How Can I Get Back in My Car If I Lock My Keys in the Car?
You've probably locked the keys to your car at least one time if you own a car. It's usually at the worst time possible.
Keep your spare key in a safe place such as your wallet or purse. Alternatively leave it with someone you trust that can bring it to you.
1. Contact a locksmith
There's almost nothing worse than locking your keys inside the car. It can ruin your day - especially when it's an icy or hot day and you have young children or pets in the vehicle. It's a risk to be locked out of your car during bad weather. Knowing what to do is essential if this happens.
First, be calm. Normal for your heart rate to rise and your palms to sweat. You'll also want to assess the situation before you take any action. You may be able to unlock your car's doors by using non-destructive and safe methods, such as shoestrings or inflatable wedges. It's a good idea however, to add an unlock code into your phone in the event that you don't succeed or can't find one in a hurry.
Some roadside assistance companies such as AAA, offer services for members who lock their keys inside their car. You can call them to request assistance, but it will usually take a while before they can arrive. In the meantime, you could try using shoestrings, a doorstop or a wire coat hanger to gain entry into your car. This method isn't foolproof and you may end up damaging your vehicle.
You can also make use of your smartphone to search for local companies that provide assistance. It is important to be aware that some of these companies may be scammers. Before calling a company ensure that you go through reviews and research them thoroughly. You could also ask your friends or family members for suggestions.
If you don't have a locksmith programed into your phone, you can contact your garage. You can also call your garage. They might have the tools and expertise to unlock your vehicle without the need of an expert. You'll likely have to provide proof of ownership for the vehicle, such as your driver's license, registration or driver's license, and your current address in order to help you. They can dispatch a locksmith directly to your location to solve your issue quickly.
2. Contact towing truck
It's not the most pleasant experience to lock your keys inside your car, but it does happen to everyone. There are a few ways to gain entry into your car without paying for roadside assistance or contacting an locksmith. First, you should determine whether your roadside assistance coverage includes key replacement. It's usually a supplemental coverage but it's worth a look to determine if you have this. If you do, just call them and they'll dispatch an tow truck to help you out.
If you don't have roadside help, stay calm and use your common sense. It's not a good idea to pry your car's door open or employ any other methods that may cause damage to your vehicle. You could ask a neighbor or passers-by for help, but only if you're in a safe area. Asking strangers for assistance in a busy area could be risky.
Another option is to call your local police department. This isn't an immediate solution, however, as the majority of police officers are concerned with safety and life-threatening scenarios. If you are locked out of your car at night, and it's not located in a hazardous area police officers can respond quickly.
You could also call locksmiths to come out and unlock your car. You'll have to pay a small amount but it's less expensive than paying for roadside assistance. If you're worried about the cost, consider getting a spare key for your vehicle. It's a good idea keep it somewhere handy like your wallet or purse or in a keybox that is magnetic under the front seat. If you don't have a spare key, then make sure you have the contact number for the roadside assistance company plugged into your phone so that you can contact them quickly if needed. This number should be saved to your phone prior to leaving so that you are confident that you can call them in an emergency.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
We've all been there: you get home from a long and tiring day and lock your car keys inside. It's a nightmare scenario, but one that can be avoided with a bit preparation.
Before you call roadside assistance, make sure there aren't any people or pets in the vehicle. If there are, they may be in danger of heat stroke or other medical emergency.
You'll also want to know if the car has a spare key or not. If it does, then you could use it to open the vehicle without paying an locksmith. This will save you money and time if you lose keys often.
You can contact your insurer for assistance if you don't have spare or can't locate it. Most insurance companies provide some form of roadside assistance coverage which will cover the situation. This is only available if you have paid for your policy. If you don't you'll have to pay for the tow truck or locksmith.
Some companies, like State Farm, will include locksmith services as part of their roadside assistance coverage. This is an excellent option to avoid the cost and hassle of losing your keys. It could be a great addition to any insurance plan for vehicles.
Examine the trunk and the seat of your car prior to you get in. You can also purchase keys or lanyards for your keys to help keep the track of them. You can also stay at peace if you keep them on hand at all times in the event that you lock your keys in your car.
4. Call Your Car Dealer
Locking your keys in the vehicle is a common issue. However, locked out of car service does not have to be an urgent situation. It's possible to return your keys to the car without contacting a tow-truck or the police unless you're stuck in a crowded lane or if you have pets or people inside who are in danger. Before you do anything else, you should call your local dealer to determine whether they can assist you. They'll have access to specific tools that could be able to open your vehicle without causing any damage.
If your vehicle is covered under warranty, you may also be able to obtain an additional key from the dealership. In this case it is crucial to keep your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. It should be included on your car's paperwork or in your insurance documents. This information is vital, as it will help the dealer quickly identify your car and open the doors.
You'll be better prepared if you've got a spare set of car keys at your home or with a trusted friend. It's important to keep the numbers of these people on speed dial in case you lock your keys in the car and require assistance.
You should also make sure that you have an original copy of your car's registration or license in case you need to contact the dealership. If you have to contact the dealership, they can offer a price for a replacement key. It'll cost more than a locksmith, but could cause less hassle for you. It's also an excellent idea for drivers to keep a record of their vehicle's make model, year and year in the event that they have to call the dealership.