Locked Out of Your Car – What To Do

You know the feeling: you lock your car door and realize, just as it snaps shut, that your keys are still inside! It’s a moment that feels as though it  moves in slow motion.

The experience of locking yourself out of your car is incredibly stressful. There are numerous complications that arise from the situation. Countless things that could go wrong if you are not prepared. After all, very few of us carry a set of locksmithing tools around in our everyday lives. Here we have put together some information to help you if you find yourself locked out of your car.  

Who to Call When Locked Out of My Car? 

There are a few less dramatic techniques to gain entry to your car without bringing unwanted attention to yourself. In most circumstances, this entails requesting assistance. There are a few people you can call if you find yourself in this situation. 

• Family or friends – Keeping a spare key with a family member or close friend can save lots of headaches.
• A locksmith – A locksmith can come to you with the tools needed and help you get into your car in no time. If you do not have a spare key, this is a great option! 
• Emergency Services – This is an option only if you have accidentally locked a child or your beloved pet in your car. Do not call emergency services unless someone is in direct danger.
• Towing Company – Many towing companies can assist you in unlocking your vehicle. As a bonus, if they are unable to open the vehicle they can tow you to a shop that can.
• Roadside Assistance – A lockout is a fairly common occurrence. Don’t be afraid to contact your roadside assistance provider. In the United States, most service providers also include roadside assistance as part of their package. 

Ways to Unlock Your Car If You are Unable to Call Someone 

• Use a Hanger – Easily straighten the hanger and place it between the window and the rubber cover located on the door. Latch the lock and pull it upwards to unlock it by angling it downwards.
• Use your Code – If you drive a vehicle that has a keypad entry system. Simply input your code and, with a touch of a button, you’ll be back inside your car. 
• Use your Phone as a Key – Many modern cars are equipped with smartphone capabilities in addition to remote help services. It’s a pricey feature, but it can transform your smartphone into a spare car key with just an app.

What Not to Do When Locked Out 

• Break the window – This should not be done unless you have tried absolutely everything else in your power to unlock your car. If you are in a situation where your child or pet is locked in the car, breaking the glass could cause them to have a significant injury.
• Wedge the door open – Some people attempt to wedge the door open with things such as a screwdriver. This will only cause more significant damage to your car which will also leave you with an expensive bill to pay.

How to Prevent Future Lockouts 

• Lock your Door from the Outside – If your key is still inside, some automobiles will not lock. However, physically locking the door while you are inside the vehicle may override this feature. To avoid getting your keys stuck inside, make it a habit of locking your door from the outside.  
• Make a Spare Key – It’s also a good idea to keep a spare key on hand in case you are locked outside of your car. To avoid the stress of being in that situation, make sure you have a spare set of keys made before you actually need it. As mentioned earlier, keep the spare with a family member or close friend for easier access in emergencies.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, you’d be better off calling an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance for help. Even a towing service may have the gear and know-how to access your automobile without causing damage. The expense of this ease of mind is certainly worth it. Just make sure to clarify your problem ahead of time so that they know what equipment to bring for your situation. It is also important for you to remember to check all doors as well as your trunk to ensure that you really are locked out before calling for help.