How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your vehicle only to realize that you've locked the keys inside. You might feel insecure and overwhelmed.
If you're fortunate you, a family member or friend may have an additional key that can give you access to the vehicle. If not, spare keys for cars might require an emergency locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Contact a family or friend member
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere, and we accidentally shut the car door without thinking. Sometimes it happens when we are distracted, like when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brains don't completely focus. It's never fun to be locked out of your car. It's even more stressful 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 a friend or family member. This will inform them that you're in trouble and they could even bring an extra car key. If not, they'll at least be able to help you with other tools that can be used to unlock the car. This could include items such as a doorstop, coat hanger made of wire or even shoelaces.
Contact 911 immediately if the situation is dangerous for instance, if an elderly person, child or any other person's security is in danger. They can dispatch an emergency team to your location, who can either use a slim jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation isn't hazardous, it is best to wait until someone else can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. DIY methods may damage the door and activate security systems, or even void your warranty. It's important to note that these methods might not be compatible with newer cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
Consider buying an extra car key to stop this from repeating itself. They can be affordable for a simple key made of metal or expensive for a smart fob. They can save you much stress in the end! It's recommended to store them in a secure place that is easy to access for example, in your purse or wallet.
2. Contact for a locksmith
You're bound to lock your keys inside your car at some point. If you were in a rush or just distracted, it's an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize that the door is shut and your keys aren't to be found.
To avoid this situation, keep a spare at your home, at work or in your bag for exercise. Many people purchase a keychain they attach to their purses or wallets in the event that they lose their keys. You'll always have an extra key in your bag and will not have to worry about contacting roadside assistance or attempting to break into your vehicle.
However, if you don't have a spare key the best thing to do is call locksmith assistance. A professional locksmith will be able unlock your vehicle without damaging the lock, and can even make new keys on the spot. They can also give you tips on how to prevent being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can have locksmiths delivered to you swiftly and at an affordable price. Additionally, most comprehensive auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance. These services can be used to get you into your vehicle quickly, however they might cost more than an experienced locksmith.
There are several DIY options for opening cars without keys, such as a shoelace, wire hanger or a curved wedge. However, these techniques can be risky and time-consuming and are more likely to damage the lock or damage your window. It is crucial to remain calm and use these tricks only as a last option. Call 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your vehicle or if you're stuck on the highway. You can seek help from the police or they can find a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to contact a towing company. Many of these services can open your car's door without damaging it. If you have roadside assistance, ensure that the number is programmed into your phone or you are aware of it to be able to call them quickly. They may even offer to assist you for no cost. Alternatively, you can also contact the police non-emergency line and explain your problem. You can also get advice on how to get in 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 danger zone. Unknown roads or places at night can be dangerous and you must be aware of your surroundings prior to asking for help. Make sure you check all windows and doors if you're unsure what to do to unlock your vehicle. It may be that you've left a window slightly open, which may give you access.
You can also attempt to break into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. However, this is not recommended and can damage the locks on your vehicle. You should also be aware that the majority of insurance policies do not cover repairs to these locks. Therefore, you must be cautious before making use of any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to stop this from happening is to keep a spare key on hand. It can be kept in a purse or wallet, or you can buy a magnetic car key holder box and put it on the underside of your car. Some people keep a spare car key with an individual from the family or a trusted friends so that they can be able to retrieve it should they need to.
You can also contact your local dealer to find out if they are able to help. Many dealers will provide you with temporary keys to allow you to return to your car. They may need to see proof of ownership and some other personal information, so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
As a driver, you can do your part to reduce the chance to lock yourself out of your vehicle by keeping a spare key in a secure place. Place a spare key in your purse, wallet or one of those magnetic boxes that you can hide on the underside of your car. You can also give a spare to a friend who lives near by or a family member who might be able to help you out in a pinch. You might also consider having your vehicle identification number, or VIN written on a piece paper in the glove box to be able to quickly contact the owner of your vehicle on the phone if you're locked out of the car.
It is possible to call roadside assistance if you don't own a spare. Some companies specialize in unlocking vehicles and will send a technician to your location within a half hour or so, according to Moody. Other companies, like AAA will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of roadside assistance will vary depending on the membership level you have and your the coverage plan.
You can also employ a bobby-pin or inflatable wedge to open your car without having to call roadside assistance. However, these methods can damage your door and should only be used as a last resort.
If you are unable to unlock your vehicle You should always call emergency services only if it is an immediate danger. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, are on a busy road or are in a hazardous area, you should contact emergency services. It is best to avoid calling the police and try other methods of getting back to your car. If you're a part of an auto club or have roadside assistance insurance, this will probably cover your expenses, but make sure to make sure you read the conditions of your policy to confirm. If not the roadside assistance or locksmith is your responsibility.