What to Do When You're Locked Out of Your Car

Being locked out of your vehicle is an inconvenience. But don't panic. There are several options to choose from, including calling an automaker app (like GM's OnStar), subscribing to a roadside assistance provider or leaving a spare key with your family or friends.

You can also stop lockouts by creating routines such as always making sure you have your wallets inspected and having the location for keys prior to leaving your vehicle.

Assess the Situation

The first thing to do when locked out of your car is take a look at the situation. Examine the weather, the time of day, and surroundings to make sure that your safety isn't in danger and that there are there aren't any other unanticipated issues there.

You may have a few options depending on the situation. If you have a spare key, consider asking a family member to carry it over for you. A lot of modern key finders allow you to track your keys using mobile apps, making it easier to locate them when you're locked out.

If you don't have a spare key, or if you are too late to ask for help, you may need to call for professional assistance. Your safety and that of any children or animals that are locked in the vehicle is the most important thing to take into consideration. Do not use force or break the door to open the car.

Instead, look for an alternative entrance point into the car or trunk. You can create a gap by threading a shoestring or inflatable wedge through the lock. This will allow you to extend your arm into the gap. Depending on the model of your vehicle you may also be in a position to open the trunk with a screwdriver.

You may also inquire with your roadside assistance provider to see whether they have services for locking keys inside the car. Although these services can be expensive but they are usually more effective than attempting to make your own tools or forcing your way in. They are less likely to cause damage to your vehicle.

In addition, it's important to remember that trying DIY car unlocking techniques can cause physical damage to your vehicle or security systems. It can also be illegal to alter the lock of your car without appropriate credentials, and in some circumstances, it may end your warranty. These risks should be weighed against the cost of professional assistance.

Call for Help

It's all too easy to return to your car only to find that you've locked your keys inside. This frustrating situation can result from being uninformed and putting your keys out of your purse or pocket when you exit the car, or even defective locks. Instead of panicking, take a moment to think about your options and determine the best course of action.

The first thing you should do is inspect every door inside your car. If the doors are not locked you can still open one of them by using wire hanger or a shoelace (though it may take a long time and numerous attempts to get these tools to the right place).

Next, contact for assistance. Moody says that roadside assistance services like AAA are useful when trying to unlock the car that's locked. They are always available and will dispatch an expert as quickly as they are able. Just be aware that it may take a half hour or more to arrive.

You can also call an auto lock out locksmith in your area to unlock your vehicle if locked out. A skilled professional can unlock your car without damaging it and can provide you with an additional key in the event of need. Certain automakers have smartphone apps which you can use to unlock your car if you forget the keys. Contact the car's manufacturer to find out if there's an app that works with the model you have.

It is also worth contacting local towing companies about their lockout services. While they usually specialize in towing and recovery however, some do have the tools and know-how to unlock vehicles as well.

You may also be able contact a family member or friend member who has access to the vehicle. Request them to bring an extra key. Some communities have non profit organizations or community support services who can assist in times such as the lockout of your car. You can reach these organizations for assistance at no cost or for a minimal cost.

Stay calm

If you find yourself locked from your vehicle, the first thing to do is to remain calm. The stress of being frustrated can cloud your judgment, but panicking will only make the situation worse. Relax and breathe deeply to help you keep your head clear and find the solution.

Once you have regained your confidence, it is crucial to assess the situation and determine whether there is a simple way to get into your vehicle. It is not uncommon for people to think that they are locked out of their car only to realize they had left the trunk or a window unlocked as they were getting ready to leave. A quick run around the vehicle is an effective way to look for such issues.

It is time to seek assistance after assessing the situation. This is the most secure and most responsible choice, since it guarantees that a locksmith with the right tools will be on the scene shortly. Many roadside assistance companies have websites or apps that can connect you with locksmiths in your area who are equipped to handle car lockouts efficiently and efficiently.

Be careful not to harm your vehicle if you decide to DIY. There are a myriad of hacks and tricks you can find online, but most of them aren't safe or effective for modern cars. Many of these hacks can cause permanent or even irreparable damage to your car's security system, so it is best to leave this kind of work to experts.

Once your car lockout problem has been resolved it is a good idea to consider ways to prevent it from happening again. The idea of keeping a spare key with a trusted friend or family member or using technology such as key finders, can help you avoid a future lockout service car. Regularly checking the maintenance and condition of your vehicle can also minimize the chances that you will find yourself in a lockout situation. If you follow these suggestions you can avoid the stress and frustration of a car lockout, and drive away happy knowing that you've handled it in a responsible way.

Take Preventive Action

The chances of locking your keys in your car are high, but you can take steps to lessen the risk. A spare key along with a routine and a technology can aid you in avoiding car lockouts.

If you have a spare, keep it in a safe place that is easy to locate. This way, you'll be able to access your vehicle quickly whenever the need arises.

It is also advisable to check the doors and trunk to ensure that your keys aren't locked in the trunk prior to calling for help. It is also recommended to tell a trusted family member or a friend of the situation, so that they can keep an eye on you while you are waiting for assistance. This is a security measure, and can also help you to stay calm while waiting for assistance.

Many people have to lock themselves out of their car because they have forgotten or misplaced their keys. A simple fix for this issue is to establish an established routine. Repeat a short phrase, or chant, that consists of everything you'll need to bring with you each time you're getting ready to get out of your car. By doing this you'll be less likely to lose your keys, particularly if you're in a rush or distracted.

Another common cause of car lockouts is to gain access into the vehicle without proper tools. Various methods, such as the coat hanger trick, or the shoelace method, are commonly employed, but they can cause damage to your vehicle. In an emergency situation, such as if a child or pet are stuck inside, you may have to break a window.

In most cases, locking yourself out of your car is not an emergency. It can be solved by following a few simple steps. By taking a look around and staying calm, as well as calling a professional such as Lithonia Towing, you can get rid of the stress and anxiety that comes with this scenario. Preventive measures, a spare car key, and technology can assist you in resolving a lockout.