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 a variety of options to choose from, including calling a roadside assistance provider (such as GM's OnStar), or leaving a spare car key with family members or friends.

You can also prevent lockouts by establishing routines, such as checking your pockets before leaving your vehicle and finding the right place to store your keys.

Evaluate the Situation

Examine the situation if you are locked out of your car. Make sure to check the weather and the time of day to ensure your safety and there aren't any other issues.

You might have a few alternatives based on the circumstances. If you have an extra key, think about asking a friend or family member to carry it over for you. In addition you can use modern key finders that let you track your keys with a mobile app which makes it easier for you to find keys in the case of an emergency lockout.

If you do not have a spare key or if it is too late to ask someone for help, you might need to call for professional assistance. The most important thing to consider is your safety as well as the safety of any pets or children who are also locked inside the car. Do not use force or break the door to open the car.

Try to find another way into the trunk or car. You can create gaps by threading a shoestring or an inflatable wedge through the lock. This will allow you to extend your arm through the gap. Depending on the model of your vehicle you may also be in a position to open the trunk with an screwdriver.

You may also inquire with your roadside assistance provider to see if they provide solutions for locking keys inside the car. Although these services may be expensive however, they are more efficient than attempting to make your own tools or forcing your way in. These services are less likely to cause damage to your vehicle.

It's also important to note that DIY car unlocking can cause physical damage to the car or the security system. It is also illegal to alter a car lock if you don't have the proper credentials. In some cases, this can even void your warranty. The risks of not seeking help from a professional should be evaluated against the costs.

Need Help?

It's easy to forget your keys in the car, only to then realize when you return. This situation can result from being uninformed and putting your keys out of your purse or pocket as you exit the car, or even having faulty locks. Instead of panicking you, take a moment to consider your options and decide the best option.

The first thing you should do is to check every door in your vehicle. You can still open a door if it is locked with a wire hanger or shoelace (though it may take some time and several attempts to get these makeshift tools to work).

The next step is to call for assistance. Roadside assistance services like AAA can be a lifesaver in getting out of a car that is locked, Moody says. They are available 24/7, and they'll dispatch a professional to your location as soon as it is possible. Just be aware that it might take half an hour or more for someone to arrive.

In addition to roadside assistance, you can also seek out a local auto locksmith to assist with a locked out car. A skilled professional will be able to unlock your car without damaging it, and they can even make you an additional key in the event of need. Some automakers have smartphone apps which you can use to unlock your car if you forget the keys. Check with the manufacturer of your vehicle to determine if such an app is available for your model.

It's also worth contacting the towing companies in your area to inquire about their lockout service. While they usually specialize in recovery and towing, some have the equipment and experience to unlock vehicles as well.

You could also contact a friend or family member who has access to the vehicle. Be sure to request a spare key. Some communities have non-profit organizations or community support services who can help in situations like an auto lockout. These organizations can be reached for free or at a small cost.

Stay calm

Keep calm when locked out of your vehicle. Frustration can make you forget your perspective however, panicking can make the situation even worse. Inhaling deeply and trying to maintain a calm mind will allow you to think clearly and find the best solution for your particular situation.

Once you've regained your composure After regaining your composure, you should look at the situation to determine if there are any easy ways to gain access to your vehicle. It is not uncommon for drivers to think they are completely locked out of their car but then realize that they had left the trunk or a window unlocked while getting ready to leave. A quick tour around the vehicle is the best way to check for issues.

It is time to seek assistance after assessing the situation. This is the most responsible and safest option, since it guarantees that an expert with the appropriate tools will arrive soon. Many roadside assistance companies have websites or Locked My Keys in my van apps that connect you to locksmiths in your area who are able to handle car lockout situations safely and effectively.

If you do opt to go the DIY route, be very careful not to use methods that could cause damage to your vehicle. There are a variety of techniques and hacks you can find online but the majority are not safe or effective for modern vehicles. The majority of these tricks and hacks can cause serious damage to the security system of your vehicle, so it's best to leave them to the professionals.

When your car lockout problem is resolved, you must think about taking precautions. A spare key that you keep with a trusted family member, or using technology like key lockout service finders can be helpful in avoiding an eventual lockout. Regular maintenance and routine checks on your vehicle can also decrease the likelihood that you'll find yourself in a lockout situation. Use these suggestions to avoid the annoyance of a vehicle locking out and drive away confident that you've handled the situation properly.

Take Preventive Measures

You can lessen 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 making use of technology can help prevent car lockouts.

If you own an extra item, keep it in a spot that is easily accessible. You'll have access to your vehicle should the need arises.

Before calling for help it is recommended to check the trunks and doors to ensure that your keys aren't locked inside. It is also recommended to inform your trusted family member or friend of the situation so that they will be able to watch your situation while you wait for help. This is a precautionary measure and could aid you in staying calm when waiting for help.

In many instances, people get locked out of their vehicles because they forget or misplace their keys. To avoid this issue you can create a routine. Repetition a short phrase, or chant, that consists of everything you'll have to carry each time you're getting ready to leave your vehicle. If you do this, you'll be less likely to forget your keys, especially if you're in a rush or distracted.

Another cause of car locks is trying to gain entry without appropriate tools. The coat hanger trick as well as the shoelace method are common methods that could damage your vehicle. If you find yourself in a crisis situation for instance, when a pet or child is trapped in a room the vehicle, removing a window could be essential to ensure their safety.

In the majority of cases, being locked out of the vehicle isn't an emergency that cannot be dealt with with a few simple steps. You can avoid the frustration and stress that can result from this situation by assessing your surroundings and staying calm. Making preventive steps, having a spare key at the go, and using technology to your advantage can all assist you in dealing with a car lockout quickly and efficiently.