Car Keys Locked in Car? Here's How to Get Back in Without Calling a Locksmith
No one ever wants to be locked out of their car. However, it can happen to the most cautious drivers.
There are several easy ways to get back into your vehicle without having to contact roadside assistance or the dealer. Here are a few of them. You can use your shoelaces, or a coat hanger made of wire.
1. Call 911
Whether it happens while driving to work or on a quick trip to the store or even when you're driving, locking the keys in the car is a common occurrence. This is a common mistake to make, whether because of a simple mistake or the malfunction of locks. Fortunately, it's simple to fix. It's normal to panic in these situations. But, don't let your emotions take over. Stress can lead to reckless actions that could make the situation worse.
Take a deep breath before you make any rash decisions and make sure to check all the doors and windows of your car. If you don't have a spare car key at home or a friend to bring it to you there are other ways to enter your vehicle without causing damage.
Many roadside assistance firms like AAA offers the ability to unlock your car if you've locked your keys inside. They have tools and kits that can assist you in this process, and are available 24/7. However, they may take a long time to arrive, and you'll need to pay a fee, according to your membership level.
You can also use items that you already have, like a shoestring tied in a slip knot and pulled through the door to lift a post lock. Or a wire coathanger through a window frame to open the lock. However, these strategies can sometimes break parts of the door and they're not always efficient.
In the event that you are unable to gain access to your car and you don't have time to wait for a professional, or you're worried about someone getting injured, calling 911 is the best option. A police officer will be dispatched to assist you. In most cases, they'll be able to unlock your vehicle or at the very least request the tow truck and it will be included on your bill. If the vehicle is older, the police may have to change the code to unlock it, which can cost more.
2. Call Roadside Assistance
A car lockout can be a painful, uncomfortable situation that can make you feel helpless. To avoid a car lockout ensure you keep a spare key in your purse or wallet or purse, and put it under the car or give a friend a spare to take home. In the event of a crisis you could also make use of the tool.
If you're stuck in a vehicle the first thing to do is assess the situation to determine whether your keys are locked inside. Take a few deep breaths and then verify whether you can unlock the doors or access them from outside. If not, call roadside assistance.
locked keys car of auto insurance companies include roadside assistance coverage as an optional extra however you could also find it with other service providers such as an auto club or credit card. Such a program typically has professionals who can unlock your car with various strategies and tools. In the case of a modern, keyless system a specialist will be able to reset your car's key fob to return you to your way.
If you don't have such a program you can still contact the police department in your area to get help. This should only be done in the event of an emergency, for instance the case when your pet or children are trapped in the car. It's not the time for you to call 911 because you lost your keys. It is important to note that 911 lines are intended for emergencies and if you call to report the loss of your key inside the car, you may not be able to speak to an officer in a timely manner and it could take some time before they send an official to your location.
Be sure to inquire about the cost of roadside assistance prior to you make a call. Based on your membership, you may be covered for one free lockout each year or you could be required to pay out of pocket for these services. Find out if your roadside assistance company has locksmiths on their team. This may be a different way to get your keys back.
3. Contact a Locksmith
If you're locked out of your vehicle, it can be a frustrating and unsettling situation, particularly if there is a rush to get somewhere. Even when it appears that all hope is lost, there are still some tried-and-tested ways to get into your car without contacting a professional locksmith.
The first step is to check the other doors of your vehicle to see if they are unlocked. Although it may seem like this is obvious, it's frequently overlooked when people are in a rush.
Another alternative is to ask your friends or family members whether they have a spare key and can allow you into your vehicle. If this isn't possible you can try to find a way to unlock the trunk of your vehicle instead. It's more difficult and you'll have to use a specific tool or trick to get around the locking mechanism. You'll have to research the process for your specific make and model.
If none of these solutions are working, it's time to seek out an experienced locksmith. A reputable NYC automotive locksmith should be able to help you get back into your car quickly and safely, without damaging the lock. They will have the tools and know-how to break even the most secure locks and provide an alternative key for you in the future.
Assistance providers for roadside emergencies like AAA can also be useful in this instance Be aware that they'll charge for their services. Luckily, most AAA members get one free lockout each year, depending on their membership level.
If you are a member of AAA they will send a locksmith to your location. They can usually return you to your vehicle in less than an hour. They can also help with other roadside issues like tire replacements and fuel delivery. If you do not have an AAA membership, you can call a local locksmith, but it will cost you. Be sure to do your research to find the most suitable locksmith for your requirements.
4. Try a DIY Solution
It can be a scary feeling when you realize you locked your car keys in the car. It is important to be calm, take a look at the situation and decide to do next. It is best to call an expert locksmith prior to trying any do-it-yourself tips that could lead to further damage to your vehicle or an even higher bill.
There are a variety of ways to remove your car keys without having to call an expert. These methods rely on items you probably already have at home. The first step is to ensure that the trunk isn't locked. Some modern cars have special security features that block the trunk opening. Check your owner's manual, or contact Longo Toyota, to see if this feature is available for your vehicle.
Another option is a shoelace. This trick is only available for vehicles with post locks which are the kinds of locks that are straight from the door frame. It's also only effective only if the lock isn't damaged, so it's best to try this on a vehicle that is less likely to be stolen.
The last option is breaking a window, but it's important to do it in a safe way and only when there is an emergency like an animal or child inside the car. Remember that breaking a car window could result in costly replacement of glass.
It's nearly impossible to prevent getting your keys to your car locked in the car however there are ways to minimize the chance of this happening. Keep a spare car key in a safe location or give it to a person you can trust. It is also important to determine whether your roadside assistance plan or auto insurance provides unlocking services as part of the policy. You will save time and money using this method if you ever lock your keys inside the car.