How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your vehicle and realize that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that can make you feel panicked and insecure.
If you're lucky, a friend or family member will have a spare key that can allow you access to your vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you may need to contact an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Call a friend or family member
We can close the car door accidentally when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Sometimes, it happens when we're distracted, such as when we're talking with someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brain doesn't seem to be able to focus. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car isn't fun. It's even more frustrating when you don't have a spare key. It can be stressful however, there are ways to gain access.
Contact a family member or friend. This will notify them that you are in trouble. They may be able to bring an extra key. If not however, they'll be able to assist by using other tools to unlock your vehicle. You can use things like a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if you believe the situation is threatening, such as if an elderly person, child, or anyone's security is in danger. You can dial 911 and they will send a crew to your location to either break the window or unlock the door using a slim jim.
If the situation isn't dangerous It is better to seek assistance from family or friends before attempting to unlock your own vehicle. DIY methods may damage the door and activate security systems, or even void your warranty. It is also important to remember that certain methods may not work with the latest models due to their special locking mechanisms.
To avoid this happening in the future, consider buying a spare key for your vehicle. They can be affordable for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. Either way, they will save you a lot of stress in the future! You can also keep them in a spot that is easy to reach, like your wallet or purse.
2. Contact a locksmith
It is inevitable to lock your keys in your car at one time or another. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to find out that your keys are missing after the door has closed.
In order to avoid this happening ensure that you keep your spare key in a safe location at home, work or in your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain can be attached to their wallet or purse in the event that they lose their keys. This way, you will have a spare key on hand in a hurry and won't have to worry about the potential embarrassment of needing assistance at the roadside or stealing your own vehicle.
If you don't own an extra set of keys, it's best to call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith can unlock your car without damaging the lock and could even create new keys on site. They'll also be able to offer tips on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA you can get a locksmith sent to you promptly and at a low cost. The majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies also 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 numerous DIY options to open the car without keys. They include using a shoelace or a wire hook. However, these methods can be risky and time-consuming and are more likely to break the lock or damage your window. You should remain calm and only use these methods as a last option. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, or if you're stuck on the side of the highway, it's important to immediately dial 911. You can seek assistance from the police or they can organize a towing service.
3. Call a towing company
Next, you need to contact a towing company. A majority of these companies are able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have an emergency roadside assistance plan, make sure that the number is in your phone or that you are aware of it in order to easily contact them. They might even offer to assist you for no cost. You can also call the non-emergency police line and let them know about the issue. You can also get advice on how to get into your vehicle and they'll call someone in case of need.
Getting locked out of your vehicle is not a pleasant experience, especially when you're stuck in a hazardous location. Inconvenient roads or locations at night can be dangerous, so you should always be aware of your surroundings prior to asking for assistance. If you're not sure how to unlock your vehicle, it's crucial to look at all the doors and windows. It could be that you've left a window open, which can sometimes allow you access.
Another option is to try and break into your car using tools like a slim jim. But, this isn't advised and could cause damage to the locks on your vehicle. car key spare near me is also important to remember that most insurance policies will not cover the cost of these repairs therefore, you must be aware before making use of any kind of tool to gain entry into your vehicle.
One of the best ways to stop 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 stick it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people even leave spare keys with a trusted friend or family member so that they can rescue them if needed.
You can also call your local dealer to see whether they can help out. Many dealers will give you temporary keys so that you can return to your car. Be prepared for proof of ownership as well in other personal information.
4. Call AAA
As a driver, you can do your part to reduce the likelihood that you'll be locked out of your car by keeping your spare keys in a secure place. Keep the spare key in your wallet, purse, or one of the magnetic containers that you can put on the underside your vehicle. You can also leave one with a nearby family member or friend who could be able to help you in a hurry. You may also think about having your vehicle's identification number, also known as VIN written on a piece paper in the glove box to be able to quickly contact the owner of your vehicle on the phone when you are locked out of the car.
If you don't have a spare keys, you can call roadside assistance. Moody states that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a few hours. Certain companies, like AAA, will dispatch a locksmith right away. The cost of roadside assistance will vary depending on the membership level you have and your coverage plan.
There are several other ways to open your car without requesting assistance at the roadside, such as using an inflatable wedge or bobby pin. These techniques can damage the door and should be used only as a last option.
Only call emergency services in the event of immediate danger if you cannot unlock your vehicle. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, you are on a busy highway, or in a risky area, then call emergency services. It is recommended to avoid contacting the police and try other methods of getting back to your vehicle. You could be covered under your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Examine the terms of your policy to make sure. If not, you will have pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside assistance.