How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your vehicle only to realize that you've locked your keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that makes you feel panicked and insecure.
If you're lucky, a friend or family member will have a spare key that can allow access to your vehicle. If you don't have a spare key, you may need to contact an auto locksmith or towing service.
1. Contact a family or friend member
We may close the car door in error when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Other times it happens when we're distracted, like when we're talking to someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brain just doesn't completely focus. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car is no fun. Particularly when you don't have a spare key! It can be incredibly stressful however the good thing is that there are effective methods to regain access.
The first step is to call an acquaintance or family member. This will inform them that you're in trouble and they might even bring an extra car key. If not, they will at a minimum be able to assist you with other tools that can be used to unlock the car. You can make use of items such as a wire coat hanger or shoelaces.
If the situation is life-threatening like the case of an elderly person or child trapped in a hot room or if someone's physical safety is at risk it is recommended to call 911 immediately. They can send an emergency crew to your location who will either use a slim jim to open the door or break the window.
If the situation is not hazardous, it is best to wait until someone else can help you unlock your vehicle. This is due to the fact that DIY methods could cause damage to the door and trigger security systems, or cause the warranty to be void. It is important to remember that these methods might not be compatible with newer cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
To avoid this occurring in the future you should consider buying a spare key for your vehicle. These can be inexpensive for an ordinary metal key or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. They will save you lots of stress in the long run! You can also keep them in a spot where they are easy to reach, like your purse or wallet.
2. Contact a locksmith
It's a given that you are likely to lock your keys inside your car at some time. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to realize that your keys are not there when the door is shut.
In order to avoid this scenario ensure that you keep a spare key in a safe location at work, home or in your gym bag. Many people purchase a keychain that can be attached to their purses or wallets in case they lose their keys. You'll always have an extra key in your bag and will not have to be concerned about contacting roadside assistance or breaking into your car.
If you don't own an extra set of keys, it's recommended that you call an expert locksmith. A professional will be able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the lock, and they can even make you new keys on the spot. https://boesen-junker.thoughtlanes.net/10-startups-thatll-change-the-how-do-i-get-a-spare-car-key-industry-for-the-better will also offer suggestions on how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can get a locksmith sent to you quickly and at an affordable price. Furthermore, the majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies include roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your vehicle in a hurry however, they may cost more than hiring a professional locksmith.
There are several DIY alternatives to open your car without a key like a shoelace, wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. These options are dangerous, time-consuming, and more likely to harm your window or break the lock. It is crucial to remain calm and use these tricks only as a last option. Contact 911 immediately if you have children or pets in your vehicle, or if you are stuck on a highway. You can seek assistance from the police or they can organize a towing service.
3. Contact a towing company
The next step is calling the towing company. A majority of these companies are able to unlock your car without damaging the door lock. If you have an assistance plan for roadside emergencies, make sure that the number is in your phone or that you know it so that you can easily reach them. You may be offered assistance for free. You can also contact non-emergency police and tell them about your problem. You can receive tips on how to get into your car, and they will send someone if needed.
Getting locked out of your vehicle is never a good idea, particularly when you're stuck in an unsafe environment. You must always look around the surroundings before calling for help particularly if you're in a foreign location or on a road that is busy at night. Check all the windows and doors if you're uncertain about what to do to unlock your vehicle. It could be that you've left a window partially open, which could allow access.
You can also try to break into your vehicle using tools such as a slim Jim. But, this isn't recommended and can damage the locks on your car. It is important to note that most insurance policies do not cover the costs of these repairs Therefore, you should be aware before making use of any tool to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your wallet or purse. You can keep it in a purse or wallet or buy an electronic key holder for your car box and place it on the bottom of your car. Some people even leave a spare key with an amiable family member so that they can help them in the event of need.
You can also contact your local dealer to find out whether they can assist. The majority of dealers can provide you with temporary keys so that you can return to your car. Be prepared to be asked for evidence of ownership as well in other personal information.
4. Call AAA
Keep a spare in a safe place. This makes it less likely you'll get locked out. Place a spare key in your purse, wallet or one of the magnetic boxes that you can hide on the underside of your vehicle. https://notes.io/w3EGM can also leave one with a friend or family member who may be able help you in a hurry. You could also think about writing your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and storing it in your glove compartment so you can quickly contact the owner of the vehicle in case you lock yourself out.
You can call roadside help for assistance if you don't have an extra. Moody states that certain companies are experts in unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a couple of hours. Others, like AAA will send a locksmith right away. The cost of roadside assistance will vary depending on your membership level and the coverage plan.
You can also employ a bobby-pin or inflatable wedge to open your car without contacting roadside assistance. However, these tactics can damage your door and should be used only as a last resort.
Only call emergency services in the event of immediate danger if you cannot unlock your vehicle. This is especially true if there are children or pets inside the vehicle, you are stuck in a traffic jam, or your vehicle is in a dangerous place. The police typically unlock a vehicle for free however, it is best to avoid doing so and instead try another way to get back into the vehicle. If you're a part of an auto club or have roadside assistance insurance, this will probably cover your expenses, but make sure to be sure to check the conditions of your policy to confirm. If not, you will need pay for the locksmith or roadside assistance.