What to Do When You're Locked Out of Your Car
It's a pain to be locked out of your car. But don't panic. There are several options, including calling a roadside service (such as GM's OnStar), or leaving the spare car keys with family or friends.
You can also prevent lockouts by creating routines such as always checking your pockets and establishing a place for keys before exiting your vehicle.
Review the Situation
The first thing you should do when locked out of your car is to examine the situation. Examine the weather and time of day to ensure your safety and there are no other issues.
Based on the situation, you might have some options for getting back in your vehicle. Request someone in your family or a close acquaintance to provide you with an extra key If you have one. Alternatively you can use modern key finders that let you track your keys with a mobile app making it easier for you to find them in the event of a lockout.
If you don't have a spare key or if you are too late to call someone to help, you may require professional assistance. The most important consideration is your safety and that of any pets or children who are also locked inside the vehicle. Don't try to open the door or use aggressive methods that could damage your vehicle.
Try to find another way into the trunk or vehicle. You can create a gap by threading a shoestring or an inflatable wedge through the lock. This allows you to reach your arm through the gap. Depending on the model of your vehicle, you might also be capable of opening the trunk using the help of a screwdriver.
You can also call your roadside assistance company to inquire about services for unlocking keys inside cars. These services are costly, but they're more efficient than improvised tools or putting yourself into. These services are less likely to harm your vehicle.
Additionally, it is important to remember that trying DIY unlocking techniques for your car could cause physical damage to your vehicle's or security systems. It is also illegal to tamper the lock of your car when you don't have the proper credentials. In certain instances it could even invalidate your guarantee. These risks should be considered against the cost of professional assistance.
Call for Help
It's easy to forget your keys in the car and later realize it when you return. Absentmindedness, forgetting the keys in your pocket or purse when you leave the vehicle or even the malfunctioning of locks can all contribute to this frustrating situation. Instead of panicking, take a moment to evaluate your options and choose the best option.
The first thing you must do is to check every door in your car. You can still open a door even if it is not locked by using shoelaces or wire hangers (though it may take a long time and several attempts to get these improvised tools to work).
Next, contact for assistance. Moody states that roadside assistance services such as AAA can be useful in the event of trying to get out of a car that is locked. They are always available and will dispatch an expert as quickly as they are able. Just be aware that it might take a half hour or more for someone to arrive.
You can also call an auto locksmith in your area to help you unlock your car if it is locked out. A skilled professional can unlock your vehicle without damaging it and can make you an additional key in the event of need. Certain automakers have smartphones which can be used to unlock your car when you've lost the keys inside. Contact the car's manufacturer to determine if such an app available for your particular model.
It is also worth contacting local towing companies to inquire about their lockout services. Although they are usually specialized in towing and recovery, some have the tools and know-how to unlock vehicles as well.
Alternatively, you may be connected with a family member or friend who has access to your vehicle. Ask them to bring a spare key. Certain communities have non-profit organizations or community support services who can assist in times like a car lockout. You can contact these organizations for assistance at no cost or for a modest cost.
Stay calm
Keep calm when locked out of your car. Frustration can make you forget your perspective and make the situation worse. Take deep breaths to help you keep your head clear and come up with the solution.
Once you've regained your composure, you should assess the situation to see whether there are any feasible ways to gain access to your car. It is not uncommon for people to think that they are locked out of their car but then realize that they left the trunk or a window unlocked while getting ready to leave. Running a quick loop around the vehicle can be an excellent way to check for such issues.
It is time to seek assistance after having assessed the situation. This is the safest and most responsible option, because it ensures that someone with the proper tools will be on the scene soon. Many roadside assistance companies have websites or apps that can connect you with locksmiths in your area who are able to handle car lockouts efficiently and safely.
Be cautious not to damage your vehicle if you decide to DIY. There are a variety of techniques and hacks are available online, but most of them are not safe or effective for modern cars. A majority of these hacks and tricks can cause major damage to the security system of your car It is recommended to leave them to experts.
After your car lockout issue is resolved, you must consider taking precautions. Keeping a spare key with a trusted family member, or using technology like key finders, can help you avoid the possibility of a lockout in the future. Regular maintenance and regular vehicle checks can also reduce the chance of finding yourself in a lockout situation. By following these tips you can get rid of the hassle and stress of a car lockout, and leave feeling confident that you handled it responsibly.
Take Preventive Measures
You can reduce the risk of locking your keys in your car by following a few simple steps. A spare key on your desk, following a regular routine and using technology can all assist in preventing car lockouts .
If you own an extra, store it in a location where it's easily accessible. You'll have access to your vehicle should the need arises.
You should also test the doors and trunks to make sure that your keys aren't locked inside before calling for assistance. It's also recommended to tell a trusted family member or a friend of the situation, so they can watch you while you wait for assistance. This is a great security measure that will help you remain calm while waiting for help.
Many people are locked out of their cars due to the fact that they've lost or forgotten their keys. One solution to this issue is to create an established routine. Each time you are getting ready to leave your car and you are about to leave, repeat a few words or chant that contains all the things you'll need with you. You'll be less likely to lose your keys if you do this, especially if you're in a hurry or distracted.
Another reason for car lockouts is trying to gain access into the vehicle without proper tools. The coat hanger trick and the shoelace method are both common methods that could damage your vehicle. If you find yourself in a situation that is urgent, such as when a child or pet is trapped in a room an unfinished window, removing it may be essential to ensure their safety.
In the majority of cases, being locked out of your car is not a major emergency and can be resolved by following a few easy steps. By taking a look around and staying calm, as well as reaching out to professionals like Lithonia Towing, you can avoid the stress and frustration that comes with this scenario. Preventive measures and having a spare key on hand, and using technology to your advantage can aid you in resolving an auto lockout quickly and efficiently.