How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your vehicle only to realize that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that can make you feel in a state of panic and overwhelmed.
If you're fortunate that someone in your family or a friend will have an additional key that can give you access to the vehicle. If you don't have an extra key, you might need to call an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Call a friend or family member
It is possible to shut the car door accidentally when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Sometimes, it happens when we are distracted, like when we're talking to someone on the phone or listening to a radio show and our brain just doesn't completely focus. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car is no enjoyable experience. Particularly if you do not have a spare key! It can be stressful however, there are ways to gain access.
Call a family member or friend. This will alert them that you're in trouble. They may be able to bring an extra key. If not, they'll at a minimum be able to assist you with other tools that could be used to unlock the car. You can use items like an iron coat hanger or shoelaces.
If duplicate car key near me is life-threatening like when there is an elderly person or a child stuck inside on a hot day, or if someone's physical safety is at risk it is recommended to immediately dial 911. You can dial 911 and they will send an emergency crew to your location to break the window or unlock the door using a thin jim.
If the situation isn't dangerous, it's better to seek assistance from family or friends before you attempt to unlock your vehicle on your own. DIY methods could cause damage to the door and activate security systems, or even void your warranty. It's also important to note that certain methods may not work on newer cars due to their specific locking mechanisms.
Consider purchasing a spare car key to prevent this from repeating itself. They can be affordable for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a smart key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll help you avoid a lot of stress in the future! It's recommended to keep them in a secure place that is easy to access, such as in your purse or wallet.
2. Contact for a locksmith
It's a fact of life that you're bound to lock your keys in your car at some time. If you were in a rush or just distracted, it's an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize that the door has been shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
To avoid this Keep a spare at your home, at work, or in your bag for exercise. Many people purchase a keychain that they attach to their purse or wallet to protect themselves in the event of losing their keys. This way, you will have a spare key on your desk in a snap and you won't have to fret about the embarrassment that could result from having to call for assistance at the roadside or stealing your own vehicle.
If you don't own a spare, it is best to call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to open your car without damaging the lock, and even create keys for you right on the spot. They'll also be able to provide suggestions on how to avoid getting locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're an active member of AAA this is an easy decision; they will send you a locksmith promptly and at a reasonable cost. The majority of comprehensive insurance policies for automobiles also provide roadside assistance. These services can help you get back into your vehicle quickly but they can cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY options for opening a car without the key for example, a shoelace, a wire hanger or a curved wedge. These options are dangerous, time-consuming, and are more likely to damage your window or break the lock. It is important to stay in a calm state and use these methods only as the last resort. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, or if you're stuck on the side of a highway, you must immediately call 911. The police can assist you, or they can contact a towing company for you.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to call a towing service. A lot of these companies can unlock your car's doors without damaging it. If you have a roadside assistance plan, make sure that the phone number is set into your phone or that you know it in order to quickly contact them. You might be offered free assistance. You can also call the non-emergency police line and let them know about the issue. They can provide you with tips on how to get in your car and will dispatch someone to help if necessary.
It's never fun to be locked out of your vehicle, especially if you are in a dangerous environment. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be risky, so you should always examine your surroundings prior to calling for assistance. If you aren't sure how to unlock your car, it is essential to examine all the windows and doors. It may be that you've left a window slightly open, which could give you access.
Another option is to try and get into your car with tools such as a slim jim. This is not recommended as it can damage the locks of your vehicle. It is also important to note that most insurance policies will not cover the repair costs Therefore, you should be aware before making use of any device to gain access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to prevent this from happening is to keep a spare key on hand. You can keep it in a purse or wallet or buy an electronic key holder for your car box and put it on the underside of your vehicle. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted friend or 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 can give you temporary keys to allow you to return to your car. They might require proof of ownership along with other personal information, so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
As a driver, you can help make it less likely to lock yourself out of your car by keeping your spare keys in a safe place. Stash a spare in your wallet, purse or one of the magnetic boxes that you can hide in the underside of your car. You could also leave an extra to a close friend or family member who could be able to help you in a pinch. You might also consider having your vehicle identification number, also known as VIN written on a piece paper inside the glove box to help you quickly call the owner of the car to call you if you're locked out of the vehicle.
You can call roadside help in the event that you don't have a spare. Moody says that certain firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Certain companies, such as AAA will send a locksmith immediately. The cost of roadside assistance will vary depending on your membership level and the coverage plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or inflatable wedge to open your car without having to call roadside assistance. However, these methods can cause damage to your door and should be used only as an emergency.
Only call emergency services if there is an immediate threat if you can't unlock your vehicle. This is especially true if there are pets or children in the vehicle, you are stuck in a traffic jam, or your vehicle is in a dangerous place. The police typically unlock a vehicle for free, but it's best to avoid doing so and instead find a different method of getting back in the car. If you're a part of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage it will likely cover your costs, but check the conditions of your policy to confirm. If not, you'll be required to pay for the locksmith or roadside service.