How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your vehicle only to realize that you've locked the keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that can leave you feeling panicked and insecure.
If you're fortunate that a family member or friend has an extra key that can allow access to your vehicle. If you don't have an extra key, you might have to contact an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Call a friend or family member
We can close the car door accidentally when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Sometimes it happens when we're distracted, such as when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio show and our brain just doesn't seem to be able to focus. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car isn't fun. It's even more frustrating when you don't have an extra key. It can be a stressful experience however the good thing is that there are some effective methods to regain access.
Contact a family member or friend. This will give them a heads-up that you're in trouble. They may be able bring an extra key. If not, they'll at least be able to assist you with other tools that could be used to open the car. You can use items like a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
Contact 911 immediately if the situation is threatening for instance, if an elderly person, child, or anyone's safety is at risk. They can send an emergency team to your location who can either use a slim jim to unlock the door or break the window.
If the situation isn't risky, it is recommended to wait until a professional can help you unlock your vehicle. DIY methods could damage the door and activate security systems, or void your warranty. It is important to remember that these methods might not be compatible with newer automobiles due to their unique locking mechanisms.
To avoid this occurring in the future take into consideration buying a spare key for your vehicle. These are usually inexpensive for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. replacement spare can save you lots of stress in the long term! It's also a good idea to store them in a secure place that is easy to access like your purse or wallet.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
It is inevitable to put your keys in your car at some time or another. Whether you were in a hurry or distracted, it's an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize that the door has been shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
To avoid this situation ensure you have a spare key at home, your workplace or in your bag for your gym. Many people are also able to purchase a keychain that they can attach to their wallet or purse in the event that they lose their keys. This way, you will have the spare key on hand in a hurry and won't have to worry about embarrassment if you end up having to call for assistance on the road or a break-in to your personal vehicle.
If you don't own an extra set of keys, it's recommended that you call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able unlock your vehicle without causing damage to the lock. They will even create new keys on the spot. They'll also be able to provide tips on how to avoid being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA you can get locksmiths delivered to you quickly and at a low cost. Furthermore, the majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance. These services can help you get back in your car quickly but they can cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are a variety of DIY alternatives to open a car without the key, such as a shoelace, a 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 a last resort. 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 they can organize a towing service.
3. Contact a towing company
The next step is to call a towing service. A majority of these companies can open your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have a roadside assistance plan ensure that the number is set into your phone or that you know it in order to quickly contact them. You could be eligible for free assistance. You can also contact non-emergency police and inform them about the issue. They can give you tips on how to get in your car and will send an emergency assistance person if needed.
It's never fun to be locked out of your vehicle, especially if you are in a dangerous environment. You must always look around the surroundings before calling for help, especially if you are in a remote location or on a road that is busy at night. If you are unsure about how to unlock your vehicle, it is important to check all of the windows and doors. It could be that you have left a window open, which could allow you access.
Another alternative is to break into your car using tools such as a slim jim. But, this isn't advised and could cause damage to the locks on your car. Be aware that most insurance policies will not cover these repairs. Therefore, it is important to be cautious before using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to avoid this from occurring is to keep a spare key handy. You can store it in a wallet or purse or purchase an electronic key holder for your car box and put it on the bottom of your car. Some people leave a spare car key with a family member or trusted friend to be able to retrieve it should they need to.
You can also reach out to your local dealer to inquire if they are able to help. The majority of dealers can provide you with temporary keys to enable you to return to your car. Be prepared for evidence of ownership as well with other personal details.
4. Call AAA
Keep your spare in a secure place. This will reduce the chance that you'll be locked out. Keep a spare key in your wallet, purse, or one of the magnetic boxes can be tucked away on the underside of your vehicle. You could also leave a spare in the hands of someone who lives nearby or an individual from your family who might be able to help you out in a pinch. You may also consider having your vehicle identification number, also known as VIN, written on a piece paper in the glove compartment to help you quickly contact the owner of your vehicle on the phone when you are locked out of your vehicle.
You can call roadside help in the event that you don't have an extra. Moody says that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Others, such as AAA will send a locksmith right away. The cost of a roadside assistance will differ based on the membership level you have as well as your insurance plan.
You can also employ a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to open your vehicle without contacting roadside assistance. These techniques can damage the door and should only be used as a last resort.
Always call emergency services in the event of immediate danger if you cannot unlock your vehicle. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, are stuck on a busy highway, or in a risky area, then call emergency services. It is best to avoid contacting the police and instead try alternative methods of getting into your car. If you're a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage, this will probably cover the cost, but you should make sure you read the terms of your policy to ensure. If not, you'll need pay for the locksmith or roadside assistance.