How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your vehicle and realize you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that makes you feel panicked and insecure.
If you're lucky, a friend or family member may have a spare key that can allow access to your car. If not, you may need to call an emergency locksmith or towing service for assistance.
1. Call a friend or family member
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere, and we accidentally shut the car's door without thinking. 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, getting locked out of your car isn't enjoyable experience. It's even more frustrating when you don't have an extra key. It can be extremely stressful however the good news is that there are effective ways to regain access.
Contact a family member or friend. This will alert them that you're in trouble and they might be able bring an extra key. If not, at least they will be able to help you with other tools that will allow you to open your vehicle. This could include things like a doorstop, coat hanger wire, 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 a person's physical safety is at risk it is recommended to call 911 immediately. You can dial 911 and they'll send an emergency crew to your home to break the window or unlock the door with a small jim.
If the situation isn't dangerous It is recommended to seek help from friends or family members before you attempt to unlock your vehicle on your own. This is because DIY methods can cause damage to the door, trigger security systems or cause the warranty to be void. It's also important to note that certain methods may not work on newer cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
Consider purchasing a spare car key to stop this from occurring again. These can be cheap for a simple metal key or costly for a high-end fob. They can help you save a great deal of stress in the end! You can also put them in a location that is easily accessible, such as your purse or wallet.
2. Call a locksmith
You're bound to put your keys in your car at one time or another. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to realize that your keys are missing after the door has closed.
To avoid this happening, you should always keep your spare key in a safe place at work, home, or your gym bag. Many people buy a keychain can be attached to their wallet or purse to protect themselves in the event of losing their keys. This way, you'll have a spare key on hand in a hurry and you won't have to fret about the potential embarrassment of having to call for assistance on the road or a break-in to your personal vehicle.
If you don't own an extra set of keys, it's recommended that you call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the lock, and will even create new keys on-site. They can also provide tips on how to avoid being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're a member of AAA it's an easy decision; they will send you a locksmith quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. The majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services can get you back into your vehicle quickly, but may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are many DIY options for opening a car without the key like a shoelace, wire hanger or a curved wedge. However, these techniques are risky and time-consuming and are more likely to break the lock or damage your window. Be calm and only employ these tricks as a last option. Call 911 immediately if you have pets or children in your vehicle or if you're stuck on an expressway. You can seek help from the police or they can find a towing company.
3. Contact a towing company
The next step is calling the towing company. A lot of these companies can unlock your car's doors without damaging it. If you have roadside assistance make sure that the number is set in your phone or you are aware of it to be able to call them quickly. They may even offer to come and assist you for no cost. You can also call non-emergency police and tell them about the issue. They will give you advice for getting into your car and will dispatch someone to assist if required.
cheap spare car keys 's never fun to be locked out of your vehicle especially when you're in a hazardous area. Unknown roads or places at night can be hazardous so it is important to be aware of your surroundings prior to asking for assistance. If you're not sure how to unlock your car, it is essential to examine all the windows and doors. It could be that you've left a window partially open, which may give access.
You could also try to break into your car with tools like a slim Jim. This is not recommended as it can damage the locks of your vehicle. It is important to note that most insurance policies will not cover the repair costs therefore, you must be aware before using any type of 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. You can keep it in your wallet or purse or buy a magnetic key holder and stick it to the underside of your car. Some people keep a spare car key with an individual from the family or a trusted friend so they can retrieve it if necessary.
You can also reach out to your local dealer to find out if they are able to help. Most dealers will be able to provide you with an emergency key so you can get back into your vehicle. They will probably require proof of ownership as well as other personal details so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep a spare in a safe place. This will reduce the chance that you'll get locked out. Keep the spare key in your purse, wallet or one of the magnetic boxes can be tucked away in the underside of your car. You could also leave one with a family member or friend who might be able to assist you in a moment of need. You may also want to consider having your vehicle identification number, or VIN, written on a piece of paper in the glove box to be able to quickly call the owner of the car on the phone if you're locked out of the vehicle.
If you don't have a spare keys, you can call roadside assistance. Moody says that certain firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a few hours. Others, such as AAA will send a locksmith right away. The cost of roadside services will differ based on the membership level you have and your coverage plan.
There are several other ways to open your car without calling for roadside assistance, such as using an inflatable wedge or a bobby pin. However, these tactics can cause damage to your door and should only be used as a last resort.
Only call emergency services if there is an immediate threat if you can't unlock your vehicle. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, are stuck on a busy highway, or are in a dangerous area, then call emergency services. It is recommended to avoid calling the police and try other ways 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 make sure. If not, you will need pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside service.