How Can I Get Back in My Car If I Lock My Keys in the Car?
If you're a car owner you've probably locked your keys in the car at least once. It's typically the most inconvenient time.
Keep a spare key in a place that is secure, such as in your purse or wallet. Or leave one with someone you trust that can bring it to you.
1. Call a Locksmith
There's nothing worse than locking the keys in your car. It can ruin your day especially if it's an extremely hot or cold day and you have small pets or children in the car. It could be even dangerous if you're locked out in bad weather conditions, so it's important to know what you can do in case this occurs to you.
Stay calm. Normal for your heart rate to rise and palms to sweat. You should also consider the situation thoroughly before you take any action. You might be able to open your car's door using non-destructive and safe methods, like shoestrings. It's a good idea however, to install the number of a locksmith to your phone in the event that you don't succeed or can't get hold of one immediately.
Some roadside assistance providers such as AAA provide assistance to their members who lock their keys inside their cars. You can call them to ask for assistance, but it will usually take a bit of time before they can arrive. In the meantime, you could try using shoestrings, a doorstop or a coat hanger made of wire to get into your vehicle. This method isn't 100% secure and you could end up damaging your vehicle during the process.
You can also use your smartphone to search for local companies that offer assistance. It's important to remember that some of these companies might be scams. Before you call a company ensure that you go through reviews and research them thoroughly. You might also ask a trusted friend or family member for suggestions.
If you don't have a locksmith programmed into your phone, you can contact your garage. They may have the tools and know-how that can help you unlock your car without the need for an expert. You'll probably need to show proof of ownership for the car, such as your driver's license or registration and your current location in order to assist you. They can then send an expert locksmith to your address and resolve your issue quickly and safely.
2. Call a tow truck
No one likes to lock their keys inside their car but it happens to everyone at some moment. There are a few options to gain access to your car without having to pay for roadside assistance or calling locksmith. First, you should determine whether your roadside assistance coverage includes key replacement. It's usually an optional insurance but it's worth a look to find out whether you're covered. If you do, call them and they'll dispatch an tow truck to help you out.
If locked out car do not have roadside help, stay calm and use common sense. It's not recommended to use methods that could harm your vehicle, like prying your door open. You can also ask a neighbor or passers-by for assistance, but only if you're in a safe environment. If you're in an area that is crowded area, it could be risky to ask strangers for help.
Another option is to contact your local police department. It's not an immediate solution however, since the majority of police officers are focused on safety and life-threatening situations. They might be able to assist in an emergency situation however if you're locked out of your car at night, and it's not a dangerous area it's unlikely that they will respond immediately.
You could also call a locksmith to come out and unlock your car. There's a small cost, but it's less expensive than paying for roadside assistance. If you're worried about the cost, you should consider buying a spare key to your vehicle. It's a good idea to keep it in a convenient place in your purse or wallet, or in a keybox that is magnetic under the front seat. If you don't have a spare key, ensure that you have the contact number for an emergency roadside assistance service programmed into your phone, so that you can contact them immediately if you need to. The number should be saved to your phone before you leave to ensure that you will be able to call them in an emergency situation.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
We've all been there - at the end of a long day, you return to your car and lock your keys inside. It's a nightmare however it can be avoided with a bit of preparation.
Before calling roadside assistance, ensure there aren't any persons or pets in the car. If they are, then they could be at risk of heat stroke or another medical emergency.
You'll want to check whether you have a spare car key. If it does, then you can use it to unlock the car without paying for a locksmith. This will save you time and money if you lose keys often.
Contact your insurance company for assistance if you don't have spare or aren't able to locate it. Most car insurance companies provide roadside assistance that can help the cost in this case. This only applies in the event that you have paid your policy. If not you'll have to pay for the tow truck or locksmith.
Certain companies, like State Farm, include locksmith services as part of their roadside assistance coverage. This is a great way to avoid the hassle and cost of losing your car keys and it can be a great addition to any insurance policy for your vehicle.
Examine the trunk and the seat of your car prior to you go in. You can also buy an lanyard or keychain to hold your keys to help keep track of them. You can also stay at peace if you keep your keys with you at all times in the event that you lock your keys in the car.
4. Contact Your Car Dealer
Locking your keys inside the vehicle is a frequent problem. However, it does not have to be a major issue. Unless your vehicle is stuck in a busy lane or has elderly, children, or pets at risk inside of it, you should be able to return to your car without calling the police or a tow truck. Before doing anything else,, call your local dealer to determine whether they can assist you. They may have tools to open your car without doing any damage.
If your vehicle is under warranty, you may also be able to purchase a new key from the dealership. In this instance it is crucial to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. It should be on the vehicle's documentation or in your insurance documents. It is essential to keep this information in your possession since it can help the dealer identify your vehicle and open the door quickly.
You'll be more prepared if you've got a spare set of car keys in your home or with a trusted friend. You should also keep their phone numbers on speed dial in case you need to lock your keys inside the car.
Also, ensure that you have a copy of your vehicle's registration or license in the event that you need to call the dealership. If you must contact the dealership, they can offer a price for a replacement key. It's more expensive than a locksmith but may cause less hassle for you. It's a good idea to keep track of the make, model and year of your vehicle in case you need to call the dealership.