How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your vehicle and realize you've locked the keys inside. You might feel insecure and overwhelmed.
If you're fortunate that someone in your family or a friend has an additional 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 a towing service.
1. Contact a family or friend member
We can close the car door accidentally when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Sometimes, it happens when we are distracted, like when we're talking with someone on the phone or listening to a radio show and our brain doesn't quite focus. It's never fun to be locked out of your car. Especially when you have no spare key! spare key replacement can be a stressful situation, but there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to contact an acquaintance or family member. This will inform them that you're in trouble and they could even bring a spare car key. If not however, they'll be able to assist by using other tools to unlock your car. You can use items like a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening like if there is an elderly person or a child trapped in the house on a hot day, or if someone's physical safety is in danger and you need to immediately dial 911. You can call 911 and they'll send a crew to your location to either break the window or unlock the door using a thin jim.
If the situation isn't risky, it is recommended to wait until someone else can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. DIY methods can cause damage to your door and activate security systems, or void your warranty. It is important to remember that these methods might not be compatible with newer cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
You should consider purchasing a spare car key to avoid this from repeating itself. They can be affordable for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a smart key fob. They will save you much stress in the long term! It's recommended to keep them in a secure place that is easy to access, such as in your purse or wallet.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
You're likely to lock your keys inside your car at one point. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to discover that keys are missing when the door is shut.
To avoid this situation ensure that you keep your spare key in a safe place at work, home or in your gym bag. Many people also purchase a key chain that is attached to their wallets or purses to ensure they never 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.
If you don't own an extra set of keys, it's recommended to contact a professional locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and even create keys for you right on the spot. They can also give you advice on how to prevent being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If spare key replacement are a member of AAA, this is an easy decision; they will send you a locksmith quickly and at a reasonable price. Most comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services can help you get back into your vehicle quickly however, they may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.
There are many DIY options for opening cars without keys for example, a shoelace, a wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. These options are risky, time-consuming and are more likely to damage your window or break the lock. It is crucial to remain at peace and use these techniques only as an option last option. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, or if you're stuck on the side of the highway, you must immediately dial 911. The police will be able help you, or they can contact a towing company for you.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is to contact the towing company. Many of these services can unlock your car's doors without damaging it. If you have an emergency roadside assistance plan, make sure that the number is in your phone or you know it so that you can easily reach them. You could be eligible for assistance for free. You can also call non-emergency police to inform them about your problem. They can provide you with tips for getting into your car and will send someone to assist if required.
Getting locked out of your vehicle is never fun, especially when you're trapped in a hazardous location. Inconvenient roads or locations at night can be dangerous and you must examine your surroundings prior to asking for assistance. Check all the doors and windows if you are unsure how to unlock your car. It may be that you've left a window partially open, which may give you access.
You can also attempt to break into your car with tools like a slim Jim. However, this isn't recommended as it could damage the locks on your car. It is also important to note that most insurance policies do not cover the cost of these repairs Therefore, you should be cautious when using any type of tool to gain entry into your vehicle.
One of the best ways to avoid this from occurring is to keep a spare key handy. You can either keep it in your purse or wallet or buy a magnetic key holder and then attach it to the underside of your car. Some people even leave spare keys with an amiable family member so that they can save them if they need to.
You can also call your local dealer to see whether they can help out. Most dealers can provide you with temporary keys to enable you to return to your car. Be prepared for proof of ownership as well in other personal information.
4. Call AAA
Keep your spare in a secure location. This makes it less likely you'll be locked out. Keep the spare key in your wallet, purse, or one of the magnetic boxes you can put on the underside your vehicle. You could also leave a spare in the hands of a friend who lives near by or an individual from your family who might be able to assist you out in a pinch. You may also want to consider having your vehicle identification number, also known as VIN, written on a piece of paper in the glove box to help you quickly contact the owner of your vehicle to call you if you're locked out of your vehicle.
If you do not have a spare key and you're in need of roadside assistance. Some locksmiths specialize in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a half hour or so, says Moody. Other companies, like AAA will send a locksmith right away. The cost of a roadside assistance will depend on the membership level you have and the coverage plan.
There are a few alternatives to unlock your car without calling for roadside assistance, for instance using an inflatable wedge or a Bobby pin. These tactics can damage the door and should be used only as a last option.
If you can't unlock your vehicle You should always call emergency services only in the event that there is in immediate danger. 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 risky area. It is recommended to avoid using the police and instead try other ways of getting back into your car. You may be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Review the policy's terms to confirm. If not, you will be required pay for the locksmith or roadside service.