How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your car only to discover that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that can leave you feeling in a state of panic and helpless.
If you're lucky you, one of your family members or friends may have an additional key that could give you access to the vehicle. If you don't have an extra key, you might have to contact an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Contact a family member, or friend
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere, and we accidentally shut the car's door without thinking. Sometimes it happens because we are distracted. For instance, when we're talking on the phone with someone else or listening to the radio. It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your vehicle. Particularly when you don't have a spare key! It can be incredibly stressful however the good thing is that there are some effective ways to regain access.
Call a family member or friend. This will give them a heads-up that you're in trouble and they might be able bring a spare key. If getting spare key for car can't however, they'll be able to help you by using other tools to unlock your car. This could include things like a doorstop, wire coat hanger, or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is hazardous, such as if an elderly person, a child or anyone else's safety is at risk. You can call 911 and they will dispatch a crew to your location to either break the window or unlock the door with a small jim.
If the situation is not risky, it is recommended to wait until a professional can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. This is because DIY methods could cause damage to the door and security systems, as well as void the warranty. It's also important to know that some of these methods might not work on newer cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
You should consider purchasing a spare car key to stop this from happening again. These can be inexpensive for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll save you a lot of stress in the near future! You can also keep them in a location that is easily accessible, such as your purse or wallet.
2. Call an expert locksmith
You're likely to put your keys in your car at some point. It can be extremely frustrating and embarrassing to realize that your keys are missing when the door is shut.
In order to avoid this scenario, you should always keep an extra key in a safe place at home, work, or your gym bag. Many people buy a keychain is attached to their purses or wallets in the event that they lose their keys. This way, you will have the spare key on hand in a hurry and won't have to worry about the embarrassment that could result from calling for assistance at the roadside or stealing your own vehicle.
If you don't have an extra key, it's recommended to contact an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to open your vehicle without causing damage to the lock. They will even create new keys on site. They will also offer advice on how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If you are a member of AAA this is an obvious option; they can send you a locksmith quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. Additionally, most comprehensive auto insurance policies include roadside assistance. These services can help you get back into your vehicle quickly however, they may cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are several DIY alternatives to open a car without the key like a shoelace, wire hanger or a curved wedge. These methods are risky, time-consuming, and more likely to harm your window or damage the lock. You should remain calm and only use these techniques as a last resort. If you have children or pets in your vehicle, or are stuck on the side of a highway, you must immediately dial 911. You can seek help from the police, or they can arrange for a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
Next, you need to call a towing service. A lot of these companies can unlock your car's doors without damaging it. If you are a roadside assistance customer make sure the number is programmed in your phone or you are aware of it so that you can contact them easily. You could be eligible for free assistance. Alternatively, you can also contact the police non-emergency line and let them know about your problem. They can provide you with tips on how to get into your vehicle and send someone to help if necessary.
It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your vehicle particularly if you're in a hazardous area. You should always check the surroundings before calling for assistance, especially if you are in a foreign location or on a busy highway at night. 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 slightly open, which can sometimes allow access.
Another option is to try and break into your car using tools like a slim jim. This is not recommended as it could cause damage to your car's locks. It is also important to remember that the majority of insurance policies don't cover the costs of these repairs Therefore, you should be cautious when making use of any tool to gain entry into your vehicle.
One of the best ways to avoid this from happening is to keep a spare key handy. You can keep it in your purse or wallet or buy a magnetic key holder and attach it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member so that they can save them if they need to.
You can also call your local dealer and ask whether they can help out. Many dealers will give you an interim key so that you can get back into your car. Be prepared to be asked for proof of ownership as well as other personal information.
4. Call AAA
As an owner, you can do your part to reduce the chance that you will get locked out of your vehicle by keeping an extra key in a secure place. Stash a spare in your wallet, purse or one of those magnetic boxes that you can hide in the underside of your car. You can leave a spare with a nearby friend or family member who might be able to assist you in a pinch. You may also want to consider having your vehicle identification number, or VIN, written on a piece paper inside the glove box to help you quickly get the vehicle's owner to call you if you are locked out of the car.
If you don't have a spare keys, you can call roadside assistance. Moody says that some firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a few hours. Other companies, like AAA, will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of a roadside assistance will differ based on the level of membership you have as well as your insurance plan.
There are a few other methods to open your car without requesting roadside assistance, for instance using an inflatable wedge or a bobby pin. These tactics can damage the door and should only be used as a last option.
Only call emergency services in the event of immediate danger if you cannot unlock your vehicle. This includes if there are pets or children in the vehicle, you are stuck in a traffic jam or your vehicle is in a risky location. It is recommended to avoid using the police and instead try other methods of getting back into your car. You could be covered under your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Check your policy terms to confirm. If not, you will be required pay for the locksmith service or roadside assistance.