How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your car and realize that you've locked the keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that makes you feel overwhelmed and helpless.
If you're lucky, a friend or family member may have a spare key that can give you access to your vehicle. If not, you may need to call an locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Contact a family member or friend
Sometimes we rush to get somewhere and then close the car door without thinking. Sometimes, it happens because we're distracted. For example, when we're talking on the phone to someone or listening to radio. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car is no enjoyable experience. It's even more stressful when you don't have an extra key. It is a stressful time, but there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to call an acquaintance or family member. This will alert them that you are in trouble and they might be able bring a spare key. If they can't do this, they should be able to assist by using other tools to unlock your car. You can use items like an iron coat hanger or shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if you believe the situation is hazardous such as when an elderly person, a child or any other person's security is in danger. They can dispatch an emergency crew to your location, who will either use a slim jim to unlock the door or break the window.
Unless the situation is dangerous and you're in danger, it's better to seek assistance from family members or friends before attempting to unlock your vehicle on your own. DIY methods could cause damage to your door, activate security systems or invalidate your warranty. It's also important to know that certain methods may not work with the latest models, as they have specific locking mechanisms.
Consider buying a spare car key to stop this from repeating itself. These can be inexpensive for a basic metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. Either way, they will save you a lot of stress in the near future! You can also put them in a spot that is easily accessible, such as your wallet or purse.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
It's a fact that you're likely to lock your keys in your car at some moment. Whether you were in a hurry or distracted, it's an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize the door is shut and your keys aren't to be found.
To avoid this situation ensure you have a spare key at your home, at work or in your bag for your gym. Many people purchase a keychain that can be attached to their wallet or purse in the event that they lose their keys. This way, you'll have the spare key on the go and don't have to worry about the embarrassment that could result from needing assistance at the roadside or a break-in to your personal vehicle.
If you don't have an extra key, it's best to call an expert locksmith. A professional will be able to unlock your vehicle without causing damage to the lock and they can even make you new keys right on the spot. They'll also be able provide suggestions on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can get locksmiths delivered to you promptly and at a reasonable cost. Most comprehensive auto insurance policies also include roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your car quickly however, they may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are numerous DIY options to open a car without a key. These include using a shoelace or a wire hook. However, these methods are risky and time-consuming and are more likely to break the lock or damage your window. Be calm and only use these methods as a last resort. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, or are stuck on the side of a highway, it's important to call 911 immediately. You can seek assistance from the police or can find a towing company.
3. Call a towing service
Next, you need to call a towing service. Many of these services are able to open your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have a roadside assistance plan ensure that the phone number is set into your phone or that you know it in order to easily reach them. They might even offer to assist you for no cost. You can also call non-emergency police to inform them about your problem. get a spare key made near me can provide you with tips on how to get into your car and will send an emergency assistance person if needed.
It's never fun to be locked out of your car, especially if you are in a hazardous area. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be hazardous, so you should always check your surroundings before calling for help. Make sure you check all doors and windows if you are unsure what to do to unlock your vehicle. get spare car key made near me might have left a tiny window open. This can sometimes let you gain access.
Another option is to try and get into your car with tools like a slim jim. However, this is not recommended and can damage the locks on your vehicle. It is also important to note that most insurance policies do not cover the repair costs Therefore, you should be cautious when using any type of tool to gain entry into your vehicle.
One of the best ways to avoid this from occurring is to keep a spare key handy. You can keep it in your wallet or purse or purchase a magnetic key holder and attach it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people even leave a spare key with an amiable family member so that they can rescue them if needed.
You can also call your local dealer and see if they can help you out. Most dealers will be able to provide you with an interim key so that you can get back into your vehicle. They might need to see proof of ownership along with other personal information, so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep an extra in a secure location. This makes it less likely you'll lock yourself out. Keep the spare key in your wallet, purse, or one of the magnetic boxes can be tucked away on the underside your vehicle. You can also leave a spare in the hands of a friend who lives close by or a family member who might be able to help out in a pinch. You may also want to think about having your vehicle's identification number, also known as VIN, written on a piece of paper inside the glove box to help you quickly contact the owner of your vehicle on the phone if you are locked out of your car.
You can call roadside help for assistance if you don't have an extra. Moody states that certain firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Certain companies, like AAA will dispatch a locksmith right away. The cost of roadside services will vary based on the membership level you have and your the coverage plan.
You can also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to open your vehicle without contacting roadside assistance. These tactics can damage the door and should be used only as a last resort.
Only call emergency services when there is immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, you are on a busy road or in a risky zone, you should call emergency services. The police typically unlock a vehicle for no cost however, it is best to avoid doing so and instead try another way to get back into the vehicle. You could be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Review the policy's terms to make sure. If not, you will need pay out of pocket for the locksmith service or roadside assistance.