What Can I Do If I Lock My Keys In The Car

Locking your keys in the car can be a frustrating and stressful experience. It can happen to anyone, no matter how careful you are. However, there’s no need to panic! There are several quick and effective solutions to help you retrieve your keys and get back on the road in no time.

If you find yourself in this situation, the first thing to do is to remain calm. Panicking will only make the situation worse, as it can cloud your judgment and prevent you from thinking clearly. Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Determine if there are any immediate solutions or if you need to seek outside help.

In some cases, you may be able to retrieve your keys by using a spare key or a keyless entry device. If you have a spare key, give it a try. If not, check if you have a keyless entry device that can unlock the car doors remotely. This can save you from having to call a professional locksmith or the car dealership.

If none of these options are available to you, it may be necessary to call for assistance. A locksmith is a trained professional who can safely and quickly unlock your car without causing any damage. They have the necessary tools and expertise to handle this type of situation. It’s important to choose a reputable locksmith and be prepared to provide them with the necessary information to make the process as smooth as possible.

Call a Professional Locksmith

If you find yourself in a situation where you have accidentally locked your keys in your car, don’t panic. One of the best and quickest solutions is to call a professional locksmith.

A professional locksmith is trained and equipped to handle various lockout situations, including car lockouts. They have the necessary tools and expertise to safely and efficiently unlock your car without causing any damage to the vehicle. Attempting to unlock your car yourself can lead to potential damage and may even make the situation worse.

When you call a professional locksmith, they will arrive at your location equipped with specialized tools to help unlock your car quickly. They have the knowledge and experience to work with different car models and types of locks, ensuring that they can get you back into your car as soon as possible.

It is important to note that you should always choose a reliable and reputable locksmith. Look for a locksmith who is licensed, insured, and has positive customer reviews. This will ensure that you are getting quality service and that your car is in capable hands.

In addition to unlocking your car, a professional locksmith may also be able to provide other services such as key duplication, key replacement, and even rekeying your car’s locks if needed. They can also provide valuable advice on enhancing the security of your car’s locks.

While it may be tempting to try other methods like using a coat hanger or attempting to break into your own car, it is best to leave the job to a professional locksmith. They have the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to handle car lockouts safely and efficiently.

So, if you ever find yourself in the unfortunate situation of locking your keys in your car, remember to call a professional locksmith for quick and reliable assistance.

Check for Spare Keys

One of the first things you can do if you lock your keys in the car is to check for spare keys. Many people keep spare keys in their homes or give them to a friend or family member for safekeeping.

If you have a spare key, call the person who has it and ask them to bring it to you. If the spare key is in your home, try to find a spare key to your house and retrieve it. With a spare key, you can unlock your car and safely retrieve your main set of keys.

In case you don’t have a spare key, consider contacting a locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to unlock your car without causing any damage. Locksmiths can be a bit expensive, but it is worth it if you need to access your car quickly.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to have a spare key handy to avoid getting locked out of your car. Keep a spare key in a safe place and consider giving one to a trusted friend or family member for emergencies.

Use a Coat Hanger

If you lock your keys in your car, you can try using a coat hanger to unlock it. This method requires a little bit of finesse, but it can be an effective way to regain access to your vehicle.

To use a coat hanger, straighten it out and bend one end into a hook shape. Carefully slide the hooked end of the coat hanger between the window and the weatherstripping. Once the hook is inside, try to maneuver it towards the car’s lock mechanism.

Once you have positioned the hook near the lock, try to hook onto the lock mechanism and pull it upwards. This may take a few attempts, but with patience and a steady hand, you should be able to unlock the car. Once the car is unlocked, be sure to retrieve your keys and store them in a safe place to avoid locking them in the car again.

It’s important to note that using a coat hanger to unlock a car may not be possible with all types of car locks. Some newer cars have complex lock systems that are not easily bypassed with a coat hanger. In these cases, it’s best to call a professional locksmith for assistance.

Try a Slim Jim

If you find yourself locked out of your car and your keys are sitting right there on the seat, don’t panic! One of the easiest ways to unlock your car is by using a slim jim. A slim jim is a thin, flat piece of metal that is specifically designed to unlock car doors.

Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in this situation:

1. Assess the situation: Take a moment to calm down and assess the situation. Make sure you’re in a safe location and determine if you have access to a slim jim.
2. Find a slim jim: If you don’t have one readily available, you may be able to borrow one from a nearby auto repair shop, locksmith, or even a friend who has one.
3. Insert the slim jim: Slide the slim jim between the window glass and the weatherstripping on the inside of the car door. The goal is to hook the lock mechanism and pull it up or press it down, depending on the type of lock.
4. Work the slim jim: Once inserted, maneuver the slim jim until you feel it catch on the lock mechanism. Gently move it up or down until you hear or feel the lock release.
5. Open the door: Once the lock releases, carefully open the door and retrieve your keys. Be gentle when opening the door to avoid damaging the lock or the door handle.

It’s important to note that using a slim jim can be tricky and may require some practice. If you’re not confident in your ability to use a slim jim or you don’t have access to one, it’s best to contact a professional locksmith who can safely unlock your car without causing any damage.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to have a spare key handy or consider keeping a key in a magnetic lock box underneath your car for emergencies. This can help prevent future lockouts and save you from the hassle of trying to unlock your car using alternative methods.

Use a Shoestring

If you find yourself locked out of your car, don’t panic. You could try using a shoestring to unlock the door. Here’s what you can do:

1. Find a shoestring that is long enough to reach the lock inside your car.

2. Make a small loop with the shoestring.

3. Insert the shoestring into the top corner of the car door, between the door frame and the door itself.

4. Slide the looped end of the shoestring over the lock button inside the car.

5. Pull the shoestring up and towards you to unlock the door.

This method may take some patience and practice, but it can be an effective way to unlock your car if you have locked your keys inside.

Note: It’s important to remember that this method may not work on all cars, particularly newer models with advanced locking systems. If you are unable to unlock your car using a shoestring, it’s best to call a professional locksmith for assistance. They have the tools and expertise to safely unlock your car without causing any damage.

Break a Window

If you find yourself in a situation where you have locked your keys in the car and don’t have any other means to access them, breaking a window might be your only option. While this may seem extreme, it can be an effective solution to retrieve your keys.

However, breaking a car window should only be done as a last resort. It can cause damage to your vehicle and is not recommended unless there is no other way to get your keys out of the locked car.

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you find yourself needing to break a window:

1. Assess the situation: Make sure that breaking the window is truly your only option. Check if there are any other ways to regain access to your car.
2. Choose the right window: Look for the window that can be easily replaced or repaired. It’s better to break a side window rather than the windshield, as it is usually cheaper to fix.
3. Protect yourself: Before breaking the window, ensure you are wearing protective gloves and eyewear to prevent any injuries from shards of glass.
4. Use a tool: Find a suitable object, such as a hammer, screwdriver, or window-breaking tool, to break the window. Aim for the corner or edges where the glass is weakest.
5. Clear the broken glass: Once the window is broken, use caution while entering the vehicle to avoid injuries from any remaining shards of glass.

Remember, breaking a window should only be considered as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted. It is always a good idea to keep spare car keys in a safe place or have a backup plan in case of emergency situations like these.

Use a Tennis Ball

If you find yourself locked out of your car with your keys inside, you can try using a tennis ball to unlock the door. This method works on cars that have a manual lock system. Here’s what you can do:

1. Take a regular tennis ball and cut a small hole in it. The hole should be just big enough to fit over the lock of your car.
2. Hold the tennis ball tightly against the lock, making sure the hole is directly over it.
3. Gently press the tennis ball against the lock while applying some force.
4. The pressure created by the force you apply will create a burst of air that pushes the mechanism inside the lock.
5. This burst of air should unlock the car door.
6. Once the door is unlocked, remove the tennis ball and retrieve your keys.

Please note that this method may not work on all car locks and should only be used as a last resort. It’s always recommended to contact a professional locksmith if you’re unable to unlock your car using conventional methods or if you’re worried about causing damage to your car door.

Ask for Help from a Police Officer

If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve locked your keys in the car and don’t know what to do, one of the best things you can do is ask for help from a police officer. They are trained to handle these types of situations and may be able to assist you in gaining access to your locked car.

