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 makes you feel in a state of panic and helpless.
If you're fortunate, someone in your family or a friend will have an extra key that can give you access to the vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you may need to contact an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Contact a family or friend member
Sometimes we are in a rush to get somewhere and accidentally close the car door without thinking. Sometimes, it happens because we're distracted. For instance, if we're on the phone to someone else or listening to the radio. It's not fun to be locked out of your car. Especially when you have no spare key! It can be a stressful experience however the good news is that there are efficient ways to gain access.
The first step is to call an acquaintance or family member. This will let them know that you're in trouble and they might even bring an extra car key. If not however, they'll be able to help you with other tools that will allow you to open your vehicle. This can include items like a doorstop coat hanger wire or even shoelaces.
Contact 911 immediately if the situation is dangerous, such as if an elderly person, child, or anyone's safety is at risk. They can dispatch an emergency team to your location, who can either use a slim jim to unlock the door or break the window.
If the situation isn't risky It is better to seek assistance from family or friends before attempting to unlock your own vehicle. DIY methods can damage the door and also activate security systems or void your warranty. It's also important to note that certain methods may not work with the latest models due to their specific locking mechanisms.
To avoid this happening in the future take into consideration purchasing a spare key for your vehicle. They can be affordable for a basic metal key or costly for a sophisticated fob. Either way, they will help you avoid a lot of stress in the near future! You can also keep them in a location where they are easy to reach, like your purse or wallet.
2. Call a locksmith
You're bound to lock your keys inside your car at some time or another. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to find out that your keys are missing after the door has closed.
To avoid this, keep a spare at home, at work or in your bag for exercise. Many people purchase a keychain is attached to their purses or wallets in the event that they lose their keys. This way, you will have the spare key on the go and you won't have to fret about the potential embarrassment of calling for assistance on the road or breaking into your own vehicle.
If you don't have a spare key, the best thing to do is to contact a locksmith for help. A professional will be able open your vehicle without causing damage to the lock and even create new keys right on the spot. They'll also be able to offer tips on how to avoid getting locked out of your car in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA it's 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 provide roadside assistance. These services will be able to get you into your car quickly, but they may cost more than an experienced locksmith.
There are a variety of DIY options for opening a car without the key, such as a shoelace, a wire hanger, or a curved wedge. These techniques are risky, time-consuming, and more likely to damage your window or break the lock. It is important to remain at peace and use these techniques as a last resort. If you have children or pets in your vehicle, or are stuck on the side of a highway, it's important to call 911 immediately. You can get help from the police or can organize a towing service.
3. Call a towing service
The next step is to call a towing company. A majority of these companies are able to open your car without damaging the door lock. If you are a roadside assistance customer, ensure that the number is programmed into your phone or you are aware of it to be able to reach them easily. They may even offer to assist you for no cost. You can also call non-emergency police and tell them about your issue. You can get tips on how to get into your vehicle and they'll send someone if needed.
It's not fun to be locked out of your vehicle particularly if you're in a dangerous environment. You must always look around the surroundings before calling for assistance particularly in an unfamiliar place or on a busy road at night. Make sure you check all windows and doors if you're not sure how to unlock your car. It could be that you have left a window partially open, which may give you access.
You could also try to break into your car with tools like a slim Jim. This is not recommended since it can damage the locks on your car. It is important to note that most insurance policies don't cover the cost of these repairs Therefore, you should be cautious when using any type of device to gain access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to stop this from occurring is to keep a spare key handy. You can either keep it in your wallet or purse or purchase a magnetic keys holder and then attach it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people keep a spare car key with an individual from the family or a trusted friend to retrieve it if necessary.
You can also contact your local dealer to see whether they can help you out. Many dealers will provide you with an interim key so that you can get back into your car. They may need to see proof of ownership along with other personal information 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 car by keeping a spare key in a safe place. Keep the spare key in your purse, wallet or in one of the magnetic containers that you can hide in the underside of your car. You could also give a spare to someone who lives near by or a family member who might be able to help out in the event of a crisis. You may also want to think about having your vehicle's identification number, also known as VIN written on a piece paper in the glove compartment so that you can quickly get the vehicle's owner on the phone when you are locked out of your car.
You can call roadside help if you don't own an extra. Some companies specialize in unlocking cars and will send an expert to your location within an hour or so, says Moody. Certain companies, like AAA will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of a roadside service will depend on the level of membership you have as well as your insurance plan.
There are several other methods to open your car without calling assistance at the roadside, such as using an inflatable wedge or Bobby pin. These techniques can damage the door and should only be used as a last option.
If lost spare key to car to unlock your vehicle You should always call for emergency services only in the event that there is in immediate danger. This includes if there are children or pets inside the vehicle, you're stuck in a traffic jam or your vehicle is in a dangerous place. The police will typically unlock a car for free however, it is recommended to not do this and instead try another way to get back into the vehicle. If you are a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance insurance, this will probably cover your costs, but make sure you read the terms of your policy to be sure. If not, you will be required pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside assistance.