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. You might be feeling helpless and panicked.
If you're lucky that a family member or friend has an additional key that could allow access to your vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you may need to call an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Contact a family or friend member
It is possible to close the car door in error when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Sometimes, it happens because we are distracted. For instance, when we're on the phone to someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car isn't enjoyable experience. Particularly when you don't have a spare key! It can be stressful but there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to contact a friend or family member. This will inform them that you're in trouble and they might even bring an extra car key. If not, they'll at the very least assist you with other tools that could be used to open the car. This could include items like a doorstop, coat hanger wire or even shoelaces.
Contact 911 immediately if the situation is threatening, such as if an elderly person, a child or anyone else's safety is in danger. They can send an emergency team to your home, who will either use a slim jim to open the door or break the window.
Unless the situation is dangerous, it's better to seek assistance from family or friends before trying to unlock your vehicle on your own. This is due to the fact that DIY methods can cause damage to the door, trigger security systems or end the warranty. It is important to know that these methods may not be compatible with newer vehicles due to their specific locking mechanisms.
You should consider purchasing a spare car key to stop this from occurring again. These can be inexpensive for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a smart key fob. They will save you lots of stress in the end! You can also keep them in a spot that is easily accessible, such as your wallet or purse.
2. Call a locksmith
You're bound to lock your keys in your car at one time or another. Whether you were in a hurry or just distracted, it can be a frustrating and embarrassing moment when you realize that the door is shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
In order to avoid this situation, you should always keep your spare key in a safe location at work, home, or your gym bag. Many people buy a keychain they attach to their wallet or purse in case they lose their keys. You will always have an extra key in your bag and don't have to be concerned about calling roadside assistance, or breaking into your car.
However, if you don't have a spare key the best thing to do is call a locksmith for help. A professional locksmith can open your car without damaging the lock and could even create new keys on-site. They will also be able to offer advice about how to prevent being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can get a locksmith sent to you swiftly and at an affordable price. Most comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services can help you get back in your vehicle in a hurry however, they may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are several DIY options to open cars without keys like a shoelace, a wire hanger or a curved wedge. These techniques 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 methods as a last option. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, or you are on the side of a highway, it's important to immediately dial 911. You can seek assistance from the police or they can organize a towing service.
3. Call a towing service
Next, you need to call a towing service. A majority of these services will open your car's door without damaging it. If you are a roadside assistance customer, ensure that the number is programmed in your phone or you know it so that you can call them quickly. You might be offered free assistance. Alternately, you can contact the police non-emergency line and tell them your problem. They will give you advice for getting into your car and will dispatch someone to assist if required.
It's not a good feeling to be locked out of your vehicle, especially if you are in a dangerous environment. Unknown roads or places at night can be dangerous and you must be aware of your surroundings prior to asking for help. If you aren't sure how to unlock your vehicle, it's essential to examine all the doors and windows. It may be that you've left a window open, which may allow you access.
Another alternative is to hack into your car with tools such as a slim jim. This is not recommended since it could cause damage to your car's locks. It is important to note that the majority of insurance policies do not cover the repair costs Therefore, you should be aware before using any type of device to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your wallet or purse. You can store it in a purse or wallet, or you can buy an auto key holder with a magnetic box and place it on the bottom of your car. Some people keep a spare car key with someone in the family or a trusted friend to retrieve it if necessary.
You can also contact your local dealer to inquire if they are able to assist. Most dealers can give you temporary keys to allow you to return to your car. They may need to see proof of ownership along with other personal details and you should be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
As a driver, you can do your part to make it less likely that you will get locked out of your vehicle by keeping a spare key in a secure place. Stash a spare in your wallet, purse or one of the magnetic boxes that you can hide on the underside of your car. You can also leave an extra to a close family member or friend who could be able to help you in a pinch. You may also want to consider having your vehicle identification number, or VIN, written on a piece paper in the glove box so that you can quickly contact the owner of your vehicle on the phone if you're locked out of your car.
You can contact roadside assistance for assistance if you don't have a spare. Some locksmiths specialize in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a half hour or less, according to Moody. Other companies, like AAA, will dispatch a locksmith immediately. The cost of a roadside service will vary depending on the level of membership you have as well as your coverage plan.
There are make a spare car key near me to unlock your car without calling for roadside assistance, for instance using an inflatable wedge or Bobby pin. These tactics can damage the door and should be used only as a last option.
If you're unable to unlock your car You should always call for emergency services only if it is a immediate risk. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, you are on a busy road or are in a hazardous area, then call emergency services. It is recommended to avoid using the police and try alternative methods of getting into your car. You could be covered under your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Examine the terms of your policy to make sure. If not, you will have pay for the locksmith or roadside assistance.