When approaching a police officer, be polite and explain your predicament. They may be able to use special tools or methods to unlock your car, such as a slim jim or a car lockout kit. It’s important to note that not all police officers carry these tools with them, but they may be able to call for assistance or direct you to a locksmith who can help.

Remember to have identification on hand to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. The police officer may need to verify your ownership before they can provide assistance. This is to ensure that they are not helping someone steal a car.

If you are unable to locate a police officer, you can also consider calling a towing company or a locksmith. These professionals have the necessary tools and expertise to unlock your car safely without causing damage. However, keep in mind that their services may come at a cost.

It’s always important to remain calm and patient in these situations. Locking your keys in the car can be frustrating, but panicking will not solve the problem. Asking for help from a police officer or a professional locksmith is the best course of action to safely and efficiently retrieve your keys from your locked car.

Call Roadside Assistance

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of locking your keys in the car, one of the first things you should do is call roadside assistance. They are experts in handling this type of situation and will be able to provide you with the assistance you need to get your keys out of the car.

When you call roadside assistance, make sure to provide them with all the necessary information, such as your location, the make and model of your car, and any other relevant details. This will help them to better understand the situation and dispatch the appropriate help as quickly as possible.

While you wait for roadside assistance to arrive, it’s important to stay calm and patient. Trying to force your way into the car or using DIY methods to unlock the door can potentially damage your car and end up costing you more in repairs.

Remember, roadside assistance professionals are trained to handle these types of situations efficiently and safely. They have the right tools and techniques to unlock your car without causing any damage. So, instead of trying to do it yourself and potentially making things worse, it’s best to let the experts handle the situation.

Calling roadside assistance is the best course of action when you lock your keys in the car. They will be able to provide you with the necessary help and get you back on the road in no time.

Use a Lockout Tool Kit

If you find yourself in a situation where you have locked your keys in your car, you might be able to use a lockout tool kit to gain access to your vehicle. These kits are designed to help you unlock your car doors without damaging the locking mechanism or the window.

Lockout tool kits typically include a variety of tools that can be used to unlock different types of car doors. These tools may include slim jims, long reach tools, and air wedges. The slim jim is a thin, flat piece of metal that can be inserted between the door frame and door panel, allowing you to manipulate the locking mechanism and unlock the door.

A long reach tool is a flexible rod with a hook or latching end that can be used to reach the inside of the car and unlock the door. This tool is especially useful if your keys are still inside the car and you need to reach them to unlock the door.

An air wedge is an inflatable wedge that can be inserted between the door frame and door panel to create a gap. This gap can then be used to insert other tools to unlock the door. The air wedge is a great tool to use if you have locked your keys in the car and need to create space to work.

Before attempting to use a lockout tool kit, it is important to note that these tools require some skill and practice to use effectively. If you are not comfortable or do not have experience with using these tools, it may be best to contact a professional locksmith who can safely and quickly unlock your car for you.

In conclusion, a lockout tool kit can be a useful solution if you find yourself locked out of your car. However, it is important to use these tools with caution and practice to avoid causing damage to your car or injuring yourself. If in doubt, it is always best to seek the assistance of a professional locksmith.

Call the Car Manufacturer

If you find yourself in a situation where you lock your keys in your car, one of the first things you can do is contact the car manufacturer. They may be able to provide assistance or recommend a solution for unlocking your car.

Use a Lockout Service

If you find yourself in a situation where you have locked your keys in your car, using a lockout service can be a quick and convenient solution. This service is offered by many professionals who have the tools and expertise to unlock your car without causing any damage.

When you contact a lockout service, they will dispatch a technician to your location. The technician will arrive with the necessary tools to safely and efficiently unlock your car. They will use special tools to manipulate the lock mechanism or gain access through a window or door without causing any harm to your vehicle.

Using a lockout service can save you time and frustration. Instead of attempting to unlock your car yourself and potentially causing damage to your vehicle, a professional lockout service can quickly and safely get you back on the road. They have the experience and knowledge to handle different types of locks and vehicles, ensuring a successful outcome.

It’s important to note that using a lockout service may come with a cost. However, the convenience and peace of mind that come with knowing your car will be unlocked by a professional are worth it. Additionally, some insurance policies may cover lockout services, so be sure to check with your provider.

In conclusion, if you lock your keys in your car, using a lockout service is a reliable option. It allows you to quickly regain access to your vehicle without causing any damage. When in need, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional lockout service for assistance.

