How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your car only to discover that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that makes you feel panicked and insecure.
If you're lucky that a family member or friend has an extra key that can allow you access to the vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you might need to contact an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Contact a family member, or friend
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere and then close the car door without thinking. Sometimes it happens because we are distracted. For example, when we're talking on the phone with someone or listening to radio. It's not fun to be locked out of your car. It's even more stressful when you don't have a spare key. It can be a stressful experience however the good news is that there are some efficient ways to gain access.
Call your family member or friend. This will alert them that you're in trouble. They may be able bring an extra key. If they aren't, at least they will be able to help you with other tools that will allow you to open your vehicle. This could include items such as a doorstop, coat hanger made of wire or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is threatening such as when an elderly person, child or anyone else's security is in danger. You can call 911 and they'll send an emergency team to your location to either break the window or unlock the door using a thin jim.
If the situation isn't risky, it is recommended to wait until a professional can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. DIY methods can damage the door and also activate security systems or invalidate your warranty. It's also important to note that some of these methods may not work on newer cars because they are equipped with specific locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from happening again you should consider purchasing a spare key for your vehicle. These are usually inexpensive for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a smart key fob. In either case, they'll help you avoid a lot of stress in the near future! It's also a good idea to store them in a safe place that is easy to access like your wallet or purse.
2. Call a locksmith
You're bound to lock your keys in your car at one time or another. If you were in a hurry or just distracted, it can be a frustrating and embarrassing moment when you realize the door has been shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
In spare car key price to avoid this scenario, you should always keep your spare key in a safe location at home, work, or 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 the spare key on your desk in a snap and don't have to worry about the potential embarrassment of needing assistance on the road or breaking into your own vehicle.
If you don't have a spare key the best thing you can do is to call a locksmith for help. A professional will be able open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and even create you new keys on the spot. They will also be able to provide tips on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA, this is an obvious option; they can provide you with a locksmith fast and at a reasonable cost. Furthermore, the majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance. These services are able to get you in your vehicle quickly, however they could cost more than a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY ways to open a car without a key. These include using a shoelace or a wire hook. These options are risky, time-consuming and more likely to harm your window or damage the lock. You should remain calm and only employ these methods as a last resort. Contact 911 immediately if have pets or children in your vehicle, or if you are stuck on a highway. You can seek help from the police, or they can arrange for a towing company.
3. Contact a towing company
The next step is calling an towing service. A lot of these companies are able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have roadside assistance, ensure that the number is programmed into your phone or you know that it is able to reach them easily. You could be eligible for free assistance. Alternatively, you can also call the non-emergency police line and let them know about your issue. They will give you advice for getting into your car and will send an emergency assistance person if needed.
It's never fun to be locked out of your car especially when you're in a hazardous area. You must always look around the surroundings before calling for help particularly if you're in an unfamiliar place or on a busy road at night. Examine all doors and windows if you are uncertain about how to unlock your vehicle. It is possible that you left a tiny window open. This could allow you to gain access.
You could also try to gain entry into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. This is not recommended since it can damage the locks on your car. You should also be aware that most insurance policies will not cover these repairs. Therefore, you should be cautious before using any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep an extra car key in your wallet or purse. You can store it in a purse or wallet, or you can buy an auto key holder with a magnetic box and put it on the bottom of your car. 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 if they can help you out. Most dealers will be able to give you an interim key so that you can return to your car. They may ask you to show 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 purse, wallet, or one of the magnetic containers that can be tucked away in the underside of your car. You can also leave one to a close family member or friend who may be able help you in a pinch. You might also consider writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece of paper and keeping it in your glove compartment to quickly contact the owner of the vehicle should you are locked out.
It is possible to call roadside assistance in the event that you don't have an extra. Moody says that certain firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a few hours. Certain companies, such as AAA will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of a roadside assistance will vary depending on the membership level you have and the coverage plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without contacting roadside assistance. These methods can cause damage to the door and should be used only as a last option.
Call emergency services only in the event of immediate threat if you can't unlock your vehicle. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, are stuck on a busy road or in a risky zone, you should call emergency services. It is recommended to avoid calling the police and look for alternative methods of getting to your vehicle. If you are a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage it will likely cover your expenses, but make sure to make sure you read the terms of your policy to ensure. If not the roadside assistance or locksmith will be your responsibility.