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 may feel helpless and panicked.
If you're lucky, a friend or family member will have a spare key to give access to your car. If not, you might need to call a locksmith or a towing service to get help.
1. Call a family member or a friend
Sometimes we are in a rush to get somewhere and accidentally shut the car's door without thinking. Sometimes it happens because we are distracted. For example, when we're on the phone to someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car isn't fun. It's even worse when you don't have a spare key. It can be incredibly stressful however the good thing is that there are some efficient ways to gain access.
The first step is to call a friend or family member. This will inform them that you're in trouble, and they could even bring an extra car key. If they can't however, they'll be able to help you by using other tools to unlock your vehicle. This could include things such as a doorstop, wire coat hanger or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, such as when there is an elderly person or child stuck in a hot room or if someone's physical safety is at risk and you need to call 911 immediately. They can send an emergency crew to your location, who can 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 best to wait for help from family or friends before you attempt to unlock your own vehicle. This is due to the fact that DIY methods can cause damage to the door, trigger security systems or end the warranty. It is also important to remember that some of these methods may not work on newer cars, as they have special locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from happening again take into consideration purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. These can be inexpensive for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a smart key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll help you avoid a lot of stress in the near future! It's recommended to store them in a secure place that is accessible for example, in your purse or wallet.
2. Contact for a locksmith
You're likely to lock your keys inside your car at one time or another. It can be extremely frustrating and embarrassing to discover that your keys are missing after the door has closed.
In order to avoid this situation ensure that you keep your spare key in a safe location at home, work or in your gym bag. Many people also purchase a keychain that is attached to their wallets or purses in case they forget their keys. You'll always have an extra key in your bag and don't have to be concerned about calling roadside assistance or breaking into your vehicle.
If you don't have an extra key the best thing to do is call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and could even create new keys on-site. They will also offer advice on how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA it's an obvious option; they can send you a locksmith promptly and at a reasonable cost. The majority of comprehensive insurance policies for automobiles also provide roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your vehicle in a hurry however, they may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are many DIY alternatives to open a car without the key like a shoelace, a wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. However, these options can be risky and time-consuming and are more likely to break the lock or damage your window. You should remain calm and only employ these tricks as a last resort. If you have children or pets in your vehicle, or are stuck on the side of a highway, it's important to call 911 immediately. The police will be able to help you, or they can call a towing service for you.
3. Contact a towing company
The next step is to contact an towing service. A majority of these companies are able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have an emergency roadside assistance plan ensure that the phone number is programmed into your phone or that you are aware of it in order to easily reach them. They may even offer to help you out for free. You can also contact non-emergency police and inform them about the issue. They can provide you with tips for getting into your car and will dispatch someone to assist if required.
Locked out of your car is not a pleasant experience, especially when you're trapped in a dangerous location. You must always look around the surrounding area before calling for help particularly in an unfamiliar place or on a busy road at night. Make sure you check all doors and windows if unsure how to unlock your car. It may be that you've left a window slightly open, which can sometimes allow you access.
You can also attempt to gain entry into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. But, this isn't advised and could cause damage to the locks on your vehicle. It is important to know that the majority of insurance policies do not cover these repairs. Therefore, you must be cautious when using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to prevent this from occurring is to keep a spare key handy. You can keep it in your purse or wallet or buy a magnetic key holder and stick it to the underside of your vehicle. spare car key maker near me leave their spare car key with a family member or trusted friend so they can be able to retrieve it should they need to.
You can also contact your local dealer to see whether they can help. Many dealers will provide you with temporary keys to allow you to return to your car. They will probably need to see proof of ownership as well as other personal information, so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep a spare in a safe place. This makes it less likely you'll get locked out. Keep an extra key in your purse, wallet or in one of the magnetic boxes that you can hide on the underside of your vehicle. You could also leave a spare with someone who lives near by or someone from your family who may be able to help you in a pinch. You might also think about having your vehicle's identification number, or VIN, written on a piece paper in the glove compartment to help you quickly contact the owner of your vehicle to call you if you're locked out of your car.
You can contact roadside assistance for assistance if you don't have an extra. Some companies specialize in unlocking vehicles and will send an expert to your location within an hour or so, according to Moody. Certain companies, like AAA will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of a roadside service will vary depending on the membership level you have and your coverage plan.
There are a few other methods to open your car without calling roadside assistance, for instance using an inflatable wedge or Bobby pin. However, these methods can harm your door and should only be used as an emergency.
Only call emergency services if there is an immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. This includes if there are children or pets inside the vehicle, you are stuck on a busy road or your vehicle is in a dangerous place. It is best to avoid contacting the police and try other ways of getting back into your car. You could 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 will be your responsibility.