Try a DIY Method

If you find yourself locked out of your car, don’t panic. There are several DIY methods you can try to unlock your car and retrieve your keys.

1. Use a shoelace: This method is commonly used for cars with pull-up locks. Take a long shoelace and tie a small loop at one end. Insert the other end of the lace through the top corner of the car door, near the lock. Carefully maneuver the loop around the lock and try to pull it upwards to unlock the door.

2. Try a coat hanger: If your car has a manual lock system, a straightened-out coat hanger can be used to unlock the door. Bend one end of the hanger into a hook shape. Insert the hooked end through the rubber seal surrounding the door window. Gradually maneuver the hook around until you can hook it onto the lock mechanism. Gently pull the hanger upwards to unlock the door.

3. Use a wedge and a rod: This method is popular for cars with electronic lock systems. Insert a wedge, such as a deflated blood pressure cuff or a doorstop, between the door and the car frame to create a small gap. Insert a rod or a long, sturdy object through the gap and try to reach the lock button or the door handle from the inside. Carefully press or pull the button/handle to unlock the door.

4. Call for professional help: If none of the DIY methods work or you don’t feel comfortable attempting them, it’s best to call a professional locksmith or a car service to help you unlock your car. They have the necessary tools and expertise to handle the situation safely and efficiently.

Tip:	If you frequently lock your keys in the car, consider getting a spare key and keeping it in a safe place outside the vehicle. This can save you time and stress in such situations.

Prevent Future Lockouts

To prevent future lockouts and the frustration that comes with them, there are several steps you can take:

1.	Always double-check that you have your keys with you before closing the car door.
2.	Consider investing in a spare key and keeping it in a secure location, such as at home or with a trusted friend or family member.
3.	Keep a spare key in a magnetic key holder attached to the undercarriage of your car.
4.	Consider using a keyless entry system or smartphone app that allows you to lock and unlock your car without using a traditional key.
5.	Regularly check the condition of your car’s locks and get them repaired or replaced if necessary.
6.	Always have a backup plan, such as keeping the contact information of a reliable locksmith in your phone or wallet.

By following these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of locking your keys in your car and avoid the hassle and expense of dealing with a lockout situation.

Q&A:

What should I do if I accidentally lock my keys in my car?

If you accidentally lock your keys in your car, you have a few options. First, you can try using a wire hanger or a long, thin object to carefully unlock the door. If that doesn’t work, you can call a professional locksmith to help you gain access to your car. Alternatively, if you have roadside assistance coverage, you can contact them and they can send someone to unlock your car for you.

Is it possible to unlock a car door with a shoelace?

Yes, it is possible to unlock a car door with a shoelace, but it requires a specific technique. You would need to create a loop with the shoelace, thread it through the top corner of the car door, and then use a pulling motion to unlock the door. However, this method may not work on all types of cars and it can take some practice to master.

Can I break a car window to retrieve my keys?

While breaking a car window is an option to retrieve your keys, it should be a last resort. Breaking a car window can be dangerous and expensive to repair. It’s best to explore other options, such as calling a locksmith or using a wire hanger, before resorting to breaking a window.

What should I do if I lock my keys in my car at night?

If you lock your keys in your car at night, it’s important to stay calm and assess your options. If you have access to a spare key or can contact someone who can bring you a spare key, that would be the easiest solution. If you don’t have access to a spare key, you can call a professional locksmith or your roadside assistance provider. They can help you unlock your car and retrieve your keys, even if it’s late at night.

How much does it cost to call a locksmith to unlock a car?

The cost of calling a locksmith to unlock a car can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of car and the time of day. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 for a professional locksmith to unlock your car. It’s a good idea to call around and get quotes from different locksmiths in your area to find the best price.

What should I do if I accidentally lock my keys in the car?

If you accidentally lock your keys in the car, the first thing you should do is stay calm. Try to assess the situation and see if there are any other entry points available, such as open windows or unlocked doors. If these options are not available, you can try using a coat hanger or a long, slim object to gently pry open the door. However, it is important to note that attempting to unlock the car by yourself may cause damage to the door or the locking mechanism. In such cases, it is recommended to call a professional locksmith to help you retrieve your keys.