How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your car and realize that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that makes you feel in a state of panic and helpless.
If you're lucky, someone in your family or a friend has an extra key that can give you access to the vehicle. If not, you might require a locksmith or a towing service to get help.
1. Contact a family member, or friend
It is possible to close the car door in error when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Sometimes, it happens when we are distracted, for example, when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brain doesn't quite focus. It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your car. It's even more stressful when you don't have an extra key. It can be a stressful experience however the good thing is that there are some effective ways to regain 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 an extra car key. If not, they will at the very least assist you with other tools that can be used to open the car. This can include items such as a doorstop, wire coat hanger, or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, such as when there is an elderly person or child locked in a hot room or if a person's physical safety is in danger it is recommended to immediately dial 911. You can call 911 and they will dispatch an emergency team to your location to break the window or unlock the door using a slim jim.
Unless the situation is dangerous and you're in danger, it's recommended to seek help from family or friends before attempting to unlock your vehicle on your own. This is due to the fact that DIY methods could cause damage to the door, trigger security systems or cause the warranty to be void. It is important to remember that these methods may not be compatible with modern cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from occurring in the future you should consider purchasing a spare key for your vehicle. These can be inexpensive for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a smart key fob. Either way, they will help you avoid a lot of stress in the near future! It's also a good idea to keep them in a secure location that is easy to access like your purse or wallet.
2. Call a locksmith
It's a fact of life that you're bound to lock your keys in your car at some time. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to find out that your keys are not there when the door is shut.
To avoid this scenario, you should always keep a spare key in a safe place at work, home 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 be concerned about calling roadside assistance, or breaking into your car.
If you don't have an extra key the best thing you can do is call locksmith assistance. A professional locksmith can open your car without causing damage to the lock. They will even create new keys on site. They'll also be able 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 send you a locksmith promptly and at a cost that is reasonable. Furthermore, the majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies provide roadside assistance. These services can help you get back in your car quickly, but may cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY alternatives to unlock a car without a key. This includes using a shoelace, or a wire hook. These methods are dangerous, time-consuming, and are more likely to damage your window or damage the lock. Be make a spare key near me and only employ these techniques only as a last resort. Call 911 immediately if you have pets or children in your vehicle or if you're stuck on a highway. The police will be able assist you, or can contact a towing company to assist you.
3. Call a towing service
Next, you need to call a towing company. Many of these services can open your car's door without damaging it. If you have a roadside assistance plan ensure that the number is in your phone or that you know it so that you can easily contact them. You may be offered assistance for free. You can also contact non-emergency police and inform them about the issue. They will give you advice on how to get in your vehicle and send an emergency assistance person if needed.
It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your vehicle, especially if you are in a dangerous environment. Always check the surrounding area before calling for help particularly in a foreign location or on a road that is busy at night. If you aren't sure how to unlock your vehicle, it is important to check all of the windows and doors. You may have left a window that was slightly open. This may allow you to gain access.
Another alternative is to get into your car with tools such as a slim jim. But, this isn't recommended and can damage the locks on your car. You should also be aware that the majority of insurance policies do not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, you must be careful when using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key handy. You can store it in a purse or wallet, or you can buy an electronic key holder for your car box and place it on the underside of your car. Some people leave their spare car key with someone in the family or a trusted friend to find it in the event of need.
You can also contact your local dealer to see whether they can assist. Most dealers can give you temporary keys to enable you to return to your vehicle. They might ask you to show proof of ownership and some other personal details and you should be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
As driver, you should help reduce the likelihood that you will lock yourself out of your vehicle by keeping your spare keys in a safe location. Keep the spare key in your wallet, purse or in one of the magnetic boxes you can hide in the underside of your car. You could 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 paper and storing it in your glove compartment so that you can quickly call the owner of the vehicle should you lock yourself out.
If you don't have a spare keys or a spare key, you can contact roadside assistance. Some locksmiths specialize in unlocking cars and will send an expert to your location within a half hour or less, according to Moody. Certain companies, like AAA, will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of roadside assistance will vary based on the membership level you have and your the coverage plan.
There are a few other ways to open your car without calling assistance at the roadside, such as using an inflatable wedge or Bobby pin. These techniques can damage the door and should only be used as a last option.
Call emergency services only in the event of immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. 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 area. It is best to avoid contacting the police and look for alternative methods of getting to your vehicle. If you're a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage that covers your costs, but make sure you read the conditions of your policy to confirm. If not, you will be required to pay for the locksmith or roadside assistance.