How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You get out of your vehicle and realize you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking feeling that can leave you feeling panicked and overwhelmed.
If you're lucky you'll find a family or friend member will have a spare key that can give access to your vehicle. If not, you might need to call an locksmith or towing service to get help.
1. Contact a family member, or friend
We may shut the car door accidentally when we are in a hurry to get somewhere. Sometimes, it happens because we're distracted. For example, when we're on the phone with someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car isn't fun. Especially when you have no spare key! It can be incredibly stressful, but the good news is that there are some effective ways to regain access.
Call your family member or friend. This will inform them that you're in trouble, and they could even bring an extra car key. If not, they will at least be able to assist you with other tools that can be used to unlock the car. You can use things like a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, such as if there is an elderly person or a child trapped in the house on a hot day or if someone's physical safety is at risk and you need to call 911 immediately. You can call 911 and they will dispatch an emergency team to your location to either break the window or open the door with a small jim.
If the situation isn't dangerous, it is best to wait until a professional can help you unlock your vehicle. This is because DIY methods could cause damage to the door and security systems, as well as cause the warranty to be void. It's also important to note that some of these methods may not work with the latest models, as they have special locking mechanisms.
Consider buying a spare car key to avoid this from happening again. They can be inexpensive for a basic metal key or costly for a high-end fob. Whatever replacing car keys without spare choose, they'll help you avoid a lot of stress in the future! You can also store them in a spot that is easy to reach, like your purse or wallet.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
You're bound to lock your keys inside your car at one time or another. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to discover that your keys are missing after closing the door.
To avoid this situation, you should always keep a spare key in a safe place at work, home, or your gym bag. Many people are also able to purchase a keychain that they can attach to their wallet or purse in case they forget their keys. You will always have a spare key with you and don't have to worry about calling roadside assistance or attempting to break into your vehicle.
If you don't have an extra set of keys, it's recommended that you call a professional locksmith. A professional locksmith can open your car without causing damage to the lock. They will even create new keys on the spot. They can also give you suggestions on how to prevent being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you're a member of AAA, this is an obvious option; they can 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 however, they may cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY options to open your car without a key for example, a shoelace, wire hanger or a curved wedge. However, these options are risky and time-consuming and are more likely to break the lock or harm your window. It is important to stay at peace and use these techniques only as the last resort. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, or are stuck on the side of the highway, it's important to immediately dial 911. The police will be able help you, or they may call a towing service to assist you.
3. Call a towing company
The next step is to contact a towing service. Many of these services are able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the door lock. If you have roadside assistance make sure the number is set in your phone or you know it so that you can reach them easily. You could be eligible for free assistance. Alternately, you can call the non-emergency police line and tell them the issue. You can also get advice on how to get into your vehicle and they'll send someone if needed.
It's never fun to be locked out of your vehicle especially when you're in a dangerous environment. Always check the surroundings before calling for assistance, especially if you are in a remote location or on a road that is busy at night. Check all the doors and windows if you are uncertain about what to do to unlock your vehicle. It could be that you have left a window slightly open, which can sometimes give you access.
Another alternative is to get into your car with tools such as a slim jim. This is not recommended since it can damage the locks on your car. It is important to know that the majority of insurance policies will not cover these repairs. Therefore, it is important to be careful when using any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to avoid this from happening is to keep a spare key handy. You can keep it in your wallet or purse or purchase a magnetic key holder and then attach it to the underside of your car. Some people even leave spare keys with a trusted family member so that they can save them if they need to.
You can also call your local dealer and ask whether they can help out. Most dealers will be able to provide you with a temporary key so that you can get back into your vehicle. They will probably ask you to show proof of ownership along with other personal information, so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep an extra in a secure location. This makes it less likely you'll get locked out. Keep a spare key in your purse, wallet, or one of the magnetic containers that you can hide on the underside of your vehicle. You could leave a spare to a close friend or family member who could be able to help you in a pinch. You may also want to think about having your vehicle's 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 when you're locked out of your vehicle.
If you do not have a spare key, you can call roadside assistance. Moody states that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Some companies, like AAA will send an immediate locksmith. The cost of roadside assistance will vary depending on your membership level and coverage plan.
You can also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without contacting roadside assistance. However, these techniques could cause damage to your door and should only be used as an emergency.
If you can't unlock your vehicle it is recommended to call emergency services only if it is in immediate danger. This includes if you have children or pets inside the vehicle, you're stuck on a busy road, or your vehicle is in a hazardous place. It is recommended to avoid contacting the police and instead try alternative methods of getting into your car. If you're a part of an auto club or have roadside assistance insurance it will likely cover the cost, but you should check the terms of your policy to ensure. If not, the roadside assistance or locksmith will be your responsibility.