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. It's a sinking feeling that makes you feel panicked and overwhelmed.
If you're fortunate you, one of your family members or friends may have an additional key that could allow you access to the vehicle. If not, you might require an locksmith or towing service for assistance.
1. Contact a family member or a friend
It is possible to close the car door in error when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Other times it happens when we're distracted, like when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brain just doesn't quite focus. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car isn't fun. Particularly if you do not have a spare key! It can be a stressful situation, but there are ways to gain access.
Call your family member or friend. This will alert them that you are in trouble and they might be able to bring an extra key. If not, they will at a minimum be able to help you out with some other tools that can be used to open the car. You can make use of items such as a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, like the case of an elderly person or child trapped in the house on a hot day or if a person's physical safety is at risk and you need to immediately call 911. They can dispatch an emergency team to your location who will either use a small jim to unlock the door or break the window.
Unless the situation is dangerous and you're in danger, it's better to seek assistance from family members or friends before attempting to unlock your car. DIY methods can cause damage to your door and also activate security systems or void your warranty. It's also important to note that certain methods may not work with newer vehicles due to their special locking mechanisms.
Consider buying a spare car key to prevent this from repeating itself. They can be inexpensive for a basic metal key or expensive for a smart fob. Whatever you choose, they'll help you avoid a lot of stress in the near future! It's also a good idea to keep them in a secure place that is easy to access, such as in your wallet or purse.
2. Contact a locksmith
It is inevitable to put your keys in your car at some point. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to discover that your keys are not there after the door has closed.
To avoid this scenario, keep a spare at home, at work, or in your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain that can be attached to their wallet or purse in case they lose their keys. You will always have a spare key with you and don't have to worry about contacting roadside assistance or breaking into your vehicle.
However, if you don't have an extra key the best thing to do is to contact locksmith assistance. A professional locksmith will be able to open your car without causing damage to the lock. They will even create new keys on-site. They will also be able to offer advice about how to prevent getting locked out of your car in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA it's an easy decision; they will send you a locksmith promptly and at a reasonable price. Furthermore, the majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies include roadside assistance. These services can help you get back into your vehicle quickly, but may cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY options for opening a car without the key, such as a shoelace, wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. These techniques are dangerous, time-consuming, and more likely to harm your window or break the lock. It is important to remain calm and only employ these methods as a last option. Call 911 immediately if you have pets or children in your car or you are stuck on the highway. The police will be able to assist you, or can contact a towing company for you.
3. Contact a towing company
The next step is to call a towing company. spare key cost of these services can open your car's door without causing damage. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies ensure that the number is in your phone or that you know it in order to easily contact them. You may be offered free assistance. Alternatively, you can also contact the non-emergency police line and tell them the issue. They will give you advice on how to get in your car and will send someone to help if necessary.
Locked out of your vehicle is never a good idea, particularly when you're stuck in an unsafe environment. You must always look around the surroundings before calling for assistance, especially if you are in a remote location or on a busy road at night. If you are unsure about how to unlock your vehicle, it's essential to examine all the doors and windows. It is possible that you left a small window slightly open. This may let you gain access.
Another alternative is to hack into your car with tools such as a slim jim. This is not recommended as it could damage the locks on your car. It is also important to remember that most insurance policies will not cover the repair costs Therefore, you should be careful before making use of any kind of tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep spare car key fob in your purse or wallet. It can be kept in a purse or wallet or purchase an auto key holder with a magnetic box and put it on the bottom of your vehicle. Some people keep a spare car key with someone in the family or a trusted friend so they can be able to retrieve it should they need to.
You can also contact your local dealer to find out if they are able to assist. Many dealers will provide you with temporary keys to enable you to return to your car. Be prepared to be asked for proof of ownership aswell as other personal information.
4. Call AAA
As an owner, you can do your part to reduce the likelihood that you will get locked out of your vehicle by keeping an extra key in a safe place. Place a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of the magnetic boxes that can be hidden on the underside of your car. You could leave a spare to a close friend or family member who might be able to assist you in a hurry. You might also think about having your vehicle's identification number, or VIN, written on a piece of paper inside the glove box to be able to quickly get the vehicle's owner on the phone when you are locked out of your car.
You can contact roadside assistance for assistance if 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 couple of hours. Other companies, like AAA, will dispatch a locksmith immediately. The cost of roadside services will vary based on your membership level and the coverage plan.
There are other ways to open your car without calling roadside assistance, for instance using an inflatable wedge or a Bobby pin. However, these methods can harm your door and should only be used as a last resort.
Always call emergency services if there is an immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. This is especially true if there are children or pets inside the vehicle, you are stuck in a traffic jam, or your vehicle is in a hazardous area. The police typically unlock a vehicle for no cost but it's recommended to not do this and instead try another way to get back into the car. You may be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Check spare car key cutting to make sure. If not, you'll be required pay for the locksmith or roadside service.