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. You may feel insecure and overwhelmed.
If you're fortunate that someone in your family or a friend has an additional key that could give you access to the vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you might need to contact an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Call a friend or family member
We can shut the car door accidentally when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Sometimes, it happens because we're distracted. For example, when we're on the phone to someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car isn't enjoyable experience. It's even worse when you don't have a spare key. It is a stressful time but there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to call your family or friend. This will inform them that you're in trouble, and they may bring a spare car key. If spare key maker , at least they will be able to assist you by using other tools to unlock your car. You can use things like a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is threatening such as when an elderly person, child or anyone else's safety is in danger. They can dispatch an emergency crew to your home, who can either use a slim jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation isn't dangerous, it is best to wait until someone else can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. This is due to the fact that DIY methods can cause damage to the door, trigger security systems or end the warranty. It is important to remember that these methods may not be compatible with newer vehicles due to their specific locking mechanisms.
Consider buying an extra car key to stop this from occurring again. These are usually inexpensive for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. They will save you lots of stress in the end! You can also put them in a spot where they are easy to reach, like your purse or wallet.
2. Call for a locksmith
You're likely to lock your keys inside your car at one moment. Whether you were in a hurry or just distracted, it can be an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize the door has been shut and your keys aren't to be found.
To avoid this scenario, you should always keep an extra key in a secure place at work, home or in your gym bag. Many people also purchase a keychain which is attached to their purse or wallet in case they forget their keys. This way, you'll have the spare key on hand in a hurry and don't have to worry about the potential embarrassment of having to call for assistance on the road or breaking into your own vehicle.
If you don't have an extra key, the best thing to do is call locksmith assistance. A professional will be able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the lock, and they can even make keys for you on the spot. They will also be able provide tips on how to avoid getting locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you are a member of AAA it's an obvious option; they can provide you with a locksmith fast and at a cost that is reasonable. Most comprehensive insurance policies for automobiles also provide roadside assistance. These services will be able to get you in your vehicle quickly, however they could cost more than an experienced locksmith.
There are many DIY options to open cars without keys for example, a shoelace, a wire hanger, or a curved wedge. These methods are dangerous, time-consuming, and are more likely to damage your window or damage the lock. It is important to stay at peace and use these techniques only as a last option. Call 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your car or you are stuck on an expressway. You can get help from the police or they can find a towing company.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is calling a towing service. Many of these services can unlock your car's doors without causing damage. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies, make sure that the number is in your phone or you know it so that you can easily reach them. They might even offer to come and help you out for free. Alternately, you can contact the non-emergency police line and tell them your issue. They can give you tips on how to get in your car and will dispatch 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. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be hazardous and you must be aware of your surroundings prior to asking for assistance. If you are unsure about how to unlock your vehicle, it is crucial to look at all the doors and windows. It could be that you have left a window open, which can sometimes allow access.
You can also try to break into your car with tools like a slim Jim. This is not recommended since it could damage the locks of your vehicle. It is important to note that the majority of insurance policies do not cover the cost of these repairs Therefore, you should be aware before using any type of 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 buy a magnetic key holder and then attach it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people keep a spare car key with a family member or trusted friend to retrieve it if necessary.
You can also call your local dealer to see whether they can help out. The majority of dealers can provide you with temporary keys to allow you to return to your car. Be prepared for proof of ownership as well in other personal information.
4. Call AAA
Keep your spare in a secure place. This will reduce the chance that you'll lock yourself out. Stash a spare in your purse, wallet or one of the magnetic boxes that you can hide on the underside of your vehicle. You could leave a spare with a nearby friend or family member who could be able to help you in a moment of need. You could also think about writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and storing it in your glove compartment so you can quickly call the owner of the vehicle in case you get locked out.
If you don't have a spare keys and you're in need of roadside assistance. Some locksmiths specialize in unlocking cars and will send an expert to your location within a half hour or so, says Moody. Some companies, like AAA, will send a locksmith immediately. The cost of a roadside assistance will differ based on the membership level you have as well as your coverage plan.
You can also employ a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without calling roadside assistance. However, these methods can cause damage to your door and should be used only as the last resort.
If you are unable to unlock your vehicle it is recommended to contact emergency services only if it is in immediate danger. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, you are on a busy road, or are in a hazardous area, you should contact emergency services. It is best to avoid using the police and look for alternative methods of getting to your vehicle. You could be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Check your policy terms to ensure. If not, the roadside assistance or locksmith is your responsibility.