How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your car and realize that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that can make you feel panicked and helpless.
If you're lucky, one of your family members or friends may have an additional key that could allow access to your vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you may need to call 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, we're distracted. For instance, when we're on the phone to someone or listening to radio. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car is no fun. It's even more stressful when you don't have an extra key. It is a stressful time but there are ways to gain access.
Call your family member or a friend. This will inform them that you're in trouble, and they may bring an extra car key. If not, they will at a minimum be able to help you with other tools that can be used to open the car. You can use things like an iron coat hanger or shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening, like the case of an elderly person or child locked inside on a hot day or if someone's physical safety is at risk it is recommended to call 911 immediately. spare car key replacement cost can dial 911 and they will send an emergency crew to your home to break the window or open the door with a small jim.
If the situation isn't dangerous and you're in danger, it's best to wait for help from family members or friends before attempting to unlock your vehicle on your own. This is due to the fact that DIY methods can cause damage to the door and trigger security systems, or cause the warranty to be void. It is important to know that these methods may not work with the latest cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from happening again take into consideration purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. They can be inexpensive for a basic metal key or costly for a sophisticated fob. They can save you lots of stress in the long run! It's recommended to keep them in a secure location that is accessible, such as in your wallet or purse.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
It's a fact that you're likely to lock your keys in your car at some time. If you were in a hurry or distracted, it's an embarrassing and frustrating moment when you realize the door has been shut and your keys are nowhere to be found.
In order to avoid this scenario ensure that you keep an extra key in a safe location at work, home or in your gym bag. Many people also purchase a key chain which is attached to their wallets or purses in the event that they lose their keys. You'll always have an extra key in your bag and will not have to worry about calling roadside assistance or breaking into your vehicle.
If you don't have a spare, it is recommended that you call an expert locksmith. A professional will be able to open your vehicle without damaging the lock, and they can even make keys for you on the spot. They'll also be able provide advice about how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If you are an active member of AAA, this is a no-brainer; they can send you a locksmith promptly and at a reasonable price. The majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services will be able to get you in your car in a short time, but they may cost more than a professional locksmith.
There are a variety of DIY options to open your car without a key like a shoelace, wire hanger or a curved wedge. However, these techniques can be risky and time-consuming and are more likely to damage the lock or damage your window. It is important to stay calm and use these tricks only as a last option. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, or are stuck on the side of a highway, it's important to call 911 immediately. The police can assist you, or they can call a towing service to assist you.
3. Contact a towing company
Next, you need to contact a towing company. Many of these services can open your car without damaging the door lock. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies ensure that the number is in your phone or that you are aware of it so that you can quickly contact them. You might be offered free assistance. Alternatively, you can also contact the non-emergency police line and explain your issue. They can provide you with tips on how to get in your vehicle and send an emergency assistance person if needed.
Getting locked out of your vehicle is never a good idea, particularly when you're trapped in a dangerous location. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be hazardous, so you should always examine your surroundings prior to calling for help. Make sure you check all doors and windows if not sure how to unlock your vehicle. It could be that you've left a window slightly open, which could allow you access.
Another alternative is to get into your car with tools such as a slim jim. This is not recommended as it could damage the locks of your vehicle. Be aware that the majority of insurance policies will not cover these repairs. Therefore, you should be careful when making use of any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your wallet or purse. You can store it in a wallet or purse, or you can buy an auto key holder with a magnetic box and place it on the bottom of your vehicle. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member to help them in the event of need.
You can also call your local dealer to see whether they can help you out. The majority of dealers will give you an interim key so that you can be back in your vehicle. They will probably ask you to show proof of ownership as well as other personal information so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep an extra in a secure place. This makes it less likely you'll be locked out. Place a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of the magnetic boxes that can be tucked away in the underside of your car. You can also leave a spare in the hands of a friend who lives near by or a family member who might be able to assist you out in the event of a crisis. You may also want to consider having your vehicle identification number, or VIN, written on a piece of paper in the glove compartment to help you quickly call the owner of the car to call you if you are locked out of the car.
You can call roadside help if you don't own an extra. Moody states that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Certain companies, like AAA will dispatch a locksmith right away. The cost of roadside services will vary depending on the membership level you have and your coverage plan.
You could also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without having to call roadside assistance. These methods can cause damage to the door and should only be used as a last resort.
Always call emergency services if there is an immediate danger if you cannot unlock your vehicle. If you have children or pets in the vehicle, you are on a busy highway, or in a risky zone, you should call emergency services. The police are usually able to unlock a vehicle for no cost, but it's best to avoid doing so and instead find a different way to get back into the car. You could be covered by your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Check your policy terms to confirm. If not, the locksmith or roadside assistance is your responsibility.