How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your vehicle and realize you've locked your keys inside. You might be feeling helpless and panicked.
If you're fortunate that one of your family members or friends will have an extra key that can give you access to the vehicle. If you don't have an extra key, you may need to contact an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Contact a family or friend member
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere and accidentally close the car door without thinking. Other times it happens when we are distracted, such as when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brain just doesn't completely focus. It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your car. It's even worse when you don't have an extra key. It can be a stressful situation however, there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to contact your family or friend. This will let them know that you're in trouble, and they could even bring a spare car key. If they can't, at least they will be able to help you with other tools to open your car. This could include things such as a doorstop, coat hanger made of wire or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if you believe the situation is threatening, such as if an elderly person, child or any other person's safety is in danger. They can send an emergency crew to your home, who can either use a slim jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation is not dangerous, it is best to wait until a professional can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. This is due to the fact that DIY methods can cause damage to the door and trigger security systems, or end the warranty. It is important to know that these methods may not work with the latest vehicles due to their specific locking mechanisms.
To avoid this happening in the future take into consideration buying a spare key for your vehicle. These can be inexpensive for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a smart key fob. They can save you a great deal of stress in the long term! You can also store them in a spot where they are easy to reach, like your purse or wallet.
2. Call for a locksmith
It's a fact of life that you are likely to lock your keys inside your car at some time. It doesn't matter if you were in a hurry or just distracted, it can be an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize the door has been shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
To avoid this, keep a spare at home, your workplace, or in your bag for your gym. Many people also purchase a keychain that is attached to their wallet or purse in case they forget their keys. You will always have an extra key on hand and won't need to worry about contacting roadside assistance or breaking into your car.
If you don't own an extra set of keys, it's recommended that you call a professional locksmith. A professional will be able to open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and can even create new keys right on the spot. They can also give you tips on how to avoid being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you are an active member of AAA, this is a no-brainer; they can send you a locksmith promptly and at a cost that is reasonable. Additionally, most comprehensive auto insurance policies include roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your car quickly but they can cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY options to open the car without keys. This includes using a shoelace or a wire hook. These methods are risky, time-consuming, and are more likely to damage your window or damage the lock. It is important to remain calm and only use these methods only as a last resort. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, or if you're stuck on the side of the highway, you should call 911 immediately. You can seek assistance from the police or can find a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to call the towing company. A lot of these companies can open your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have a roadside assistance plan, make sure that the number is set into your phone or that you know it in order to quickly contact them. They might even offer to come and assist you for no cost. You can also contact non-emergency police to inform them about your problem. You can also get advice on how to enter your car, and they will provide assistance if required.
Getting locked out of your vehicle is not a pleasant experience, especially when you're stuck in an unsafe environment. Unknown roads or places at night can be hazardous and you must be aware of your surroundings prior to asking for assistance. If you aren't sure 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 give access.
You can also try to gain entry into your vehicle using tools such as a slim Jim. This is not recommended as it can damage the locks of your vehicle. It is also important to remember that the majority of insurance policies will not cover the costs of these repairs, so you should always be aware before making use of any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your purse or wallet. It can be kept in a purse or wallet or purchase a magnetic car key holder box and put it on the underside of your car. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted family member so that they can rescue them if needed.
spare keys can also contact your local dealer to see if they are able to help. The majority of dealers can give you temporary keys so that you can return to your car. Be prepared for proof of ownership as well with other personal details.
4. Call AAA
Keep an extra in a secure place. This makes it less likely you'll be locked out. Keep an extra key in your purse, wallet, or one of the magnetic boxes you can put on the underside your vehicle. You can also leave an extra with a family member or friend who may be able help you in a hurry. You could also think about writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece of paper and keeping it in the glove compartment to quickly contact the owner of the vehicle in case you get locked out.
You can call roadside help for assistance if you don't have an extra. Moody says that some firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Others, like AAA, will dispatch a locksmith immediately. The cost of a roadside assistance will depend on the level of membership you have as well as your insurance plan.
There are several alternatives to unlock your car without calling for roadside assistance, such as using an inflatable wedge or bobby pin. However, these methods can cause damage to your door and should only be used as an emergency.
Always call emergency services if there is an immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, you are on a busy highway, or are in a hazardous area, then call emergency services. It is recommended to avoid calling the police and try alternative methods of getting into your car. You may 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 or roadside service.