10 Undisputed Reasons People Hate Keys Locked In Vehicle
How to Deal With how to unlock your car in Your Vehicle
It is not uncommon to lock your keys inside the vehicle. This can be a stressful situation. However this is a scenario that can be resolved.
You can avoid being locked out by keeping spare keys in a safe and secure location. You can also add a roadside service to your vehicle. This helps with breakdowns and can help you get back on the road.
Locking the Doors
When you lock your keys inside your car, it can be embarrassing. If you're fortunate, someone from your family or a friend is close enough to open the car door without causing any damage. It is still possible to get inside your car with the right tools, even if don't have a friend or family member nearby. It all depends on the type of vehicle you drive and the kind of locks installed in it.
If the locks on your car are not operated by sensors you can open the doors with the help of a rod or wire. You can use a coathanger wire bent into a lasso shape or, in newer vehicles, the metal rod that is built into your key fob. A lot of hardware stores offer "lock picking" sets which include a rod made of metal and instructions for unlocking your car's doors.
To use this method, you need be aware of where the "unlock" switch is located. It is usually located on the key fob or on a piece of paper that is visible through the windshield. Once you have this information, use an iron rod or coat hanger in order to create a gap between the car's door and the window or frame. You can then reach inside and press the button.
Check to see if your door locks are equipped with a release button that you can press to open them. Some of the more recent vehicles have them in the trunk, usually on the side closest to the passenger seats. You can also try the emergency release tab which folds the seat down so that you can crawl into the trunk to take your keys.
If none of these solutions work, you need to seek help. You might want to enlist the help of a friend who owns the same make and model as your car, or ask your auto dealer to cut you a new one. You can get an additional key for less than if you hired locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
It's not a great idea to lock the trunk of your car unless you are trying to hide valuables. While it's a great way to keep thieves away from your belongings, it also prevents you from opening the trunk without your key fob. But, you can work around this issue by concealing a spare key under the rear fender well, or on the floor of the trunk. This method is not foolproof and is easily discovered by thieves, however it could deter thieves from opening your trunk.
Modern cars have made great efforts to ensure that only the key fob can unlock the trunk. Many manufacturers have put the lever to open the trunk either in the cabin or on the back seat to protect your valuables. You can still save money by choosing to make use of the Slim Jim, or call roadside assistance instead of hiring locksmith.
You can use a wire hanger attempt to open the trunk of your vehicle. Be careful to avoid damaging the paintwork. You'll need bend the hanger at one end, so that it forms hooks. After that, slide the hook into the space between the back of the seat and the trunk. You'll know you've got the right button or lever if you feel a slight resistance.
If you have access to the cab of the car, you may also push a button located in the front cabin to open the trunk. However, this is not a 100% secure method since it is possible for thieves to spot the button and realize that you have valuables in the trunk.
The other method involves unlocking the trunk with the latch mechanism. This is an easy method to accomplish this however it only works when your car isn't fully charged and you hear the door locks click when you press them. The engine might also have to be running to activate the latch.
Checking the Battery
It is possible that your key fob battery is dead if you are unable to open the door by any of the methods listed above. Most car fobs come with an emergency key that can be used to unlock the driver's door if locked. This is usually an additional key that was included with the vehicle or can be located in the glove box or center console.
The most frequent reason the car key won't turn in the ignition is due to an obstruction in the lock cylinder. Dirt, grime, or other debris may cause this issue. It hinders the pins from dropping correctly when you insert your key. A flashlight and compressed air are both excellent tools to identify any obstructions within the lock cylinder. If you're careful you can get rid of the debris and make sure your key will work when you need it.
Damage to the cylinder could also cause a car to not start. In this case the lock cylinder is likely damaged and needs to be replaced. This could be a costly repair however there are options to temporarily solve this problem.
For instance, you could make use of a wire hanger to pry away a small section of trim on the door handle or panel where the key cylinder is situated. This is not a good idea for those who are brand new to DIY projects. It can be difficult and may cause damage to your vehicle. You should also make sure that you shut off the vehicle completely prior to beginning any work.
It can be very frustrating to accidentally lock your keys in your car. Be calm and follow the above guidelines to retrieve your keys safely without damaging your car. If you can, you should also inquire with your insurance provider to see if key replacement is covered under your policy.
Calling for Help
Before calling for help if you lock your keys inside your vehicle, there are a few things you can do. First, if you are at home and have a spare key, have someone bring it to you and then unlock your vehicle that way. This will save you from having to pay an emergency locksmith service call. Second, try a friend or family member's phone to find out whether they have the keys. Many people will keep a spare key in their home or at work, so they can help you out when you're locked out of your vehicle. Third, call roadside assistance providers such as AAA. They have tools specifically designed to open cars and are able to open yours at a much lower cost than locksmiths. But, they'll require your VIN number (visible near the front windshield wiper) and evidence of ownership to perform this.
If the situation is urgent and you have pets or children in your vehicle, dial 911 immediately. The police will be sent to your location to safely remove the animal or child from the vehicle. This could involve using an ice-breaker to break a window or to open the door to the car.
It's not enjoyable to lock your keys in your car, but in many instances, it's only an inconvenience of a minor nature. Following these tips will help you avoid being stuck and make a plan for the next time it happens.
Drivers can also take measures to avoid getting stuck in their cars in the future, like downloading the app of their car manufacturer or keeping a spare key in a safe place outside the vehicle, such as a magnetic safe underneath the vehicle or on the driver's side of the trunk. Additionally, Moody recommends that drivers contact their manufacturer to obtain the replacement of their key and buy a roadside assistance plan which covers lockout assistance. This could save you money in the long run as being locked out of your vehicle is usually covered by this kind of coverage.