How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your car and realise you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that can leave you feeling panicked and helpless.
If you're fortunate, one of your family members or friends has an extra key that can give you access to the vehicle. If not, you'll need to call an emergency locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Contact a family or friend member
Sometimes we rush to get somewhere and then shut the car door without thinking. Sometimes it happens when we are distracted, for example, when we're talking with someone on the phone or listening to a radio show and our brain just doesn't seem to be able to focus. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car isn't enjoyable experience. It's even worse when you don't have an extra key. It is a stressful time, but there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to contact an acquaintance or family member. This will give them a heads-up that you are in trouble and they might be able to bring an extra key. If they can't, at least they will be able to assist you by using other tools to unlock your car. You can use things like a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
Contact 911 immediately if the situation is threatening such as when an elderly person, a child or any other person's safety is at risk. They can send an emergency crew to your location who will either use a slim jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation is not risky, it is recommended to wait until a professional can help you unlock your vehicle. DIY methods may damage the door, activate security systems or even void your warranty. It's also important to note that some of these methods might not work with newer vehicles, as they have special locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from happening in the future take into consideration purchasing a spare key for your vehicle. They can be inexpensive for a simple metal key or costly for a high-end fob. They can save you lots of stress in the long run! It's also a good idea to keep them in a secure place that is accessible for example, in your wallet or purse.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
You're likely to lock your keys in your car at some time or another. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to realize that keys are missing after the door has closed.
In order to avoid this situation ensure that you keep a spare key in a secure place at home, work or in your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain that is attached to their purse or wallet in the event that they lose their keys. You will always have an extra key on hand and won't need to worry about calling roadside assistance, or attempting to break into your vehicle.
However, if you don't have a spare key the best thing to do is to contact locksmith assistance. A professional locksmith can open your car without damaging the lock and can even make new keys on the spot. They can also provide advice on how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA you can get locksmith services delivered to you promptly and at an affordable price. The most comprehensive insurance policies for automobiles also provide roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your car quickly but they can cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are many DIY alternatives to unlock the car without keys. This includes using a shoelace or wire hook. These techniques are risky, time-consuming and more likely to harm your window or damage the lock. It is essential to remain at peace and use these techniques only as the last resort. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, or are stuck on the side of a highway, it's important to immediately dial 911. You can seek assistance from the police or they can arrange for a towing company.
3. Call a towing service
Next, you need to call a towing company. A lot of these companies are able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies, make sure that the phone number is set into your phone or that you are aware of it so that you can easily contact them. You could be eligible for free assistance. You can also contact the non-emergency police line and let them know about your issue. You can also get advice on how to get into your car and they'll provide assistance if required.
It's not fun to be locked out of your vehicle, especially if you are in a dangerous environment. Inconvenient roads or locations at night can be hazardous, so you should always check your surroundings before calling for help. If you are unsure about how to unlock your car, it is essential to examine all the windows and doors. It could be that you have left a window slightly open, which can sometimes give you access.
You can also try to break into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. This is not recommended since it could damage the locks of your vehicle. It is also important to remember that the majority of insurance policies will not cover the repair costs Therefore, you should be aware before making use of any tool to gain entry into your vehicle.
Keep an extra car key in your wallet or purse. 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 an amiable family member to rescue them if needed.
You can also call your local dealer and see if they can help you out. The majority of dealers can provide you with temporary keys to enable you to return to your car. Be prepared to be asked for evidence of ownership as well in other personal information.
4. Call AAA
Keep a spare in a safe location. This will make it less likely you'll get locked out. Keep i need a spare key for my car in your purse, wallet or in one of the magnetic boxes that can be tucked away on the underside of your vehicle. You could also leave one with a family member or friend who could be able to help you in a hurry. You may also consider having your vehicle identification number, or VIN, written on a piece of paper in the glove box to help you quickly call the owner of the car on the phone when you're locked out of the vehicle.
If you don't have a spare key or a spare key, you can contact roadside assistance. Moody states that certain firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Others, such as AAA, will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of roadside assistance will vary based on the membership level you have and your coverage plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without contacting roadside assistance. These tactics can damage the door and should be used only as a last resort.
If you can't unlock your vehicle You should always call for emergency services only if it is a immediate risk. This includes if you have pets or children inside the vehicle, you are stuck in a traffic jam, or your vehicle is in a risky location. The police will typically unlock a vehicle for no cost however, it is recommended not to do so and instead try another method of getting back into the car. You could be covered under your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Examine the terms of your policy to ensure. If not, you'll be required pay for the locksmith service or roadside assistance.