How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle

It is not unusual to lock your keys in the vehicle. This could be a stressful situation. However this is a scenario that can be resolved.

There are ways to ensure that you don't get locked out in the future, including storing spare keys somewhere safe and secure. You can also include roadside assistance to your vehicle, which covers breakdowns and helps drivers get back on their way.

Locking the Doors

It can be an embarrassing moment when you lock your keys inside your car. If you're fortunate there's a family member or friend is nearby and can unlock the car door without causing damage. It is still possible to access your car with the right tools, even if you do not have a friend or family member in the vicinity. The type of vehicle you drive and the locks that are installed inside will determine how easy it will be to get back inside.

If the locks on your car are mechanical and not controlled by sensors you can open the doors by using the help of a rod or wire. This might be a wire coat hanger that you bend into the shape of a lasso or for vehicles that are more recent the rod of a metal is integrated into the key fob. You can also find "lock picking" kits at a variety of hardware stores that have the rod of steel and instructions to help unlock your car's doors.

To apply this method, you have to identify where the "unlock" switch is located. It can be found on the key fob or on a piece of paper visible through the windscreen. Once you know the location, use an iron rod or coat hanger in order to create a space between the car's door and the frame or window. Then, you can go inside and press the button.

Another thing to consider is whether your door locks come with a release switch that you can press to open them. Certain cars, especially those that are more recent are equipped with this feature in the trunk. It is usually near the passenger seat. You could also try the emergency release tab which folds the seat down so that you can crawl into the trunk and take your keys.

If none of these solutions work, you'll have to seek assistance. You could ask a friend to help you, if they own the same car as yours. You can also request your dealer to make a new key for you. They are able to do this for less than the cost of a locksmith.

Locking the Trunk

It's not a great idea to lock the trunk of your vehicle unless you intend to hide valuables. While it is a great way to keep thieves out of your belongings, it also prevents you from opening the trunk without using your key fob. However, you can overcome this problem by placing a spare key in the rear fender well, or on the floor of the trunk. This isn't foolproof and is easily discovered by a thief, but it can deter them from trying to open your trunk.

Modern automobiles have gone to great lengths to make sure that their trunks can only be opened by a person with a key fob. In order to protect your possessions, many manufacturers have locked the trunk release lever inside the cabin or in the back seat. You can still save money if use a Slim Jim, or call roadside assistance rather than hiring a locksmith.

You can open your trunk by using a wire hanger. But, you must be cautious not to damage the paint job. You will also need to bend the hanger on one side so that it is able to form a small hook. After that, slide the hook into the space between the back of the seat and the trunk. If you can feel resistance, you have located the lever or button that opens the trunk.

You can also open the trunk if you have access to the front cabin. This is done by pressing a button in the cabin. This method isn't foolproof because a burglar can see the button and see that your valuables are in the trunk.

Another method is to open the trunk with the latch mechanism. This is a simple way to unlock the trunk, however only if you own a car that is not fully charged. You will also need to hear your door locks clicking when you press them. The engine may also need to be running in order to activate the latch.

Checking the Battery

It is possible that your key fob battery is dead if you are unable to unlock the door by any of the methods above. The good thing is that many car fobs have a built-in emergency key that can be used to open the door of the driver if it is locked. This is typically an additional key that was included with the vehicle or can be located in the glove box or the center console.

Usually an obstruction in the lock's cylinder is the reason why a key won't work in the ignition. This could be due to dirt, grime, or other debris that enters the lock and prevents pins from dropping properly when you insert the key. You can use compressed air or a flashlight to locate any obstructions within the lock's cylinder. If you are careful you can clear the debris and make sure your key works when you need it.

Damage to the cylinder can cause a car to not turn on. In this scenario the lock cylinder is likely damaged and requires to be replaced. This could be a costly repair however, there are solutions to solve the issue temporarily.

For instance, you can employ wire hooks to cut off a small section on the door handle where the key cylinder resides. This is not a good idea for those who are new to DIY projects. It isn't easy and could cause damage to your vehicle. Also, make sure to shut off your car completely before beginning any work.

It can be a hassle to lock your keys accidentally locked keys in car; linked site, in your car. It's crucial to remain calm and follow the suggestions above to help you retrieve them safely without causing any additional damage to your vehicle. Also, you should look over your insurance policy to see if the replacement of your keys is covered.

Need Help?

Before calling for help in the event that you lock your keys in your vehicle, there are a few things that you can do. First, if you're at home and have an extra key, ask someone bring it to you and then unlock a car service your vehicle that way. This will save you from needing to pay an emergency locksmith service call. You can also contact an acquaintance or family member to see if he or has the key. Many people will keep a spare key in their home or at work, so they can help you out if you lock yourself out of your car. Third, call roadside assistance providers such as AAA. They have special kits to unlock vehicles and will be capable of opening car your vehicle for a fraction of the cost a locksmith would charge. However, they will need to know your VIN number (visible near the front windshield wiper) and proof of ownership to perform this.

If the emergency is urgent and you have pets or children inside your vehicle, call 911 immediately. They will send police to your location and employ specialized tools or methods to safely take the animal or child out of the vehicle. This could involve using a jim that is slim to open the door, or breaking a window.

It's not enjoyable to lock your keys in your car, but in many cases it's an inconvenience of a minor nature. Following these tips will help you avoid being left stranded and prepare a plan for the next time this happens.

Drivers can take additional ways to avoid getting stuck in their car in the future. For instance they can download the mobile app of the car unlock services manufacturer or keep keys in an accessible place outside the vehicle. Additionally, Moody recommends that drivers contact their car manufacturer for an alternative key and to purchase a roadside assistance plan that provides lockout assistance. This could save you money in the long run, since getting locked out of your car is usually covered by this kind of insurance.