How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle
It is not unusual to lock your keys inside the vehicle. This could be a stressful experience. This is a scenario you can handle.
There are ways to avoid getting locked out in the future, including having spare keys stored somewhere safe and secure. You can also add roadside assistance to your vehicle, which will cover breakdowns and assists drivers in getting back on track.
Locking the Doors
It's a humiliating moment when you lock your keys in your car. In the best-case scenario you've got someone from your family or a friend nearby who can open the door for you without causing damage to your vehicle. If not, it could still be relatively simple to get back inside your vehicle using the proper tools. The type of vehicle you use and the locks you have installed inside will determine the ease to get back inside.
For instance, if your vehicle has manual locks instead of sensors, you could make use of a rod or wire to unlock the doors. You can use a wire coathanger bent into a lasso-like shape or, in newer automobiles, the rod is integrated into the key fob. You can also find "lock picking" kits in a variety of hardware stores. They have the metal rod and instructions to help you unlock your car's doors.
To use this method, you have be aware of the location where the "unlock" switch is located. It could be on the key fob, or it could be on a panel in the front of the vehicle that is visible from the windshield. Once you have this information you can utilize the rod or coat hanger to create an opening between the car's door and its frame or window. Then, you can go inside and press the button.
The other thing to check is whether your door locks come with a release switch that you can push to open them. Some modern vehicles have them in the trunk, typically on the side closest to the seats. You can also utilize the emergency release tab to fold down the seat and crawl into the trunk.
If none of these methods are working, it's time to call for help. You might consider enlisting the help of a friend who owns the same make and model as your vehicle or ask your auto dealer to cut you a new key. You can purchase an additional key for a lot less than if you hired a locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
It's not a great idea to lock the trunk of your vehicle unless you want to conceal valuables. While it is ideal to ensure that thieves aren't able to access your possessions, it hinders opening the trunk without your key fob. However, you can get around this problem by placing a spare key in the rear fender well or on the floor of the trunk. This method is not foolproof and is easily discovered by thieves, but it can help to deter thieves from attempting to open your trunk.
Modern automobiles have made great lengths to ensure that only the key fob is able to open the trunk. Many manufacturers have put the lever for opening the trunk in the cabin or the back seat to safeguard your valuables. You can still save money if you use a Slim Jim, or call roadside assistance instead of hiring a locksmith.
You can use a wire hanger try and open the trunk of your vehicle. However, you need to be careful not to damage the paint job. You will also need to bend the hanger at one end so that it has the size of a hook. After that, slide the hook into the space between the back of the seat and the trunk. If you are able to feel resistance, you have located the lever or button that opens the trunk.
You can also open the trunk if have access to the front cabin. This is done by pressing a button located inside the cabin. This method isn't foolproof because a thief could see the button and be aware that your valuables are inside the trunk.
The other method involves using the latch mechanism to open the trunk. This is an easy way to unlock the trunk, but only if you own a car that is not fully charged. It is also necessary to hear the door locks clicking when you press them. The engine might also have to be running in order to activate the latch.
Checking the Battery
If you are unable to unlock the doors by using any of the methods described above, it's possible that you simply have a dead battery on your key fob. The good news is that most key fobs come with an emergency key that can be used to unlock the door of the driver if it is locked. This is usually an additional key that comes with the vehicle or it could be found in the center console or glove compartment.
Most often there is a blockage in the lock's cylinder can be the reason why keys don't work in the ignition. Dirt or grime, as well as other debris could cause this issue. It blocks the pins to drop correctly when you insert your key. A flashlight and compressed air are both excellent tools to locate any obstructions in the lock cylinder. If you're cautious you can clear the debris and ensure that your key is working in the ignition when needed.
Damage to the cylinder may cause a car to not start. In this case it is likely that the lock cylinder has been damaged and needs to be replaced. This can be a costly repair, however, there are ways to fix the issue temporarily.
For instance, you could use a wire hanger pry away a small section of trim on the door handle or on the panel where the key cylinder is situated. However, this technique is not recommended if you don't have a lot of experience working on DIY projects, since it is difficult to do and may cause damage to your vehicle. It is also important that you shut off the vehicle completely before beginning any work.
Accidentally locking your keys in your car can be an embarrassing situation to find yourself in. Be calm and follow the above steps to safely retrieve your keys without causing further damage to your car. You should also examine your insurance policy to determine if the replacement of keys is covered.
Need Help?
There are a few things you need to do prior to calling for help if you've locked your keys in your car. First, if you're at home and have an extra key, have someone bring it to you and unlock your car that way. This will help you avoid having to pay a locksmith for an emergency service call. You can also contact an acquaintance or family member to see if he or has the key. A lot of people have a spare key in their home or at work, so they can help you out in case you are locked out of your vehicle. Thirdly, call roadside assistance services such as AAA. They have kits specifically designed to unlock vehicles and will be in a position to open your car at a lower cost than a locksmith would charge. However, they will require your VIN number (visible in front of the windshield wiper) and proof of ownership in order to be able to do this.
Call 911 immediately if are in a crisis and have a pet or a child in your vehicle. Police will be dispatched to your location and use specialized tools or methods to safely get the animal or child out of the vehicle. This could include using a slim-jim to break a window or to open the car door.
It's never enjoyable to lock your keys in your car, but in most instances, it's only an inconvenience that isn't too significant. Following these tips will help you avoid being stranded and make a plan for the next time it happens.
Drivers can take additional steps to avoid being stuck in their vehicle in the future. For example you can download the app from their vehicle manufacturer or keep the spare key in a safe location outside the vehicle. Additionally, i lock my keys in the car recommends that drivers contact their manufacturer to obtain the replacement of their key and purchase a roadside assistance plan that covers lockout assistance. This will save you money in the long run, since getting locked out of your car is almost always covered by this kind of insurance.