How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your vehicle and realize you've locked the keys inside. You might feel overwhelmed and scared.
If you're lucky, a friend or family member may have a spare key that can give you access to your vehicle. If you don't have an extra key, you might need to call an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Contact a family or friend member
Sometimes we rush to get somewhere, and we accidentally shut the car door without thinking. Sometimes, we're distracted. For instance, if we're on the phone to someone or listening to radio. It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your vehicle. It's even more frustrating when you don't have an extra key. It is a stressful time however, there are ways to gain access.
Call your family member or a friend. This will alert them that you're in trouble and they might be able bring a spare key. If not, they'll at the very least assist you with other tools that could be used to unlock the car. This can include items like a doorstop wire coat hanger, or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, like if there is an elderly person or a child stuck in a hot room, or if someone's physical safety is in danger it is recommended to immediately call 911. They can dispatch an emergency team 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 someone else can help you unlock your vehicle. spare key maker is due to the fact that DIY methods can cause damage to the door and trigger security systems, or end the warranty. It's important to note that these methods might not be compatible with newer cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
Consider buying a spare car key to stop this from happening again. They can be inexpensive for a simple key made of metal or expensive for a smart fob. They can help you save a great deal of stress in the long term! It's recommended to keep them in a safe place that is easy to access for example, in your wallet or purse.
2. Call for a locksmith
You're bound to put your keys in your car at some moment. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to discover that your keys are missing after closing the door.
To avoid this scenario Keep a spare at home, your workplace, or in your bag for your gym. Many people buy a keychain is attached to their purses or wallets in case they lose their keys. This way, you'll have a spare key at the go and don't have to worry about embarrassment if you end up having to call for assistance on the road or breaking into your own vehicle.
If you don't own a spare, it is best to call a professional locksmith. A professional will be able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the lock, and they can even make keys for you immediately. They can also give you suggestions on how to avoid being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can get locksmiths delivered to you swiftly and at an affordable price. The most comprehensive auto insurance policies also include roadside assistance. These services can be used to get you in your car in a short time, but they could cost more than a professional locksmith.
There are numerous DIY options to open your car without a key. They include using a shoelace or wire hook. These options are risky, time-consuming and more likely to harm your window or damage the lock. It is crucial to remain at peace and use these techniques only as the last resort. If you have pets or children in your vehicle, or if you're stuck on the side of a highway, it's important to immediately dial 911. You can seek assistance from the police or they can find a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to call an towing service. A majority of these companies are able to unlock your car without damaging the door lock. If you have an emergency roadside assistance plan, make sure that the number is in your phone or that you know it so that you can quickly contact them. You may be offered assistance for free. You can also contact the police non-emergency line and explain your issue. They will give you advice on how to get in your vehicle and send someone to assist if required.
It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your car especially when you're in a dangerous environment. You should always check the surrounding area before calling for assistance particularly if you're in an unfamiliar place or on a busy highway at night. Make sure you check all doors and windows if not sure how to unlock your vehicle. It could be that you have left a window partially open, which could give you access.
You can also attempt to break into your car using tools such as a slim Jim. But, this isn't recommended as it could damage the locks on your vehicle. You should also be aware that most insurance policies will not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, it is important to be cautious before using any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep an extra car key in your purse or wallet. You can either keep it in your wallet or purse 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 so that they can save them if they need to.
You can also reach out to your local dealer to see if they are able to help. Most dealers can give you temporary keys to allow you to return to your vehicle. Be prepared to be asked for proof of ownership as well in other personal information.
4. Call AAA
As driver, you should do your part to make it less likely that you'll lock yourself out of your vehicle by keeping your spare keys in a secure place. Place a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of the magnetic boxes that can be tucked away on the underside of your car. You could also give a spare to a friend who lives nearby or someone from your family who may be able to help out in a pinch. You could also think about writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece of paper and storing it in your glove compartment so that you can quickly contact the owner of the vehicle in case you get locked out.
You can call roadside help if you don't own an extra. Certain companies specialize in unlocking vehicles and will send an expert to your location within an hour or less, according to Moody. Others, such as AAA will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of roadside services will differ based on your membership level and 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 be used only as a last resort.
If you're unable to unlock your car, you should always contact emergency assistance only if there is an immediate danger. This includes if there are pets or children in the vehicle, you're stuck in a traffic jam, or your vehicle is in a dangerous location. It is best to avoid calling the police and instead try other methods of getting back to your car. You could be covered under your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Review the policy's terms to confirm. If not, the roadside assistance or locksmith service is your responsibility.