What to Do If You Locked Yourself Out of Your Car
The majority of car owners have locked their cars out at some point. It can be frustrating and scary however, you can solve it.
Rather than panicking, try to stay calm and consider all of your options before making a snap decision. You may be able to get roadside assistance from your credit card or insurance policy.
1. Lock the doors
The first thing you should do if you've locked yourself out of your vehicle is to make sure the doors are all locked. In a rush, people tend to forget things. The worst thing you could do is to spend your time trying open a door which isn't even locked!
Check that all the windows are closed. Many people who have their windows locked out of their vehicle forget to close the windows behind them. This can lead to problems in the future!
It's also an excellent idea to inform your family and friends be aware that you're locked out of your vehicle. They'll be able to keep an eye on you and help you in an emergency. If you're purchasing new cars it's a good idea to get additional keys and store them in a safe location. This will prevent you from locking yourself out of your car in the future.
Try some of the workarounds that were mentioned above to regain access to your car. You can, for example employ a screwdriver and a rod to pry open the lock. Another option is to make use of a coathanger that is straightened and placed between the window and weatherstripping to help lift the locking mechanism. You can also buy inflatable wedge kits specifically made for this use.
Be aware, however, that there are times that you can't wait for help to unlock the door. For example, if you have a pet or a child locked in the car and you aren't able to risk them getting hot or cold inside as you wait for someone to arrive and unlock the door!
2. Help is available
Being locked out of your vehicle can be a stressful and upsetting experience. If you're able to remain calm and call for assistance, it won't need to ruin your day.
If you find that you've locked yourself out of your vehicle take a look at the situation to determine if it's an emergency. This is difficult to accomplish when your vehicle is located in a hazardous area, like on railroad tracks or in a crime-prone area. If you can, call 911 to inform them that there is a pet or child in the vehicle and you require their assistance.
If you're unable to contact someone immediately, ask for help from other people. A friend or family member could be able unlock your car door for you or they may have a spare key that they can leave with you in the event of an emergency. Alternately, you can try breaking windows, though this isn't advised as it could be dangerous and costly, particularly when the windows are constructed of safety glass.
It's recommended to keep the number of a Gainesville locksmith in your pocket, in case you lock your keys in your home one day. You can hire a professional to come and help you within minutes.
If you're a part of a roadside assistance program like AAA, it's a good idea to keep their number in your pocket, too. Many of these companies offer 24/7 support and have a team of experts available to assist in lockout situations. These companies can often get you into your vehicle without causing any damage to it. They're worth a call. It's also a good idea to keep a routine of checking your keys prior to leaving your car, and also consider using keychain accessories that help to make them more noticeable.
3. Find an extra key
The best way to avoid getting locked out of your vehicle is to have an extra key. It may appear to be a problem of the first order but it's much cheaper than calling a locksmith or tow company! You can keep keys in a purse or wallet, or even in a magnetic key holder that you can put on the underside of your vehicle. You could also invest in a kit that includes inflatable wedges and tools that can be extended to unlock a locked vehicle.
Another alternative is to ask a family or friend member to bring your spare key when you're away from home. This only works in cases where they're within driving distance, but it could save you time and money in an emergency lockout.
It's also a good idea to swap keys with friends or roommates each month, so that you don't wear down your primary key as quickly. This is particularly beneficial when you reside in an area that has plenty of snowfall, as the cold weather can increase wear and wear and tear.
It's never a good feeling to lose your keys, but it does happen to everyone. If you encounter this scenario, try to stay calm and make a plan. Keep in mind that there are a lot of tools and tricks to help you get back into your car, including using a Slim Jim or other tool, inflatable wedges as well as a bobby pin or a wire coat hanger. It might take a few attempts but don't quit! You'll eventually unlock your door. Check all the doors. Particularly if you suspect you've locked yourself out of the back window.
4. For assistance at the roadside, call
A locked car is an extremely stressful situation, especially when there are children or pets inside. There are many methods to gain entry into your vehicle, such as calling roadside assistance and getting an extra.
The first step is to remain calm and consider all your options. This can help you avoid making decisions that are impulsive and stops you from taking drastic measures which could prove risky for you or others. It is also advisable to not leave an extra key in your home in a secluded location. This could be a way for thieves to find the key. It is safer to leave a spare key with your neighbor or a family member, and to check your car prior to leaving.
It might be easier to access your vehicle if you have an entry system that is keyless on a car that is newer. However, if you have an older car you'll need to test other ways. A lot of gas stations can assist you with this as they usually have tools that can unlock your door without damage. One option is to use a long hook and pull the lock. Another option is to utilize a shoelace.
Contact 911 immediately if your keys are in your ignition, or you suspect that someone is trapped in your vehicle. A police officer or a firefighter might be able unlock the door of your car based on the situation. If not, you should contact a locksmith for assistance. Keep the number of your local locksmith handy since it could take time to get to you.
5. Call an expert locksmith
A locksmith is your best option if you're locked out of your car and can't gain entry using any other method. car opening service specialize in unlocking vehicles, so they can do it quickly and efficiently. They also can help you avoid future lockouts by installing alarm systems and advising on vehicle securing procedures.
Double-check that all the doors are locked and that your keys are locked prior to calling for help. It can be easy to lose a key in your car, especially if you're absent-minded or rushed as you exit. You can avoid many headaches by checking every door.
If you're stuck outside your vehicle roadside assistance services such as AAA can be very helpful. They have specially designed kits for these situations and can typically be there within a few minutes. You can also contact an auto-locksmith in your area for immediate assistance. A lot of them provide 24/7 emergency assistance.
If you're unable to gain entry to your vehicle on your own, it may be best to try to find an area that is safe to wait for assistance. If you're able to seek out an area where people will not think you're a robber or burglar.
It's an enormous hassle to be locked out of your vehicle. If you have a spare key, follow proper securing procedures and don't rush to get in and out of your vehicle, it's unlikely that this will happen to you all the time. If it does, though do not panic - there are plenty of workarounds that can help you solve the issue and get on track!