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 usually at the worst time possible.
Keep a spare key in a secure place like your purse or wallet. Or, leave a spare with someone you trust that can get it.
1. Call for a locksmith
There's almost nothing worse than locking your keys inside the car. It can ruin your day - especially in the event of 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 to do in case this occurs to you.
Stay calm. Normal for your heart rate to rise and your palms to sweat. You should also assess the situation before taking any action. It's possible to unlock your car's door using safe and non-destructive methods such as wedges made of shoestrings or inflatable ones. It's a good idea, however, to add an unlock code into your phone in case you don't succeed or can't locate one right away.
Some roadside assistance providers like AAA offer services for members who lock their keys in the car. You can call to ask for assistance but it might take some time for them to arrive. In the meantime, you can try using shoestrings, a doorstop or a wire coat hanger to get into your vehicle. This method isn't 100% secure and you could end up damaging your vehicle.
You can also search "locksmith near me" on your phone to find local companies that can help. However, it's important to be aware that certain companies may be scams. Before calling a business be sure to go through reviews and conduct a thorough research. You can also ask a friend or family member for recommendations.
You can also contact the garage if you don't already have a locksmith programed into your phone. You can also contact your garage. They may have the tools and knowledge to unlock your vehicle without the need for an expert. In order to get help, you'll need to provide proof of ownership of the car (such as your driver's licence or registration) and the current location. They can provide a locksmith right to your location to solve your issue fast.
2. Call a Tow Truck
Nobody likes locking their keys in their car however, it happens to everyone at some time or another. There are a few options to get into your vehicle without having to pay for roadside service or contacting locksmith. Find out if the roadside assistance plan includes key replacement. It's an optional coverage that's worth looking into. If you do, call them and they'll send a tow truck to assist you out.
If you don't have roadside assistance, remain calm and use your common sense. It's not advised to use methods that could harm your vehicle, for instance, opening your car door. You can also ask a neighbour or passersby for assistance but only if you're in a safe area. If you ask for help from strangers in an area that is crowded could be risky.
You can also contact your local police department. This may not be a quick fix, as police officers are typically more concerned with security or life-threatening situations. If you are locked out of your vehicle at night and it's not located in a dangerous area police officers can respond quickly.
You can also call an locksmith to unlock your car. There's a small cost, but it's cheaper than paying for roadside assistance. If you're worried about the cost, you should consider getting a spare key for your vehicle. Keep it in your wallet, purse or magnetic key box underneath the front seat. If you don't have a spare key then make sure you have the number of an emergency roadside assistance service programmed into your phone, so you can contact them quickly when needed. It's a good idea have this number saved before you go out to ensure that you feel confident knowing that you can contact them in an emergency.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
We've all done it - you get home from a long day at work and lock your keys to your car opening inside. It's a nightmare scenario but it's easily avoided with making a few plans.
Before calling roadside assistance, make sure that there aren't any people or pets in your vehicle. If they are, then they could be at risk of heat stroke or other medical emergency.
You'll also want to know if the car has an extra key or not. If it does, you can use it to open the car without paying an locksmith. This can save you money and time and is a good idea in case you often lose your keys.
You can contact your insurer for assistance if you don't have spare or are unable to locate it. Most insurance companies provide some kind of roadside assistance coverage which will cover the situation. However, this is only an option if your policy has been paid for. If not, you will be required to pay for a locksmith or a tow truck.
Some companies, such as State Farm, include locksmith services as part of their roadside assistance coverage. This is a great way to save yourself the hassle and expense of losing your car keys, and it could be a great addition to any auto insurance policy.
Before you get into your vehicle, make sure to take a few moments to inspect the seat and trunk of it for any lost items. You can also buy keys or lanyards for your keys to help keep the track of them. You can also stay calm if you keep them with you always in case you forget to lock your keys in the lockout car service.
4. Call Your Car Dealer
Locking your keys inside the vehicle is a common problem. However it doesn't need to be a major issue. It's possible to return your keys to the car without calling a tow truck or the police, unless you're in a crowded lane or if there are people or pets inside that are at risk. Contact your local dealer to see if they are capable of helping. They may have the right tools to open your vehicle without doing any damage.
If your vehicle is under warranty, you may be able to get an additional key from the dealership. If this is the case, you must have an original copy of your vehicle identification number, also known as a VIN, on hand. The VIN should be found on the documents for your vehicle or in your insurance documents. This information is crucial, as it will help the dealer quickly identify your car and unlock the doors.
You'll be more prepared if you've got an extra set of keys for your car 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.
You should also make sure that you have an original copy of your vehicle's registration or license in case you have to contact the dealership. If you need to contact the dealership, they will offer a price for a replacement key. It will cost more than a locksmith, but it could be less hassle for you. It's a good idea to note the make, model and year of your vehicle in case you need to call the dealership.