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 the keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that makes you feel panicked and insecure.
If you're lucky you'll find a family or friend member will have a spare key that can give 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
It is possible to close the car door in error when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Sometimes it happens because we are distracted. For instance, if we're talking on the phone with someone else or listening to the radio. It's not fun to be locked out of your car. It's even worse when you don't have a spare key. It can be incredibly stressful, but the good news is that there are efficient ways to gain access.
The first step is to contact a friend or family member. This will inform them that you're in trouble and they might even bring a spare car key. If not, they will at a minimum be able to assist you with other tools that could be used to unlock the car. You can make use of items such as an iron coat hanger or shoelaces.
Contact 911 immediately if the situation is threatening for instance, if an elderly person, a child or anyone else's safety is at risk. You can dial 911 and they will dispatch an emergency team to your home to break the window or open the door using a slim jim.
If the situation is not risky, it is recommended to wait until someone else can help you unlock your vehicle. DIY methods may cause damage to your door and activate security systems, or even void your warranty. spare car key cut 's also important to know that certain methods may not work on newer cars because they are equipped with specific locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from occurring in the future you should consider purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. These can be inexpensive for a basic metal key or more expensive for a smart key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll save you lots of stress in the near future! You can also store them in a place that is easy to reach, like your wallet or purse.
2. Call an expert locksmith
It's a given that you're likely to lock your keys in your car at some point. It can be extremely frustrating and embarrassing to realize that keys are missing when the door is shut.
To avoid this situation Keep a spare at your home, at work or in your bag for exercise. Many people also purchase a key chain which is attached to their wallet or purse to ensure they never lose their keys. This way, you'll have a spare key on your desk in a snap and you won't have to fret about the embarrassment that could result from having to call for roadside assistance or stealing your own 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 to open your vehicle without damaging the lock and will even create new keys on site. They can also provide advice on how to prevent being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA, this is a no-brainer; they can provide you with a locksmith fast and at a cost that is reasonable. Additionally, most comprehensive auto insurance policies provide roadside assistance. These services can get you back into your vehicle quickly however, they may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are numerous DIY options to open the car without keys. These include using a shoelace or a wire hook. These options are dangerous, time-consuming, and are more likely to damage your window or damage the lock. It is crucial to remain in a calm state and use these methods only as the last option. If you have pets or children in your vehicle, or if you're stuck on the side of the highway, you should immediately call 911. You can seek help from the police or can find a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is calling a towing service. A majority of these companies are able to open your car without damaging the door lock. If you have a roadside assistance plan ensure that the number is in your phone or you know it so that you can quickly contact them. You might be offered assistance for free. Alternately, you can contact the non-emergency police line and tell them the issue. You can receive tips on how to enter your car and they'll provide assistance if required.
Locked out of your vehicle is never a good idea, particularly when you're stuck in a dangerous location. Inconvenient roads or locations at night can be hazardous so it is important to check your surroundings before calling for assistance. If you are unsure about how to unlock your vehicle, it is essential to examine all the doors and windows. It is possible that you left a tiny window open. This can sometimes allow you to gain access.
Another option is to try and break into your car using tools such as a slim jim. This is not recommended since it can damage the locks of your vehicle. It is also important to note that most insurance policies will not cover the costs of these repairs Therefore, you should be aware before using any type of device to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your wallet or purse. You can either keep it in your wallet or purse or buy a magnetic key holder and then attach it to the underside of your car. Some people even leave spare keys 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 inquire whether they can assist. The majority of dealers will be able to give you an interim key so that you can be back in your vehicle. They will probably require proof of ownership along with other personal information so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep your spare in a secure location. This will make it less likely you'll be locked out. Keep a spare key in your wallet, purse or in one of the magnetic boxes you can put on the underside your vehicle. You could also leave a spare with someone who lives close by or an individual from your family who might be able to help out in the event of a crisis. You could also think about writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in your glove compartment so you can quickly call the owner of the vehicle should you lock yourself out.
If you don't have a spare keys and you're in need of roadside assistance. Moody says that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Others, such as AAA will dispatch a locksmith immediately. The cost of a roadside service will differ based on the level of membership you have and your insurance plan.
There are several alternatives to unlock your car without calling roadside assistance, such as using an inflatable wedge or Bobby pin. These methods can cause damage to the door and should be used only as a last option.
Only call emergency services when there is immediate danger if you cannot unlock your vehicle. This includes if there are children or pets inside the vehicle, you are stuck in a traffic jam or your vehicle is in a hazardous location. It is recommended to avoid calling the police and look for alternative methods of getting to your car. You could be covered under your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Review the policy's terms to make sure. If not, the roadside assistance or locksmith will be your responsibility.