How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your vehicle and realize that you've locked your keys inside. You might be feeling helpless and panicked.
If you're fortunate, someone in your family or a friend may have an additional key that can give you access to the vehicle. If not, you might require an locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Call a friend or family member
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere, and we accidentally shut the car door without thinking. Sometimes, it happens when we are distracted, for example, when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio show and our brains don't quite focus. It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your vehicle. Particularly if you do not have a spare key! It can be incredibly stressful however the good thing is that there are some efficient ways to gain access.
Contact a family member or friend. This will inform them that you're in trouble, and they could even bring an extra car key. If not however, they'll be able to help you with other tools to open your car. You can use things like a coat hanger made of wire or shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is hazardous, such as if an elderly person, child or anyone else's safety is at risk. They can send an emergency team to your home, who can either use a slim jim to unlock the door or break the window.
Unless the situation is dangerous, it's better to seek assistance from family members or friends before trying to unlock your vehicle on your own. DIY methods can damage the door, activate security systems or even void your warranty. It's important to note that these methods might not be compatible with newer cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from happening again, consider purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. They can be inexpensive for a basic metal key or costly for a sophisticated fob. Whatever you choose, they'll save you a lot of stress in the near future! You can also keep them in a location where they are easy to reach, like your wallet or purse.
2. Call for a locksmith
You're bound to lock your keys in your car at one point. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to find out that keys are missing after the door has closed.
To avoid this scenario it is recommended to keep a spare key in a safe place at home, work, or your gym bag. G28 Car Keys purchase a keychain that can be attached to their purse or wallet in case they lose their keys. You will always have a spare key with you and won't need to worry about contacting roadside assistance or attempting to break into your vehicle.
If you don't own an extra set of keys, it's recommended that you call a professional locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and can even create you new keys immediately. They will also offer suggestions on how to prevent being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you are a member of AAA, this is a no-brainer; they can provide you with a locksmith fast and at a reasonable cost. Most comprehensive insurance policies for automobiles also provide 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 unlock your car without a key. This includes using a shoelace, or a wire hook. However, these methods aren't always safe and efficient and are more likely to break the lock or damage your window. It is important to remain at peace and use these methods only as a last resort. Call 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your car or you are stuck on an expressway. You can get help from the police or can arrange for a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is calling the towing company. A lot of these companies can unlock your car's doors without harming it. If you have roadside assistance, ensure that the number is programmed in your phone or you know it to be able to contact them easily. You could be eligible for assistance for free. You can also contact the non-emergency police line and explain your problem. They can give you tips for getting into your car and will dispatch an emergency assistance person if needed.
Getting locked out of your car is never fun, especially when you are stranded in a dangerous location. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be risky so it is important to examine your surroundings prior to asking for assistance. If you aren't sure how to unlock your car, it is important to check all of the windows and doors. You may have left a small window slightly open. This could allow you to gain access.
You can also try to break into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. However, this is not recommended and can damage the locks on your vehicle. It is important to know that most insurance policies will not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, you should be cautious when using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
Keep an extra car key in your wallet or purse. You can keep it in your purse or wallet or purchase a magnetic car key holder box and put it on the bottom of your car. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted family member to save them if they need to.
You can also contact your local dealer to inquire if they are able to help. Most dealers can provide you with temporary keys so that you can return to your vehicle. They will probably ask you to show proof of ownership along with other personal information so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
As a driver, you can do your part to reduce the likelihood to get locked out of your car by keeping an extra key in a safe place. Keep the spare key in your purse, wallet or in one of the magnetic boxes you can hide in the underside of your car. You can also leave an extra with a friend or family member who could be able to help you in a moment of need. You could also write your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and storing it in the glove compartment to quickly contact the owner of the vehicle if you lock yourself out.
If you do not have a spare key, you can call roadside assistance. Some companies specialize in unlocking cars and will send an expert to your location within an hour or so, says Moody. Others, like AAA, will send a locksmith right away. The cost of roadside services will vary based on your membership level and coverage plan.
There are a few other methods to open your car without calling for assistance at the roadside, such as using an inflatable wedge or bobby pin. These tactics can damage the door and should only be used as a last option.
Call emergency services only in the event of immediate danger if you cannot unlock your vehicle. This includes if you have pets or children in the vehicle, you're trapped in an active road, or your vehicle is in a hazardous location. It is recommended to avoid using the police and look for other methods of getting back to your vehicle. You may be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Examine the terms of your policy to confirm. If not the roadside assistance or locksmith service is your responsibility.