What to Do When You're Locked Out of Your Car

Being locked out of your car is a pain. But don't panic. There are many options, including calling a roadside service provider (such as GM's OnStar) or leaving the spare car keys with friends or family.

You can also prevent lockouts by developing routines, for example, checking your pockets prior to leaving your vehicle and finding the right place to store your keys.

Evaluate the Situation

Assess the situation when you are locked out of your car. Examine the weather and time of day to ensure your safety and that there aren't any other issues.

Depending on the circumstances, you might have some alternatives to get back into your vehicle. If you have an extra key, think about asking a family or friend member to bring it over for you. Alternatively, many modern key finders let you track your keys using an app on your mobile which makes it easier for you to retrieve keys in the case of a lockout.

If you don't have a spare key, or if it is too late to ask someone to help, you may need to seek professional assistance. The most important consideration is your safety and the safety of any pets or children that are also locked in the vehicle. Don't use force or break the door to open the car.

Find a different way into the trunk or vehicle. Threading a shoestring through the lock or using an inflatable wedge could create a gap between the door and the door frame that you can reach with your arm or tool through. Depending on the vehicle you have you may be capable of opening the trunk with an screwdriver.

You can also contact your roadside assistance provider to find out whether they have solutions for locking keys inside the car. While these services can be expensive, they are generally more efficient than attempting to make your own tools or force your way in. They are less likely to cause any damage to your vehicle.

It's also important to note that DIY car unlocking could cause physical damage to the vehicle or the security system. It's also illegal to modify an auto lock without appropriate credentials, and in some cases, it can even end your warranty. The risks of not seeking help from a professional must be considered in relation to the costs.

Call for Help

It's easy to lose your keys in the car, only to then realize when you return. This situation can be caused by being absentminded and putting your keys out of your pocket or purse as you exit the car, or even defective locks. Instead of panicking, take a moment to consider your options before deciding on the best plan of action.

The first thing you should do is check each door in your car. If the doors are locked you can still open one of them by using wire hanger or a shoelace (though it may take quite a while and many attempts to maneuver these tools that are made to be used as a substitute).

The next step is to call for help. Assistance services for roadside emergencies like AAA can be lifesaver when getting out of a car locked, Moody says. They are on call 24/7and will dispatch an expert to your location as quickly as possible. Be aware that it could take up to 30 minutes or more for someone else to arrive.

You can also contact an auto locksmith in your area to help you unlock your vehicle if it's locked out. A professional will be able unlock your car without damaging the vehicle and will even create an additional key unlock service for you if needed. Certain automakers have smartphone apps which you can use to unlock your car if you lose your keys. Contact the car's manufacturer to see if there is such a program available for your particular model.

Lastly, it's worth contacting local towing companies to inquire about their lockout services. Although they typically specialize in towing and recovery, some have the equipment and expertise to unlock vehicles as well.

Alternately, you might be capable of contacting with a family member or friend who has access to your vehicle. You can ask them to bring a spare key. Some communities also have non-profit organizations or community support services that offer assistance in the event of an auto lockout. You can reach out to these services for assistance at no cost or for a minimal fee.

Stay at peace

Stay calm when you are locked out of your car opening. The stress of being frustrated can affect your judgement and make the situation even worse. Inhaling deeply and trying to keep a clear mind will allow you to think clearly, and come up with a solution that will work for your situation.

After you have regained composure You should evaluate the situation to determine if there are any easy ways to get into your car. It is not uncommon for drivers to think that they are locked out of their vehicle only to discover that they left their trunk or a window open while getting ready to leave. A quick lap around the car is a great way to check for any issues.

After evaluating the situation, it is now time to call for help. This is the most responsible and secure choice, as it ensures that an expert with the appropriate tools will arrive quickly. Many roadside assistance companies have websites or apps that can connect you to locksmiths in your area who are well-equipped to handle car lockouts in a safe manner and effectively.

If you opt to go the DIY method, be cautious not to use techniques that can harm your vehicle. There are many hacks and tricks on the internet but they aren't suitable or safe for modern vehicles. Many of these hacks can cause irreparable or even devastating damage to your vehicle's security system, which is why it is recommended to leave this kind of work to experts.

After your car lockout issue has been resolved, you should consider taking preventive measures. Keeping a spare key with a trusted friend or family member or using technology, such as key finders, can help you avoid an eventual lockout. Regularly scheduled maintenance and checks of your vehicle can also reduce the chance that you'll be locked out. Follow these steps to avoid the annoyance of a vehicle locking itself out, and then drive away with the knowledge that you've done it in a responsible manner.

Take Preventive Measures

You can lessen the risk of locking your keys in your car by following a few easy steps. Having a spare key on the go, following a routine, and using technology can all help prevent car opening service lockouts.

If you have a spare item, keep it in a location that is easy to find. This way, you'll be able to quickly access your vehicle in the event of a need.

It is also advisable to check the doors and trunks to ensure that your keys aren't locked in the trunk prior to calling for help. It's also an excellent idea to tell your trusted family member or friend of the situation, so that they will be able to watch you while you wait for help. This is a security measure, and can also help you to stay calm while waiting for help.

Many people lock themselves out of their cars because they've lost or forgotten their keys. One solution to this problem is to develop routine. Every time you're getting ready to leave your vehicle, repeat a short phrase or chant that includes everything you'll need to bring with you. You'll be less likely to lose your keys if you do this, particularly if you are in rush or distracted.

Another reason for car locks is trying to force entry without the proper tools. The coat hanger trick as well as the shoelace method are both common methods that could damage your vehicle. If you are in an emergency situation like when a child or pet is trapped inside the vehicle, removing a window could be necessary to ensure their safety.

In most cases, getting locked out of the vehicle isn't an emergency that cannot be dealt with in a couple of steps. You can stay clear of the frustration and stress that comes with this situation by assessing your surroundings and staying calm. Preventive measures such as having a spare key at the go, and using technology to your advantage can aid you in resolving an auto lockout quickly and efficiently.