How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle

It is not unusual to lock your keys inside the vehicle. This could be a stressful experience. This is an issue that you can deal with.

You can ensure that you don't get locked out by keeping spare keys in a secure and secure place. You can also include a roadside service to your vehicle. This will cover breakdowns and assists you in getting back on the road.

Locking the Doors

It's a humiliating moment when you lock your keys inside your car. In the best-case scenario there is an acquaintance or family member nearby who can open the door for you without damaging your vehicle. If not, it can be fairly easy to gain access back to your vehicle using the appropriate tools. It depends on the type of car you drive and the type of lock that are installed in it.

For instance, if the car has manual locks instead of sensor-operated locks, you can make use of a thin rod or wire to open the doors. You can use a coathanger wire bent into a lasso-like shape or, in newer vehicles, the metal rod built into your key fob. There are also "lock picking" kits at a variety of hardware stores, which include the rod made of metal and instructions to help unlock your car's door.

It is important to first determine the whereabouts of the "unlock" button. It may be near the key fob, or it could be on a wall in the front of the car that's visible from the windshield. Once you have this information you can use the rod or coat hanger to create an opening between the door and its frame or window. Then you can open the door and press the button to unlock the door.

Another thing to consider is whether your door locks have an opening switch that you can push to open them. Some modern automobiles have these switches in the trunk, typically on the side closest to the seats. You could also try the emergency release tab which folds down the seat so you can climb into the trunk and grab your keys.

If none of these strategies work, you need to call for help. You can ask a friend to assist you, if they have the same car as you do. Or you can ask your auto dealer to make a new key for you. You can obtain an additional key for cheaper than if you hire a locksmith.

Locking the Trunk

It's not a good idea to secure the trunk of your car unless you are trying to hide valuables. While it is a great way to keep thieves out of your stuff, it also hinders opening the trunk without using your key fob. You can fix this issue by concealing a spare car keys under the rear bumper or in the trunk. This method isn't 100% secure however, and it's easy for thieves to locate, but it may help keep them from trying to open your trunk in the first place.

Modern cars have gone to great lengths to ensure that only the key fob will be able to unlock the trunk. To safeguard your possessions, many manufacturers have locked the lever for trunk release inside the cabin or in the back seat. The good news is that you can save money by using a Slim Jim or calling roadside assistance instead of hiring a locksmith.

You can use a wire hanger to attempt to open the trunk of your car. However, you need to be careful not to scratch the paint. You'll also have to bend the hanger on one side so that it is able to form the size of a hook. Then, you can insert the hook into the gap between the back of the seat and the trunk. You will know you have the right lever or button if you feel a sting.

You can also open the trunk if have access to your car's front cabin. This is accomplished by pressing a button located in the cabin. This method isn't 100% secure because a burglar can see the button and see that your valuables are in the trunk.

The other method involves using the latch mechanism to open the trunk. This is a straightforward method, but it only works in the event that your car is not fully charged and you hear the door locks click when you press them. The engine might also have to be running to trigger the latch.

Checking the Battery

If you are unable to unlock the doors using any of the methods listed above, it's likely that you have a dead battery inside your key fob. The good news is that most car fobs have a built-in emergency key that can be used to open the driver's door if it is locked. This is typically a separate key that was included in the car or can be located in the glove box or the center console.

The most common reason why the car key won't turn on is because there is an obstruction in the lock's cylinder. Dirt or grime or other debris can cause this issue. It blocks the pins from dropping correctly when you insert your key. You can use compressed air or a flashlight to locate any obstructions in the lock cylinder. If you're careful you can clear the debris and ensure that your key works in the ignition whenever needed.

Another reason that could cause a car key not to turn in the ignition is damage to the cylinder itself. In this situation, it is likely that the lock cylinder is damaged and requires replacement. This could be a costly repair however, there are solutions to temporarily solve this problem.

For example, you can use a wire hanger to pry away a small section of trim around the door handle or panel where the key cylinder is situated. However, this method is not recommended if do not have much experience in DIY projects as it is difficult to accomplish and could damage your vehicle. In addition, you should ensure that your car is completely turned off before attempting any work on it.

It can be very frustrating to accidentally lock your keys in your car. It's important to be calm and follow the suggestions above to get them back them safely without causing any additional damage to your vehicle. You should also check your insurance policy to see if the replacement of your keys is covered.

Help is needed.

There are some things you need to do before you call for help if you've locked your keys inside your car door open. First, if you are at home and have a spare key, have someone bring it to you and unlock your car that way. You won't have to pay for an emergency locksmith service. The second option is to call a friend or family member's phone to determine if they have the key. Many people have spare car keys at home or work to help when you've locked yourself in. Third, contact roadside assistance companies like AAA. They have kits specifically designed to unlock car keys inside vehicles and are in a position to open your car for much less than the locksmith would charge. But, they'll need to know your VIN number (visible in front of the windshield wiper) and evidence of ownership to do this.

If the situation is urgent and you have a small child or pet in your car, call 911 immediately. The police will be sent to your location to safely remove the child or animal from the vehicle. This could include using a small jim to open the door, or breaking the window.

Locking your car keys in the vehicle is never enjoyable, but it could be a minor nuisance in the majority of instances. By following these guidelines, you avoid being stuck and prepare a plan for the next time this occurs.

Drivers can take additional steps to avoid being stuck in their car in the future. For instance they can download the app from their vehicle manufacturer or keep a spare key in a safe location outside the vehicle. Moody also recommends that motorists purchase a roadside service plan that includes assistance for locking out and contacting their car manufacturer to request an alternate key. This will save you money in the long run, because getting locked out of your vehicle is almost always covered by this type of coverage.