How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your vehicle and realize that you've locked your keys inside. You might be feeling helpless and panicked.
If you're lucky that someone in your family or a friend will have an additional key that could give you access to the vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you may need to call an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Contact a family member or a friend
We can close the car door accidentally when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Sometimes it happens because we're distracted. For example, when we're on the phone to someone or listening to radio. It's not fun to be locked out of your vehicle. It's even more stressful when you don't have a spare key. It can be a stressful situation, but there are ways to gain access.
Contact your family member or friend. This will inform them that you're in trouble, and they could even bring an extra car key. If not, they will at the very least help you with other tools that could be used to unlock the car. You can make use of items such as an iron coat hanger or shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is threatening, such as if an elderly person, a child or any other person's security is in danger. You can call 911 and they'll send an emergency team to your location to break the window or open the door with a small jim.
If the situation isn't hazardous, it is best to wait until a professional can help you unlock your vehicle. DIY methods may cause damage to the door and also activate security systems or even void your warranty. It is important to know that these methods may not work with the latest vehicles due to their specific locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from occurring in the future take into consideration purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. These can be cheap for a simple key made of metal or costly for a sophisticated fob. They can save you lots of stress in the end! lost my car key and have no spare can also keep them in a place where they are easy to reach, like your wallet or purse.
2. Call for a locksmith
You're likely to lock your keys inside your car at some point. Whether you were in a hurry or simply distracted, it's an embarrassing and embarrassing experience when you realize that the door has been shut and your keys aren't to be found.
To avoid this situation, keep a spare at home, at work, or in your bag for exercise. Many people also purchase a keychain that is attached to their wallet or purse to ensure they never lose their keys. You will always have an extra key on hand and will not have to be concerned about calling roadside assistance, or attempting to break into your vehicle.
If you don't have a spare, it is 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'll also be able to provide suggestions on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If you are an active member of AAA this is a no-brainer; they can provide you with a locksmith fast and at a cost that is reasonable. In addition, most comprehensive auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance. These services can be used to get you into your car quickly, but they could cost more than a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY alternatives to open your car without a key for example, a shoelace, wire hanger, or a curved wedge. These methods are risky, time-consuming and are more likely to damage your window or break the lock. It is important to remain calm and only use these techniques as a last resort. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, or if you're stuck on the side of the highway, you should immediately call 911. You can get help from the police or they can organize a towing service.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to contact a towing service. A majority of these companies can open your car without damaging the door lock. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies ensure that the number is in your phone or that you are aware of it so that you can easily contact them. They might even offer to come and help you out for no cost. You can also call the non-emergency police line and tell them your problem. They can give you tips for getting into your car and will send someone to assist if required.
It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your car, especially if you are in a danger zone. Always check the surrounding area before calling for assistance, especially if you are in a remote location or on a busy highway at night. Make sure you check all doors and windows if unsure how to unlock your car. It could be that you have left a window slightly open, which can sometimes allow you access.
You could also try to gain entry into your vehicle using tools such as a slim Jim. But, this isn't recommended as it could damage the locks on your car. It is also important to note that the majority of insurance policies do not cover the repair costs therefore, you must be careful before making use of any device to gain access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to prevent this from occurring is to keep a spare key handy. You can store it in a purse or wallet or buy an auto key holder with a magnetic box and put it on the bottom of your car. Some people even leave a spare key with an amiable family member so that they can rescue them if needed.
You can also contact your local dealer to find out if they are able to assist. The majority of dealers will be able to give you an emergency key so you can return to your vehicle. They will probably require proof of ownership along with other personal details so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
As driver, you should take steps to make it less likely to be locked out of your car by keeping your spare keys in a secure place. Stash a spare in your purse, wallet or one of those magnetic boxes that can be tucked away in the underside of your car. You could also give a spare to a friend who lives close by or an individual from your family who might be able to assist you out in a pinch. You might also consider writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in your glove compartment so that you can quickly contact the owner of the vehicle should you lock yourself out.
It is possible to call roadside assistance in the event that you don't have a spare. Moody states that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Others, like AAA, will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of a roadside service will differ based on the membership level you have and your insurance plan.
You can also employ an inflatable or bobby-pin wedge to open your vehicle without having to call roadside assistance. These tactics can damage the door and should only be used as a last option.
If you are unable to unlock your car You should always call for emergency services only if it is in immediate danger. This includes if you have pets or children in the vehicle, you are stuck in a traffic jam, or your vehicle is in a dangerous place. It is recommended 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, this will probably cover your expenses, but make sure to be sure to check the conditions of your policy to confirm. If not, you'll be required pay for the locksmith or roadside service.