Car lockouts happen more often than most people realize. And while it’s a lousy feeling to realize you locked your keys in the car, there are some things you can do to help yourself out. Some automakers also offer roadside assistance that includes a lockout service. Check your car manufacturer’s website to find out if this is an option for you.
Get a spare key
The best way to avoid getting locked out of your car is by always keeping a spare key on you. However, if you do not have a spare, or if yours is lost or stolen, there are still ways to get into your car without calling a locksmith. These methods may not be as reliable or as safe as calling a professional locksmith, but they can save you a lot of stress and money in the long run.
If you have a power door lock, try using a rod or a straightened wire clothes hanger to pry open a space between the top of one of the doors and the body of the car. Then, use the rod or hanger to slide or depress the door-lock flipper or button to unlock the car. You can also check your insurance policy to see if roadside assistance or car lockout services are covered.
Call for help
If you are unable to unlock your car on your own, call for help. This is especially important if there are small children or vulnerable people inside of your vehicle. You may need to borrow a phone from a friend or relative so that you can make the call. A reputable roadside assistance program or auto wrecker will have a variety of specialty wedge and long-reach tools to help you break into your car. They will also be able to offer you a safer space to wait while they work on getting your car open. It is better to stay safe and warm than to linger outside during inclement weather. This can also prevent lightning strikes or other dangerous conditions from occurring. They will work with you to figure out the best way to get your car unlocked, regardless of the weather.
Stay safe
We’ve all been there before – you run out of the house and slam the car door so fast that your keys are still inside. Getting locked out of your vehicle is annoying at best and stressful at worst, but it’s something that can be easily avoided with a few simple changes to your driving habits.
The most obvious way to avoid a car lockout is to keep a spare key handy. This can be as simple as giving a copy of your car key to a friend or family member for safekeeping, or even hiding it in the garage or on the property. It’s also a good idea to get in the habit of always placing your keys on a sturdy and visible key chain or loop, so you can’t accidentally forget them in the ignition.
Getting locked out of your car can be dangerous, especially if you have young children or pets in the vehicle. In these situations, it’s important to stay calm and find a safe place for shelter. If possible, try to borrow a phone from someone if you have locked yours in the car, as this will help you call for assistance. It’s also a good idea if you can to stay in your vehicle during inclement weather, as it’s safer than standing outside.
Another option is to contact a roadside assistance service or dealership, but this can be costly. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may have to pay for a replacement key fob, which can cost up to several hundred dollars. You can also check your phone for remote assistance services, which can allow you to unlock your car from the comfort of your own home. Many automakers offer these services as a part of their mobile app, and they can often be used for free with your membership in an automotive club like AAA. However, you should make sure to check with your automaker and dealer to see if they’re available in your area.
Call a locksmith
Car lockout services are available from professional locksmiths who specialize in car door unlocking. This service can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. For example, if you have small children or elderly relatives locked inside your vehicle and you don’t have a spare key to get them out, a locksmith can come quickly to rescue them. They will also open the doors of your car for you if you have forgotten to take your keys with you when leaving the house.
You can find a locksmith by checking online listings, using the yellow pages, or asking friends and neighbors for recommendations. Regardless of which method you choose, it is important to hire a reputable locksmith that has been in business for some time. A locksmith should have insurance and be licensed and bonded. Additionally, they should have the right tools and equipment to get you back into your vehicle without damaging it or yourself.
Many automakers offer roadside assistance programs that can help you during a lockout. For instance, if you have a membership with the American Automobile Association (AAA), they can send a locksmith to your location to unlock your vehicle. Other automakers have smartphone apps that can help you with a lockout. You should check the website of your vehicle manufacturer to see if they offer such an app.
Attempting to break into your car by using improvised tools such as a bent coat hanger, bobby pins, or slim jims can cause damage and may even result in the alarm going off. Moreover, such improvised tools can cause injury to you and your passengers. Besides, using these tools could lead to a higher repair bill.
Aside from providing car lockout Washington DC services, locksmiths can also help you with car key programming and ignition repair. They can also provide you with a replacement key at an affordable price. Moreover, they can offer you the convenience of being able to call them at any time.