How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your vehicle only to realize that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that can leave you feeling in a state of panic and overwhelmed.
If you're lucky, someone in your family or a friend has an additional key that could allow access to your vehicle. If not, you'll require an emergency locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Contact a family member or a friend
We can close the car door in error when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Sometimes it happens when we are distracted, like when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brain doesn't seem to be able to focus. It's never fun to be locked out of your car. It's even more frustrating when you don't have an extra key. It can be incredibly stressful however the good news is that there are efficient ways to gain access.
The first step is to contact an acquaintance or family member. This will inform them that you're in trouble, and they may bring an extra car key. If not, they will at a minimum be able to help you with other tools that can be used to open the car. This can include items such as a doorstop, coat hanger made of wire, or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, such as if there is an elderly person or a child stuck in a hot room or if a person's physical safety is in danger it is recommended to immediately dial 911. You can dial 911 and they'll send an emergency crew to your location to either break the window or unlock the door with a small jim.
If make a spare car key near me isn't risky, it's recommended to seek help from friends or family members before you attempt to unlock your vehicle on your own. This is because DIY methods could cause damage to the door and security systems, as well as cause the warranty to be void. getting a spare key for my car is important to remember that these methods might not be compatible with newer automobiles due to their unique locking mechanisms.
Consider purchasing a spare car key to prevent this from repeating itself. These can be cheap for a basic metal key or costly for a high-end fob. They will save you a great deal of stress in the long run! It's also a good idea to keep them in a safe place that is accessible, such as in your wallet or purse.
2. Contact a locksmith
You're likely to put your keys in your car at one moment. It doesn't matter if you were in a rush or just distracted, it's an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize the door has been shut and your keys aren't to be found.
To avoid this ensure you have a spare key at home, your workplace, or in your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain that they attach to their purse or wallet in case they lose their keys. You will always have a spare key with you and will not have to be concerned about calling roadside assistance, or breaking into your car.
If you don't have an extra set of keys, it's best to call a professional locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to unlock your car without damaging the lock, and they can even make keys for you immediately. They can also provide tips on how to prevent being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA you can get a locksmith sent to you promptly and at a reasonable cost. The majority of comprehensive insurance policies for automobiles also provide roadside assistance. These services can help you get back in your car quickly however, they may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are many DIY options to open a car without a key. They include using a shoelace, or a wire hook. These methods are risky, time-consuming, and more likely to damage your window or damage the lock. Be calm and only employ these tricks as a last option. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, or you are on the side of a highway, you must call 911 immediately. You can get help from the police, or they can find a towing company.
3. Contact a towing company
The next step is to contact the towing company. A lot of these companies are able to open your car without damaging the door lock. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies ensure that the number is programmed into your phone or you know it so that you can easily contact them. You might be offered assistance for free. Alternatively, you can also call the non-emergency police line and explain the issue. You can receive tips on how to enter your vehicle and they'll call someone in case of need.
Being locked out of your vehicle is not a pleasant experience, especially when you're stuck in a dangerous location. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be dangerous so it is important to be aware of your surroundings prior to asking for help. Check all the doors and windows if not sure how to unlock your vehicle. It could be that you've left a window partially open, which may give access.
Another alternative is to hack into your car with tools such as a slim jim. However, this is not advised and could cause damage to the locks on your car. It is also important to note that most insurance policies don't cover the repair costs, so you should always be cautious when making use of any kind of device to gain 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 key holder and stick it to the underside of your car. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member to save them if they need to.
You can also contact your local dealer to inquire whether they can help. Many dealers will give you temporary keys to enable you to return to your vehicle. They might need to see proof of ownership and some other personal details so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep your spare in a secure location. This will reduce the chance that you'll lock yourself out. Keep a spare key in your purse, wallet, or one of the magnetic boxes you can hide on the underside of your vehicle. You could also give a spare to a friend who lives close by or someone from your family who may be able to help you in a pinch. You could also write your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece of paper and keeping it in your glove compartment to quickly contact the owner of the vehicle if you get locked out.
You can call roadside help in the event that 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, says Moody. Certain companies, such as AAA will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of roadside assistance will vary based on your membership level and the coverage plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without having to call roadside assistance. However, these tactics can cause damage to your door and should only be used as an emergency.
Always call emergency services if there is an immediate threat if you can't unlock your vehicle. This includes if there are pets or children inside the vehicle, you're stuck on a busy road or your vehicle is in a hazardous place. The police typically unlock a vehicle for free however, it is recommended not to do so and instead find a different way to get back into the vehicle. If you're a part of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage that covers your costs, but be sure to check the conditions of your policy to ensure. If not, you'll need to pay out of pocket for the locksmith service or roadside assistance.