How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your vehicle and realize you've locked the keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that can make you feel overwhelmed and insecure.
If you're lucky that one of your family members or friends will have an additional key that could allow access to your vehicle. If not, you'll need to call an locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Call a family member or friend
It is possible to shut the car door accidentally when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Sometimes, we are distracted. For example, when we're on the phone with someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car is no fun. Particularly if you do not have a spare key! It is a stressful time but there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to call your family or friend. They will be notified that you're in trouble and they might even bring a spare car key. If they can't however, they'll be able to help you by using other tools to unlock your vehicle. This can include items like a doorstop coat hanger wire, or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is hazardous, such as if an elderly person, child or any other person's security is in danger. They can dispatch an emergency crew to your location who will either use a slim jim to unlock the door or break the window.
If the situation is not dangerous, it is best to wait until a professional can help you unlock your vehicle. DIY methods may cause damage to the door and activate security systems, or invalidate your warranty. It is important to know that these methods might not work with the latest automobiles due to their unique locking mechanisms.
You should consider purchasing a spare car key to avoid this from occurring again. These are usually inexpensive for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a smart key fob. They will save you much stress in the long run! It's also a good idea to keep them in a secure place that is accessible like your wallet or purse.
2. Call for a locksmith
It's a fact that you're bound to lock your keys inside your car at some point. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to discover that your keys are missing when the door is shut.
In order to avoid this situation it is recommended to keep a spare key in a secure place at work, home, or your gym bag. Many people are also able to purchase a keychain which is attached to their wallet or purse in case they forget their keys. You will always have an extra key on hand and will not have to worry about contacting roadside assistance or attempting to break into your vehicle.
If you don't have an extra set of keys, it's recommended to contact a professional locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and can even make new keys on the spot. They will also be able to offer tips on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can have a locksmith sent to you promptly and at a reasonable cost. The majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies also include roadside assistance. These services will be able to get you into your car quickly, but they may cost more than a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY alternatives to open a car without the key for example, a shoelace, a wire hanger, or a curved wedge. These options are dangerous, time-consuming, and are more likely to damage your window or break the lock. It is important to remain calm and only employ these tricks as a last option. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, or you are on the side of a highway, you should call 911 immediately. The police can assist you, or may call a towing service for you.
3. Call a towing company
Next, you need to call a towing company. Many of these services can open your car's door without harming it. 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 call them quickly. They might even offer to help you out for free. You can also contact the police non-emergency line and let them know about your problem. They can give you tips on how to get in your vehicle and send someone to help if necessary.
Getting locked out of your car is never a good idea, particularly when you are stranded in an unsafe environment. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be dangerous, so you should always examine your surroundings prior to asking for assistance. If you're not sure how to unlock your vehicle, it is important to check all of the windows and doors. You may have left a tiny window open. This could allow you to gain access.
You could also try to break into your car with tools like a slim Jim. However, this is not recommended as it could damage the locks on your vehicle. It is also important to remember that most insurance policies will not cover the repair costs therefore, you must be aware before 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 either keep it in your wallet or purse or buy 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 help them in the event of need.
You can also reach out to your local dealer to find out whether they can assist. Most dealers will provide you with an emergency key so you can get back into your vehicle. Be prepared for evidence of ownership as well as other personal information.
4. Call AAA
Keep a spare in a safe place. This makes it less likely you'll be locked out. Keep an extra key in your purse, wallet or in one of the magnetic boxes can be tucked away in the underside of your car. You can also leave a spare in the hands of someone who lives close by or a family member who might be able to help out in a pinch. You could also think about writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in the glove compartment to quickly call the owner of the vehicle should you lock yourself out.
You can call roadside help for assistance if you don't have a spare. Moody says that some companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a few hours. Others, like AAA, will dispatch a locksmith immediately. The cost of a roadside assistance will differ based on the membership level you have and the coverage plan.
You can also employ a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without calling roadside assistance. However, these methods can harm your door and should only be used as an emergency.
If you can't unlock your car You should always call emergency services only if it is in immediate danger. This includes if there are children or pets inside the vehicle, you're trapped in an active road or your vehicle is in a dangerous location. The police will typically unlock a vehicle for free however, it is best to avoid doing so and instead find a different method of getting back in the vehicle. You may be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Check your policy terms to ensure. If not, you will need to pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside service.