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

It's not pleasant to be locked keys in car out of your vehicle. But don't panic. Several options are available such as calling an automaker app (like GM's OnStar) or subscribing to a roadside assistance service or leaving a spare key with friends or family members.

You can also prevent lockouts by setting up routines like always making sure you have your wallets inspected and having a place for keys before leaving your vehicle.

Assess the Situation

The first thing to do when you're locked out of your car is assess the situation. Check the weather, time of day, and surroundings to ensure that your safety isn't at risk and that there aren't any other unanticipated issues present.

Based on the situation, you might have some alternatives to get back into your vehicle. If you have an extra key, think about asking a family member to bring it over for you. A lot of modern key finders allow you to track your keys via mobile apps which makes it easier to retrieve keys if you're locked out.

You may require assistance from a professional when you don't have a spare car key, or when you are unable to ask for help. Your safety, as well as the safety of any children or animals that are locked in the vehicle is the most important thing to consider. Don't use force or break the door to open the car.

Instead, you should look for an alternative entry point into the trunk or vehicle. Threading a shoestring through the lock or using an inflatable wedge may create a gap between the door and its frame that you can reach with your arm or tool through. You might also be able to open the trunk of your car with a screwdriver, contingent on your vehicle.

You can also contact your roadside assistance provider to find out whether they offer services for locking keys in the car. While these services can be expensive however, they are more effective than trying to improvise tools or forcing your way into. They are also less likely to cause damage to your vehicle.

It is also important to note that attempting DIY car unlocking techniques can result in physical damage to your vehicle or its security systems. It is also illegal to modify the lock of your car if you don't have the proper credentials. In some instances it may even invalidate your guarantee. These risks should be weighed against the cost of professional assistance.

Need Help?

It's easy to lose your keys in the car and then realize when you return. This harrowing situation could be caused by a lack of attention and putting your keys out of your purse or pocket as you leave the car or even defective locks. But instead of panicking, you should take a moment to think about your options and decide on the best strategy for you.

The first step is to check every single door in your car. You can still open a door even if it is locked with a wire hanger or shoelace (though it may take an extended time and multiple attempts to get these improvised tools into place).

Next, call for help. Moody states that roadside assistance services like AAA are useful when you need to unlock the car that is locked. They are always available and will dispatch an expert as soon as they can. Be aware that it could take half an or more time for someone to arrive.

You can also call an auto-locksmith in your area to help you unlock your vehicle if it's locked out. A professional will be able unlock your vehicle without causing damage to it and can even create an extra key for you should you need it. Some automakers offer smartphones with apps that can be used to unlock your car in the event that you've forgotten the keys inside. Contact the car's manufacturer to see if there is such an app available for your particular model.

It's also worth contacting the towing companies in your area to inquire about their lockout service. Some towing companies specialize in towing, recovery and recovery, but they also have the tools and experience needed to unlock cars.

You might also be able to contact a family member or friend member who has access to the vehicle. You can ask them to bring an extra key. Also, some communities have non-profit organizations or community support services that provide assistance in situations like an auto lockout. These resources can be contacted at no cost or at a minimal cost.

Keep calm

If you find yourself locked out of your vehicle The first thing you need to do is stay calm. Stress can make you forget your perspective however, panicking can make the situation even worse. Breathing deeply and trying to maintain a calm mind will allow you to think clearly, and come up with an answer that works for your situation.

Once you've regained your calm, it is vital to look over the situation and try to determine whether there is an easy way into your vehicle. It is not unusual for people to think they are completely locked out of their car only to realize they left their trunk or a window open while getting ready to leave. A quick tour around the vehicle is a great way to check for any issues.

It is the right time to call for assistance after having assessed the situation. This is the most secure and responsible option, since it guarantees that an expert with the appropriate tools will arrive quickly. Many roadside assistance companies have websites or apps that can connect you with locksmiths in your area who are equipped to handle car lockouts safely and effectively.

Be careful not to damage your vehicle if you opt to DIY. There are many different hacks and tricks you can find on the internet but the majority aren't safe or effective for modern cars. A lot of these tricks can cause permanent or even catastrophic damage to your car's security system, so it is best to leave this kind of work to professionals.

After your car lockout issue has been resolved, you must consider taking precautions. You can avoid lockouts in the future by keeping a spare key in the possession of a family member or trusted friend, or by making use of technology like key finders. Regularly scheduled maintenance and checks of your vehicle will minimize the chances that you'll be locked out. Follow these steps to avoid the frustration of a car locking out, and leave knowing you handled it responsibly.

Take Preventive Measures

You can lessen the risk of locking your keys in your car by following a few easy steps. A spare key along with a routine and a technology can assist you in avoiding car lockouts.

If you have a spare storage space, put it in a location that is easily accessible. This way, you'll be able to quickly access your vehicle when the need arises.

Before calling for help You should check all the trunks and doors to ensure that your keys aren't locked. Additionally, it's a good idea to inform a trusted friend or family member of the situation so that they can keep an eye on you while you wait for help. This is a good safety measure that will help you remain calm while waiting for assistance.

Many people lock themselves out of their car because they have forgotten or misplaced their keys. One solution to this issue is to establish a routine. Each time you are planning to get out of your car, repeat a short phrase or chant that contains all the things you'll need with you. You'll be less likely to forget your keys by doing this, particularly if you are in rush or distracted.

Another reason that causes car lockouts is the attempt to force entry into the vehicle with the proper tools. The coat hanger trick and the shoelace method are common methods that can damage your car. In the event of an emergency, for instance, when a pet or child are trapped inside, you may need to break the window.

In most situations, locking yourself out of your vehicle is not an emergency. It can be resolved by following a few simple steps. By assessing your surroundings and remaining calm, as well as calling a professional such as Lithonia Towing, you can reduce the stress and anger that comes with this scenario. Preventive measures, a spare car key, and modern technology can help you get through a lockout.