How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your car only to discover that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that makes you feel panicked and helpless.
If you're lucky that someone in your family or a friend will have an additional key that can give you access to the vehicle. If not, you may need to call an locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Contact get spare key made or friend member
Sometimes we are in a rush to get somewhere and then shut the car's door without thinking. Sometimes, it happens because we are distracted. For instance, when we're talking on the phone to someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car is no enjoyable experience. It's even worse when you don't have a spare key. It can be incredibly stressful however the good thing is that there are efficient ways to gain access.
The first step is to contact an acquaintance or family member. This will let them know that you're in trouble, and they could even bring an extra car key. If not, they'll at a minimum be able to help you out with some other tools that could be used to unlock the car. This could include items such as a doorstop, coat hanger wire or even shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, like the case of an elderly person or child locked in a hot room, or if someone's physical safety is in danger, then you should immediately call 911. You can dial 911 and they'll send an emergency crew to your location to break the window or unlock the door with a small jim.
If the situation isn't risky, it's best to wait for help from friends or family members before attempting to unlock your car. DIY methods could damage the door, activate security systems or even void your warranty. It is important to remember that these methods might not be compatible with modern vehicles due to their specific locking mechanisms.
Consider purchasing a spare car key to stop this from repeating itself. These are usually inexpensive for a basic metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll save you lots of stress in the future! It's also a good idea to keep them in a secure place that is easy to access for example, in your purse or wallet.
2. Call for a locksmith
You're bound to put your keys in your car at one point. If you were in a hurry or just distracted, it's an embarrassing and embarrassing experience when you realize the door has shut and your keys aren't to be found.
In order to avoid this happening ensure that you keep a spare key in a safe location at work, home, or your gym bag. Many people also purchase a keychain that they can attach to their purse or wallet 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 attempting to break into your vehicle.
If you don't own an extra key, it's best to call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able open your car without causing damage to the lock and even create you new keys right on the spot. They will also offer suggestions on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If you are an active member of AAA this is an obvious option; they can send you a locksmith promptly and at a cost that is reasonable. In addition, most comprehensive auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance. These services can be used to help you get into your vehicle quickly, however they could cost more than an experienced locksmith.
There are several DIY options for opening your car without a key, such as a shoelace, a 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 crucial to remain in a calm state and use these methods only as the last option. Contact 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your vehicle, or if you are stuck on a highway. The police can assist you, or they may call a towing service to assist you.
3. Contact a towing company
The next step is to call a towing service. Many of these services are able to open your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have roadside assistance, ensure that the number is programmed into your phone or you know that it is able to call them quickly. They may even offer to come and help you out for no cost. You can also contact non-emergency police to inform them about your issue. They can provide you with 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 vehicle, especially if you are in a danger zone. Inconvenient roads or locations at night can be hazardous and you must examine your surroundings prior to asking for help. Examine all doors and windows if not sure what to do to unlock your vehicle. It could be that you have left a window open, which can sometimes allow you access.
Another alternative is to break into your car using tools such as a slim jim. This is not recommended since it can damage the locks of your vehicle. You should also be aware that the majority of insurance policies do not cover repairs to these locks. Therefore, you must be cautious before using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to stop this from occurring is to keep a spare key in your pocket. You can either keep it in your purse or wallet or buy a magnetic key holder and then attach it to the underside of your vehicle. cheap spare car keys leave spare keys with a trusted family member to save them if they need to.
You can also reach out to your local dealer to inquire if they are able to assist. Many dealers will be able to provide you with an interim key so that you can return to your vehicle. They may need to see proof of ownership and some other personal information and you should be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep your spare in a secure location. This will reduce the chance that you'll get locked out. Keep a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of the magnetic boxes you can hide on the underside your vehicle. You could also leave a spare in the hands of a friend who lives near by or a family member who might be able to assist you out in the event of a crisis. You might also consider having your vehicle identification number, or VIN written on a piece of paper in the glove box to be able to quickly get the vehicle's owner on the phone if you are locked out of your car.
You can call roadside help 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 few hours. Certain companies, like AAA, will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of a roadside service will depend on the membership level you have and the insurance plan.
You can also employ an inflatable or bobby-pin wedge to open your car without calling roadside assistance. However, these techniques could damage your door and should be used only as the last resort.
Only call emergency services in the event of immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. This is especially true if there are pets or children inside the vehicle, you are stuck on a busy road or your vehicle is in a hazardous place. The police are usually able to unlock a vehicle for free but it's best to avoid doing so and instead find a different method of getting back in the vehicle. You may be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Review the policy's terms to ensure. If not, the locksmith or roadside assistance is your responsibility.