How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your vehicle only to realize that you've locked the keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that makes you feel overwhelmed and helpless.
If you're lucky you'll find a family or friend member may have a spare key to allow access to your vehicle. If not, you'll need to call a locksmith or a towing service to get help.
1. Contact a family member or friend
Sometimes we rush to get somewhere and then close the car door without thinking. Sometimes, it happens when we are distracted, like when we're talking with someone on the phone or listening to a radio show and our brain just doesn't completely focus. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car isn't enjoyable experience. Particularly when you don't have a spare key! It can be a stressful experience however the good news is that there are some effective methods to regain access.
The first step is to call an acquaintance or family member. spare car key cost will be notified that you're in trouble and they might even bring an extra car key. If not, they will at the very least help you with other tools that could be used to unlock the car. This could include things like a doorstop coat hanger wire or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is threatening for instance, if an elderly person, a child or anyone else's safety is in danger. You can dial 911 and they will send an emergency crew to your home to break the window or unlock the door with a small jim.
If the situation is not dangerous, it is best to wait until someone else can help you unlock your vehicle. DIY methods can damage the door and also activate security systems or even void your warranty. It is important to remember that these methods may not work with the latest automobiles due to their unique locking mechanisms.
To avoid this occurring in the future take into consideration buying a spare key for your vehicle. They can be affordable for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a smart key fob. Either way, they will save you lots of stress in the near future! It's also a good idea to store them in a secure location that is easy to access, such as in your wallet or purse.
2. Call a locksmith
You're likely to lock your keys in your car at some point. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to find out that your keys are missing after closing the door.
To avoid this happening it is recommended to keep your spare key in a safe location at work, home or in your gym bag. Many people are also able to purchase a keychain that they can attach to their purse or wallet 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 having to call for assistance at the roadside or a break-in to your personal vehicle.
If you don't own a spare, it is best to call an expert locksmith. A professional will be able open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and they can even make you new keys right on the spot. They will also offer advice on how to avoid being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can have locksmith services delivered to you promptly and at a reasonable cost. The majority of comprehensive insurance policies for automobiles also provide roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your vehicle in a hurry however, they may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are a variety of DIY options to open your car without a key, such as a shoelace, wire hanger, or a curved wedge. These methods are dangerous, time-consuming, and more likely to harm your window or damage the lock. You should remain calm and only use these tricks as a last resort. Call 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your vehicle, or if you are stuck on the highway. You can seek help from the police, or they can arrange for a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
Next, you need to call a towing company. A lot of these companies can open your car's door without damaging it. If you have roadside assistance make sure that the number is programmed in your phone or you know it to be able to call them quickly. You might be offered assistance for free. Alternately, you can contact the non-emergency police line and let them know about your issue. They can provide you with tips on how to get into your vehicle and send someone to assist if required.
It's never fun to be locked out of your car especially when you're in a danger zone. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be hazardous, so you should always be aware of your surroundings prior to asking for help. Examine all windows and doors if you're not sure how to unlock your vehicle. It may be that you've left a window partially open, which may allow you access.
You can also try to gain entry into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. However, this isn't advised and could cause damage to the locks on your vehicle. It is important to know that most insurance policies will not cover these repairs. Therefore, you must be cautious when using any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your purse or wallet. You can keep it in your wallet or purse or purchase a magnetic key holder and then attach it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people leave a spare car key with a family member or trusted friends so that they can find it in the event of need.
You can also call your local dealer to see whether they can help out. Many dealers will give you a temporary key so that you can return to your vehicle. They may ask you to show proof of ownership along with other personal details, so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep your spare in a secure place. This will make it less likely you'll get locked out. Keep a spare key in your purse, wallet, or one of the magnetic boxes that can be tucked away on the underside your vehicle. You could also leave a spare in the hands of an acquaintance who lives nearby or a family member who might be able to assist you out in the event of a crisis. You might also consider writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in the glove compartment so you can quickly call the owner of the vehicle if you are locked out.
If you don't have a spare keys and you're in need of roadside assistance. Some companies specialize in unlocking cars and will send technicians to your location within a half hour or so, says Moody. Other companies, like AAA, will dispatch a locksmith immediately. The cost of roadside services will differ based on your membership level and the coverage plan.
You can also employ a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without contacting roadside assistance. These techniques can damage the door and should be used only as a last option.
If you can't unlock your car You should always call emergency services only if it is an immediate danger. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, are stuck on a busy highway, or are in a dangerous area, you should contact emergency services. The police are usually able to unlock a vehicle for no cost but it's recommended not to do so and instead try another method of getting back into the car. If spare car key cost 're a part of an auto club or have roadside assistance insurance it will likely cover your costs, but make sure you read the terms of your policy to ensure. If not, the locksmith or roadside assistance is your responsibility.