How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your car and realize that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and helpless.
If you're lucky, a friend or family member will have a spare key to allow access to your car. If not, you'll need to call an emergency locksmith or towing service for assistance.
1. Call a friend or family member
We can close the car door accidentally when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Sometimes it happens because we are distracted. For example, when we're on the phone to someone or listening to radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car isn't enjoyable experience. Especially when you have no spare key! It can be incredibly stressful however the good thing is that there are some effective ways to regain access.
The first step is to contact a friend or family member. This will let them know that you're in trouble and they may bring a spare car key. If they can't, at least they will be able to assist you by using other tools to unlock your vehicle. This can include items like a doorstop, wire coat hanger, or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening like the case of an elderly person or a child locked inside on a hot day or if someone's physical safety is at risk it is recommended to immediately dial 911. They can dispatch an emergency team to your home, who will either use a small jim to unlock the door or break the window.
If the situation isn't dangerous, it's best to wait for help from family members or friends before attempting to unlock your car. This is due to the fact that DIY methods can cause damage to the door and trigger security systems, or cause the warranty to be void. It's important to note that these methods may not work with the latest vehicles due to their specific locking mechanisms.
Consider buying a spare car key to avoid this from repeating itself. They can be affordable for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. In either case, they'll save you a lot of stress in the future! It's recommended to store them in a secure location that is easy to access, such as in your purse or wallet.
2. Call for a locksmith
You're bound to put your keys in your car at some time or another. It can be extremely frustrating and embarrassing to find out that your keys are not there after closing the door.
To avoid this ensure you have a spare key at your home, at work, or in your bag for your gym. Many people also purchase a keychain which is attached to their wallets or purses in case they forget their keys. You will always have a spare key with you and will not have to be concerned about calling roadside assistance, or breaking into your vehicle.
If you don't have a spare key the best thing you can do is call a locksmith for help. A professional locksmith will be able open your car without causing damage to the lock and can even create new keys right on the spot. They can also give you suggestions on how to avoid being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA you can have locksmith services delivered to you swiftly and at a low cost. Additionally, most comprehensive auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance. These services can help you get back into your vehicle quickly, but may cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are numerous DIY alternatives to unlock your car without a key. These include using a shoelace or a wire hook. However, these methods aren't always safe and efficient and are more likely to damage the lock or harm your window. It is important to remain at peace and use these tricks as a last resort. If you have pets or children in your vehicle, or you are on the side of a highway, it's important to immediately dial 911. The police will be able to help you, or they may call a towing service to assist you.
3. Call a towing service
Next, you need to call a towing service. A majority of these companies can open your car without damaging the door lock. If you have roadside assistance make sure the number is programmed into your phone or you know it to be able to contact them easily. spare car key fob may be offered assistance for free. Alternatively, you can also contact the police non-emergency line and explain the issue. They can give you tips on how to get into your car and will send an emergency assistance person if needed.
Being locked out of your vehicle is never fun, especially when you're trapped in an unsafe environment. Always check the surrounding area before calling for help, especially if you are in a foreign location or on a busy road at night. If you're not sure how to unlock your car, it is crucial to look at all the doors and windows. It is possible that you left a small window slightly open. This can sometimes let you gain access.
You can also try to break into your car using tools such as a slim Jim. This is not recommended as it could cause damage to the locks of your vehicle. It is important to know that the majority of insurance policies will not cover these repairs. Therefore, you should be cautious when using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to avoid this from occurring is to keep a spare key handy. It can be kept in a purse or wallet, or you can buy an electronic key holder for your car box and put it on the underside of your vehicle. Some people leave a spare car key with a family member or trusted friend to be able to retrieve it should they need to.
You can also contact your local dealer and ask whether they can help you out. Most dealers will provide you with an interim key so that you can return to your car. Be prepared for proof of ownership as well as other personal information.
4. Call AAA
As an owner, you can take steps to make it less likely that you will get locked out of your vehicle by keeping a spare key in a safe place. Keep a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of those magnetic boxes that can be tucked away in the underside of your vehicle. You could also leave one with a nearby family member or friend who might be able to assist you in a moment of need. You might also think about having your vehicle's identification number, also known as VIN written on a piece of paper in the glove box to be able to quickly get the vehicle's owner on the phone when you're locked out of the car.
It is possible to call roadside assistance in the event that you don't have an extra. Moody says that certain firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a few hours. Other companies, like AAA, will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of a roadside assistance will vary depending on the level of membership you have and your coverage plan.
There are other ways to open your car without calling roadside assistance, such as using an inflatable wedge or a Bobby pin. These techniques can damage the door and should be used only as a last resort.
Always call emergency services in the event of immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, are stuck on a busy road or are in a hazardous area, then call emergency services. It is best to avoid calling the police and instead try alternative methods of getting to your car. If you're a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance insurance it will likely cover your expenses, but make sure to make sure you read the conditions of your policy to confirm. If not, you'll be required pay for the locksmith or roadside service.