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 feeling that can make you feel in a state of panic and insecure.
If you're lucky that someone in your family or a friend may have an additional key that can allow access to your vehicle. If not, you'll require a locksmith or a towing service for assistance.
1. Contact a family member or friend
Sometimes we rush to get somewhere and then shut the car's door without thinking. Sometimes, we are distracted. For example, when we're talking on the phone with someone or listening to radio. 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 is a stressful time but there are ways to gain access.
Call your family member or a friend. They will be notified that you're in trouble, and they might even bring an extra car key. If they aren't however, they'll be able to help you with other tools that will allow you to open your car. You can use things like an iron coat hanger or shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is threatening for instance, if an elderly person, child or anyone else's safety is in danger. They can dispatch 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 better to seek assistance from family or friends before attempting to unlock your vehicle on your own. DIY methods can cause damage to your door and also activate security systems or invalidate your warranty. It's also important to note that some of these methods might not work with the latest models due to their specific locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from occurring in the future, consider purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. These can be inexpensive for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll save you lots of stress in the near future! It's also a good idea to store them in a secure place that is accessible like your wallet or purse.
2. Call a locksmith
It's a given that you are likely to lock your keys in your car at some time. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to find out that your keys are missing after closing the door.
In order to avoid this situation it is recommended to keep an extra key in a secure place at work, home, or your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain can be attached to their purse or wallet to protect themselves in the event of losing their keys. You will always have an extra key on hand and will not have to be concerned about calling roadside assistance or breaking into your car.
However, if you don't have an extra key the best thing you can do is to call a locksmith for help. A professional locksmith will be able to unlock your vehicle without causing damage to the lock. They could even create new keys on the spot. They can also give you advice on how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA this is a no-brainer; they can send you a locksmith quickly and at a reasonable price. Most comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your car quickly however, they may cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are several DIY options to open cars without keys, such as a shoelace, wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. These methods are risky, time-consuming, and are more likely to damage your window or damage the lock. You should remain calm and only use these methods as a last resort. Contact 911 immediately if you have pets or children in your vehicle or if you are stuck on the highway. You can seek help from the police, or they can organize a towing service.
3. Call a towing company
The next step is to contact a towing company. Many of these services can unlock your car's doors without causing damage. If you are a roadside assistance customer make sure that the number is set in your phone or you know it so that you can reach them easily. You might be offered free assistance. You can also call the non-emergency police line and tell them your issue. You can receive tips on how to get into your vehicle and they'll send someone if needed.
Getting locked out of your vehicle is never fun, especially when you're trapped in an unsafe environment. You should always check the surroundings before calling for help, especially if you are in a foreign location or on a busy highway at night. Examine all doors and windows if uncertain about how to unlock your vehicle. You might have left a tiny window open. This can sometimes let you gain access.
You could also try to break into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. This is not recommended as it can damage your car's locks. Be aware that the majority of insurance policies do not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, you should be cautious before using any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to avoid this from occurring is to keep a spare key on hand. You can keep it in your purse or wallet or purchase a magnetic key holder and then attach it to the underside of your car. Some people even leave a spare key with an amiable family member so that they can rescue them if needed.
You can also contact your local dealer to find out if they are able to assist. Most dealers can give you temporary keys so that you can return to your car. spare car key replacement might ask you to show proof of ownership along with other personal information so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
As driver, you should help reduce the likelihood that you will be locked out of your vehicle by keeping a spare key in a safe place. Stash a spare in your purse, wallet or one of the magnetic boxes that can be hidden on the underside of your car. You could leave a spare to a close family member or friend who might be able to assist you in a moment of need. You may also want to consider having your vehicle identification number, or VIN, written on a piece of paper inside the glove box to be able to quickly get the vehicle's owner to call you if you're locked out of the car.
If you don't have a spare keys and you're in need of roadside assistance. Some companies specialize in unlocking cars and will send technicians to your location within a half hour or less, according to Moody. Others, such as AAA will send a locksmith right away. The cost of a roadside service will depend on the level of membership you have as well as your coverage plan.
There are several other ways to open your car without requesting roadside assistance, such as using an inflatable wedge or Bobby pin. However, these techniques could cause damage to your door and should only be used as the last resort.
If you're unable to unlock your vehicle You should always call emergency services only in the event that there is in immediate danger. This includes if there are pets or children inside the vehicle, you are trapped in an active road or your vehicle is in a risky place. It is best to avoid using the police and instead try alternative methods of getting to your vehicle. You could be covered under your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Examine you can try these out of your policy to make sure. If not, the roadside assistance or locksmith will be your responsibility.