How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle
It is not unusual to lock your keys in the vehicle. This could be a stressful experience. This is a situation you can handle.
There are ways to ensure that you don't get locked out in the future, such as storing spare keys somewhere safe and secure. You can also add a roadside service to your vehicle. This will cover breakdowns and assists you in getting back on the road.
Locking the Doors
It's a humiliating moment when you lock your keys in your car. In the best-case scenario there is an acquaintance or family member nearby who can come unlock the door for you, without causing damage to your car. It is still possible to get inside your car using the right tools, even if don't have a friend or family member in the vicinity. The type of vehicle you drive and the locks you have installed inside will determine how easy it will be to get back inside.
If your car's locks are mechanical and not controlled by sensors it is possible to open the doors by using an incredibly thin rod or wire. This might be a wire coat hanger that is bent into the shape of a lasso, or, on newer vehicles, a metal rod that's integrated into the key fob. There are also "lock picking" kits at a variety of hardware stores. They have the rod made of metal and instructions to help you unlock the door of your car.
It is important to first determine the position of the "unlock" button. It is usually located near the key fob or on a wall that is visible through the windshield. Once you've got this information, you can use the rod or coat hanger to create a gap between the car door and its frame or window. Then, you can reach in and press the button to unlock the door.
Another thing to consider is whether your door locks include a release switch that you can press to open them. Some modern automobiles have these switches in the trunk, usually on the side closest to the passenger seats. You can also try using the emergency release tab, which folds the seat down to allow you to crawl into the trunk to grab your keys.
If none of these solutions are working, it's time to contact a professional. You can ask a family member to assist you, if they own the same car as you do. Or you can ask your auto dealer to create a brand new key. You can purchase a new key for a lot less than hiring a locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
The trunk of your car isn't a good option unless you are looking to hide valuables away. It is a great way to keep thieves out of your belongings, it also prevents you from opening the trunk without using your key fob. You can fix this issue by placing a spare car key under the rear bumper well or in the trunk. This isn't foolproof however, and it's easy for thieves to locate however it could deter them from attempting to open your trunk in the first place.
Modern automobiles have gone to great lengths to make sure that trunks can only be opened by someone who has a key fob. To safeguard your possessions, many manufacturers have locked the lever for trunk release inside the cabin or in the back seat. The good news is that you can still save money by using the Slim Jim or calling roadside assistance instead of hiring a locksmith.
You can use a wire hanger try to open the trunk of your vehicle. However, you need to be careful not to damage the paint. You will need to bend the hanger on one end so that it forms hooks. Then, you can insert the hook into the gap between the back of the seat and the trunk. You'll know you've got the right button or lever when you feel a slight resistance.
If you have access to the cab of your vehicle, you could also push a button located in the front cabin to open the trunk. But, this isn't a foolproof method because it is possible for a thief to spot the button and realize that you have valuables in the trunk.
The other option is to use the latch mechanism to open the trunk. This is an easy way to unlock the trunk, but only if you own an automobile that isn't fully charged. You will also need to hear the door locks clicking when you press them. The engine might also have to be running to activate the latch.
Examining the Battery
It is possible that the battery of your key fob is dead if you are unable to unlock the door using any of the methods above. car opening services is that the majority of car fobs have a built-in emergency key that can be used to unlock the driver's door if it is locked. It is usually a separate key that is included in the car or can be located in the glove box or in the center console.
The most frequent reason a car key won't turn on is because of an obstruction in the lock's the cylinder. This could be caused by dirt, grime, or other debris that gets inside the lock and prevents the pins from dropping correctly when you insert the key. You can use compressed air and flashlights to identify any obstructions within the lock cylinder. If you're cautious you can get rid of the obstructions and ensure your key will work in the ignition whenever needed.
Another reason that could cause the car key to not turn the ignition is damage to the cylinder itself. In this situation, it is likely that the lock cylinder is damaged and needs to be replaced. This could be a costly fix, but fortunately, there are ways to temporarily fix the problem.
You can, for example using a wire hook to pry off a small section on the door handle where the key cylinder is. This is not a good idea for those who are new to DIY projects. It isn't easy and may cause damage to your vehicle. Additionally, you should always be sure that the car is completely shut off before attempting any work on it.
Locking your keys accidentally in your car is an unpleasant situation to be in. It is important to remain calm and follow the advice above in order to retrieve keys safely and without causing additional damage to your vehicle. If you are able then, you should inquire with your insurance provider to determine if a key replacement is covered under your policy.
Need Help?
Before you call for help when you have locked your keys in your vehicle, there are a few things you can do. If you have a spare car key home, ask someone to bring it in to unlock your car. You won't have to pay for an emergency locksmith service. You can also contact an acquaintance or family member to find out if he or she has the key. Many people keep spare keys to their cars at work or at home, so they can assist you in case you've locked yourself out. Thirdly, you can contact roadside assistance companies like AAA. They have specialized tools to open cars and can unlock your car at a lower cost than a locksmith. But, they'll need to know your VIN number (visible on the front windshield wiper) and proof of ownership to perform this.
If the emergency is urgent and you have pets or children in your car, call 911 immediately. Police will be dispatched to your location and use specialized equipment or methods to get the animal or child out of the vehicle. This could involve using a jim that is slim to open the door, or breaking the window.
Locking your car keys in your vehicle is not enjoyable, but it could be a minor nuisance in the majority of instances. By following these guidelines, you avoid being left stranded and plan a strategy for the next time it happens.
Drivers can also take other ways to avoid getting stuck in their vehicle in the future. For instance they can download the mobile app of the manufacturer of their vehicle or keep keys in a convenient location outside the vehicle. Moody also suggests that motorists purchase a roadside service plan that includes lockout assistance and contact their car manufacturer to request a replacement key. This will save money over time, since most roadside assistance plans offer lockout assistance.