How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You leave your vehicle only to realize that you've locked the keys inside. You might feel overwhelmed and scared.
If you're lucky you'll find a family or friend member will have a spare key to allow access to your car. If you don't have an extra key, you might have to contact an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Call a family member or friend
Sometimes we are rushing to get somewhere and then shut the car door without thinking. Sometimes, it happens when we are distracted, like when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brains don't seem to be able to focus. Whatever the reason, getting locked out of your car is no enjoyable experience. It's even worse when you don't have an extra key. It can be a stressful experience however the good thing is that there are some effective ways to regain access.
The first step is to call your family or friend. This will let them know that you're in trouble, and they could even bring an extra
car spare key cost key. If not, they will at least be able to help you with other tools that can be used to open the car. This can include items like a doorstop wire coat hanger or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if you believe the situation is threatening such as when an elderly person, a child or anyone else's safety is in danger. You can dial 911 and they will dispatch a crew to your location to break the window or unlock the door using a slim jim.
If the situation is not risky, it is recommended to wait until a professional can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. DIY methods could cause damage to your door and also activate security systems or invalidate your warranty. It's also important to note that some of these methods might not work with the latest models because they are equipped with special locking mechanisms.
Consider purchasing a spare car key to prevent this from happening again. They can be affordable for a basic metal key or costly for a sophisticated fob. Whatever you choose, they'll help you avoid a lot of stress in the near future! You can also put them in a spot where they are easy to reach, like your wallet or purse.
2. Call a locksmith
You're likely to lock your keys in your car at some time or another. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to discover that your keys are missing after the door has closed.
To avoid this ensure you have a spare key at home, at work or in your bag for exercise. Many people are also able to purchase a keychain that is attached to their wallets or purses to ensure they never lose their keys. You'll always have an extra key on hand and will not have to be concerned about contacting roadside assistance or breaking into your vehicle.
If you don't own an extra key, it's recommended to contact an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able open your car without causing damage to the lock and even create keys for you on the spot. They can also give you advice on how to prevent being locked out of your vehicle in the future.
If you are a member of AAA it's an obvious option; they can send you a locksmith quickly and at a reasonable
cost for spare car key. In addition, most comprehensive auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance. These services can be used to get you into your vehicle quickly, however they may cost more than an experienced locksmith.
There are a variety of DIY options for opening your car without a key, such as a shoelace, a wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. These options are dangerous, time-consuming, and are more likely to damage your window or break the lock. It is important to stay in a calm state and use these methods only as a last resort. If you have pets or children in your vehicle, or you are on the side of a highway, you should call 911 immediately. You can seek assistance from the police, or they can arrange for a towing company.
3. Call a towing service
Next, you need to contact a towing company. A lot of these companies can open your car without damaging the door lock. If you have a roadside assistance plan ensure that the number is set into your phone or that you are aware of it so that you can easily reach them. They may even offer to assist you for no cost. You can also contact non-emergency police and tell them about the issue. You can receive tips on how to enter your car, and they will send someone if needed.
It's not fun to be locked out of your car especially when you're in a dangerous environment. Always check the surrounding area before calling for help particularly in a foreign location or on a road that is busy at night. If you're not sure how to unlock your car, it is important to check all of the doors and windows. You might have left a window that was slightly open. This can sometimes allow you to gain access.
Another option is to try and hack into your car with tools like a slim jim. This is not recommended since it could cause damage to your car's locks. It is important to know that most insurance policies will not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, it is important to be cautious before using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.
One of the best ways to avoid this from occurring is to keep a
spare key for car cost key handy. It can be kept in a purse or wallet or buy a magnetic car key holder box and place it on the underside of your vehicle. Some people even leave a spare key with a trusted family member to save them if they need to.
You can also call your local dealer and see whether they can help you out. The majority of dealers can provide you with temporary keys so that you can return to your car. Be prepared to be asked for proof of ownership as well as other personal information.
4. Call AAA
Keep an extra in a secure location. This makes it less likely you'll be Locked Out Of Car No Spare Key (
Rasch-Ewing-4.Federatedjournals.Com) out. Stash a spare in your purse, wallet or one of those magnetic boxes that can be hidden on the underside of your vehicle. You can also leave a spare with an acquaintance who lives near by or a family member who might be able to help out in the event of a crisis. You may also want to think about having your vehicle's identification number, also known as VIN, written on a piece of paper in the glove box to be able to quickly contact the owner of your vehicle on the phone if you're locked out of your vehicle.
You can contact roadside assistance for assistance if you don't have a spare. Some locksmiths specialize in unlocking vehicles and will send a technician to your location within a half hour or so, says Moody. Some companies, like AAA will dispatch a locksmith right away. The cost of a roadside service will differ based on the level of membership you have and your insurance plan.
You can also employ a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to open your car without calling roadside assistance. However, these tactics can cause damage to your door and should be used only as an emergency.
If you can't unlock your vehicle, you should always call emergency assistance only if there is a immediate risk. This is especially true if there are pets or children in the vehicle, you are stuck on a busy road, or your vehicle is in a hazardous location. It is recommended to avoid contacting the police and try other ways of getting back to your vehicle. If you're a part of an auto club or have roadside assistance coverage, this will probably cover your expenses, but make sure to check the conditions of your policy to ensure. If not the roadside assistance or locksmith service is your responsibility.