How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your vehicle and realize you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that makes you feel panicked and helpless.
If you're lucky that one of your family members or friends has an additional key that can allow you access to the vehicle. If not, you may require an emergency locksmith or towing service for assistance.
1. Contact a family member, or friend
We may shut the car door accidentally when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Sometimes it happens because we are distracted. For instance, if we're talking on the phone with someone or listening to radio. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car is no enjoyable experience. It's even more stressful when you don't have a spare key. It can be a stressful experience however the good thing is that there are some effective methods to regain access.
Call your family member or a friend. spare car key cost will inform them that you're in trouble and they could even bring an extra car key. If they aren't, at least they will be able to assist by using other tools to unlock your vehicle. This can include items like a doorstop, coat hanger wire or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if you believe the situation is dangerous such as when an elderly person, child, or anyone's safety is in danger. You can dial 911 and they will send an emergency team to your location to break the window or open the door using a thin jim.
Unless the situation is dangerous, it's better to seek assistance from friends or family members before attempting to unlock your car. This is because DIY methods can cause damage to the door and trigger security systems, or cause the warranty to be void. It's also important to know that certain methods may not work with newer vehicles due to their special locking mechanisms.
You should consider purchasing an extra car key to prevent this from occurring again. They can be affordable for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll help you avoid a lot of stress in the future! You can also keep them in a location where they are easily accessible, such as your wallet or purse.
2. Contact a locksmith
You're bound to lock your keys in your car at one moment. Whether you were in a rush or just distracted, it's an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize that the door has shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
To avoid this, keep a spare at home, your workplace or in your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain they attach to their wallet or purse in case they lose their keys. You'll always have an extra key in your bag and will not have to be concerned about calling roadside assistance, or attempting to break into your vehicle.
However, if you don't have a spare key, the best thing to do is to contact a locksmith for help. A professional locksmith will be able open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and they can even make keys for you immediately. They'll also be able to provide advice about how to prevent getting locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're a member of AAA, this is an obvious option; they can send you a locksmith quickly and at a reasonable price. The majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies also include 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 alternatives to open cars without keys, such as a shoelace, a wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. These techniques are risky, time-consuming and more likely to damage your window or damage the lock. It is essential to remain calm and use these tricks only as a last option. Call 911 immediately if you have pets or children in your car or you're stuck on an expressway. You can seek assistance from the police or they can organize a towing service.
3. Call a towing service
The next step is to call an towing service. A lot of these companies can open your car's door without causing damage. If you are a roadside assistance customer, ensure that the number is programmed in your phone or you know that it is able to contact them easily. You might be offered assistance for free. Alternately, you can contact the police non-emergency line and let them know about your issue. They will give you advice on how to get into your car and will send someone to help if necessary.
Being locked out of your car is never a good idea, particularly when you're stuck in a dangerous location. You must always look around the surroundings before calling for help particularly in an unfamiliar place or on a road that is busy at night. If you aren't sure how to unlock your vehicle, it's essential to examine all the windows and doors. You may have left a small window slightly open. This could let you gain access.
Another option is to try and break into your car using tools like a slim jim. But, this isn't advised and could cause damage to the locks on your car. It is important to know that most insurance policies will not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, you should be cautious before using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your wallet or purse. You can store it in a purse or wallet, or you can buy a magnetic car key holder box and put it on the bottom of your car. Some people keep a spare car key with an individual from the family or a trusted friends so that they can retrieve it if necessary.
You can also contact your local dealer to see whether they can help you out. Most dealers will be able to give you an interim key so that you can be back in your vehicle. Be prepared for proof of ownership aswell in other personal information.
4. Call AAA
Keep a spare in a safe location. This will reduce the chance that you'll lock yourself out. Keep a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of the magnetic boxes that you can hide on the underside of your vehicle. You could also leave one with a nearby friend or family member who may be able help you in a hurry. You could also think about writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in your glove compartment so you can quickly contact the owner of the vehicle if you get locked out.
If you don't have a spare key or a spare key, you can contact roadside assistance. Some locksmiths specialize in unlocking cars and will send a technician to your location within a half hour or so, according to Moody. Others, like AAA will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of roadside services will differ based on your membership level and the coverage plan.
There are several other methods to open your car without calling roadside assistance, for instance using an inflatable wedge or bobby pin. However, these methods can harm your door and should only be used as a last resort.
If you're unable to unlock your car it is recommended to call for emergency services only in the event that there is a immediate risk. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, you are on a busy road or in a risky area, then call emergency services. It is best to avoid contacting the police and look for alternative methods of getting to your car. You could be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Examine the terms of your policy to ensure. If not, you will need pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside service.