How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your car only to discover that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that can make you feel panicked and overwhelmed.
If you're lucky you, a family member or friend may have an additional key that can allow you access to the vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you might need to contact an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Call a friend or family member
Sometimes we rush to get somewhere and accidentally shut the car door without thinking. Sometimes, it happens because we're distracted. For example, when we're talking on the phone with someone else or listening to the radio. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car isn't fun. It's even more frustrating when you don't have a spare key. It is a stressful time however, there are ways to gain access.
The first step is to call your family or friend. This will alert them that you're in trouble and they may be able bring a spare key. If not, they will at least be able to help you out with some other tools that can be used to open the car. You can make use of items such as a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is dangerous such as when an elderly person, child or any other person's security is in danger. They can dispatch an emergency team to your location, who can either use a slim jim to unlock the door or break the window.
If the situation isn't dangerous and you're in danger, it's recommended to seek help from family members or friends before trying to unlock your own vehicle. DIY methods can cause damage to the door and also activate security systems or void your warranty. It's important to note that these methods might not be compatible with modern vehicles due to their specific locking mechanisms.
You should consider purchasing an extra car key to stop this from occurring again. These can be inexpensive for a basic metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. They will save you much stress in the long run! You can also keep them in a place where they are easily accessible, such as your purse or wallet.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
You're likely to put your keys in your car at some moment. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to discover that keys are missing when the door is shut.
To avoid this scenario ensure that you keep a spare key in a safe place at home, work or in your gym bag. Many people also purchase a keychain that is attached to their wallet or purse in the event that they lose their keys. You will always have an extra key in your bag and won't need to be concerned about contacting 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 will be able to open your vehicle without causing damage to the lock and even create you new keys right on the spot. They will also be able provide tips on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If you are an active member of AAA, this is an easy decision; they will send you a locksmith quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. The most comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services can be used to get you into your car quickly, but they could cost more than a professional locksmith.
There are a variety of DIY options for opening a car without the key, such as a shoelace, a wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. These techniques are risky, time-consuming, and more likely to harm your window or break the lock. 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 if you're stuck on the side of a highway, you should immediately call 911. You can get help from the police, or they can find a towing company.
3. Contact a towing company
The next step is to contact an towing service. A majority of these services will open your car's door without harming it. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies ensure that the number is set into your phone or you know it so that you can easily reach them. You may be offered assistance for free. You can also call the non-emergency police line and let them know about your issue. You can receive tips on how to enter your car, and they will call someone in case of need.
Locked out of your vehicle is never a good idea, particularly when you are stranded in an unsafe environment. You should always check the surrounding area before calling for assistance particularly if you're in an unfamiliar place or on a road that is busy at night. If you aren't sure how to unlock your vehicle, it's crucial to look at all the doors and windows. It could be that you have left a window slightly open, which can sometimes allow access.
You can also attempt to gain entry into your vehicle with tools like a slim Jim. This is not recommended as it could damage your car's locks. It is important to know that the majority of insurance policies do not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, you must be cautious before making use of any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
spare car key cost of the best ways to prevent this from occurring is to keep a spare key in your pocket. You can store it in a purse or wallet, or you can buy a magnetic car key holder box and put it on the underside of your car. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted family member to save them if they need to.
You can also contact your local dealer and see whether they can help you out. Most dealers will be able to provide you with an interim key so that you can be back in your vehicle. They will probably ask you to show proof of ownership and some other personal information, so be prepared for that.
4. Call AAA
Keep a spare in a safe place. This will reduce the chance that you'll lock yourself out. Keep a spare key in your purse, wallet or one of those magnetic boxes that you can hide on the underside of your vehicle. You could leave a spare with a nearby family member or friend who may be able help you in a pinch. You may also think about having your vehicle's identification number, also known as VIN written on a piece paper inside the glove box to help you quickly get the vehicle's owner on the phone if you are locked out of the car.
It is possible to call roadside assistance for assistance if you don't have a spare. Moody says that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Others, such as AAA, will dispatch a locksmith immediately. The cost of a roadside assistance will depend on the membership level you have as well as your insurance plan.
There are other ways to open your car without calling roadside assistance, for instance using an inflatable wedge or a bobby pin. However, these methods can harm your door and should be used only as a last resort.
If you can't unlock your vehicle, you should always contact emergency services only if it is in immediate danger. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, are stuck on a busy highway, or are in a hazardous area, you should contact emergency services. The police are usually able to unlock a vehicle for no cost, but it's recommended not to do so and instead, try a different method of getting back into the car. If you're a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage it will likely cover the cost, but you should be sure to check the terms of your policy to ensure. If not, you'll need to pay out of pocket for the locksmith or roadside assistance.