder box and place it on the bottom of your vehicle. Some people even leave spare keys with a trusted family member to rescue them if needed.
You can also contact your local dealer to inquire if they are able to help. get spare key made will be able to provide you with an interim key so that you can be back in your car. Be prepared to be asked for proof of ownership as well with other personal details.
4. Call AAA
As a driver, you can take steps to make it less likely that you'll lock yourself out of your car by keeping your spare keys in a secure place. Keep an extra key in your purse, wallet, or one of the magnetic boxes that you can put on the underside of your vehicle. You can also leave a spare with an acquaintance who lives near by or an individual from your family who might be able to help you out in a pinch. You may also want to think about having your vehicle's identification number, or VIN, written on a piece paper inside the glove box to be able to quickly call the owner of the car to call you if you are locked out of the vehicle.
If you do not have a spare key and you're in need of roadside assistance. Some companies specialize in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within an hour or so, according to Moody. Certain companies, such as AAA will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of a roadside assistance will vary depending on the level of membership you have as well as your coverage plan.
You can also employ a bobby-pin or inflatable wedge to open your car without contacting roadside assistance. However, these methods can damage your door and should only be used as the last resort.
Only call emergency services when there is immediate threat if you can't unlock your vehicle. This includes if there are children or pets inside the vehicle, you're stuck on a busy road, or your vehicle is in a dangerous location. It is best to avoid calling the police and look for other methods of getting back to your car. If you're a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage that covers the cost, but you should be sure to check the conditions of your policy to be sure. If not the locksmith or roadside assistance will be your responsibility.