How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your vehicle and realize that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and helpless.
If you're lucky, a family member or friend has an additional key that could allow access to your vehicle. If you don't have an extra key, you might have to contact an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Contact a family member or friend
Sometimes we rush to get somewhere and accidentally shut the car's door without thinking. Sometimes, we are distracted. For instance, if we're on the phone to someone or listening to radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car is no enjoyable experience. Especially when you have no spare key! It is a stressful time, but there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to call a friend or family member. This will give them a heads-up that you are in trouble and they might be able bring an extra key. If not, they'll at least be able to help you with other tools that can be used to open the car. This can include items like a doorstop wire coat hanger, or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is hazardous such as when an elderly person, a child, or anyone's safety is in danger. They can send an emergency crew to your location who will either use a small jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation is not hazardous, it is best to wait until someone else can help you unlock your vehicle. This is due to the fact that DIY methods could cause damage to the door and security systems, as well as void the warranty. It's also important to know that some of these methods may not work with the latest models due to their special locking mechanisms.
Consider buying an extra car key to prevent this from occurring again. These can be inexpensive for a basic metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. They can save you a great deal of stress in the end! You can also put them in a place that is easy to reach, like your wallet or purse.
2. Call a locksmith
It's a fact that you are likely to lock your keys inside your car at some moment. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to find out that keys are missing after closing the door.
In order to avoid this situation it is recommended to keep your spare key in a secure place at work, home or in your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain they attach to their purses or wallets in the event that they lose their keys. This way, you'll have a spare key at your desk in a snap and don't have to worry about embarrassment if you end up calling for assistance on the road or breaking into your own vehicle.
If you don't have a spare key, the best thing to do is to contact a locksmith for help. A professional will be able open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and even create new keys right on the spot. They will also be able provide suggestions on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If spare keys near me are 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 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 several DIY options to open your car without a key for example, a shoelace, wire hanger or a curved wedge. These methods are risky, time-consuming, and more likely to damage your window or break the lock. It is important to stay calm and use these tricks only as an option last resort. If you have children or pets in your vehicle, or are stuck on the side of a highway, you must immediately dial 911. get a spare car key made can get help from the police, or they can arrange for a towing company.
3. Call a towing service
The next step is to contact the towing company. Many of these services are able to unlock your car without damaging the door lock. If you have roadside assistance make sure that the number is programmed in your phone or you are aware of it so that you can contact them easily. You might be offered assistance for free. Alternatively, you can also call the non-emergency police line and tell them your issue. They will give you advice 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 dangerous environment. Unknown roads or places at night can be risky and you must be aware of your surroundings prior to asking for assistance. Examine all doors and windows if unsure how to unlock your vehicle. It could be that you have left a window slightly open, which may give you access.
Another option is to try and get into your car with tools such as a slim jim. This is not recommended as it could cause damage to your car's locks. It is also important to remember that the majority of insurance policies do not cover the cost of these repairs Therefore, you should be cautious when making use of any kind of device to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep an extra car key in your purse or wallet. You can keep it in your purse or wallet or purchase a magnetic keys holder and stick it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member to save them if they need to.
You can also call your local dealer to see if they can help you out. Many dealers will provide you with temporary keys so that you can return to your vehicle. Be prepared for proof of ownership as well as other personal information.
4. Call AAA
As driver, you should do your part to reduce the chance that you will be locked out of your vehicle by keeping an extra key in a safe location. Place a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of the magnetic boxes that can be hidden in the underside of your car. You can also leave a spare with a friend who lives near by or an individual from your family who might be able to help you in a pinch. You could also write your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in the glove compartment to quickly call the owner of the vehicle should you are locked out.
If you do not have a spare key or a spare key, you can contact roadside assistance. Some locksmiths specialize in unlocking cars and will send an expert to your location within an hour or less, according to Moody. Other companies, like AAA will dispatch a locksmith immediately. The cost of a roadside assistance will differ based on the level of membership you have and your coverage plan.
There are a few other methods to open your car without requesting assistance at the roadside, such as using an inflatable wedge or a Bobby pin. However, these methods can damage your door and should be used only as an emergency.
Only call emergency services in the event of immediate threat if you can't unlock your vehicle. This includes if there are pets or children in the vehicle, you're stuck in a traffic jam or your vehicle is in a hazardous place. It is recommended to avoid using the police and try other methods of getting back to your vehicle. If you're a part of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage it will likely cover your costs, but be sure to check the conditions of your policy to be sure. If not, you will be required pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside service.