How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle

It is not uncommon to lock your keys inside the vehicle. This can be a stressful scenario. But this is a situation that can be resolved.

There are ways to prevent getting locked out in the future, which includes having spare left keys in car stored somewhere safe and secure. You can also include a roadside service to your vehicle. This helps with breakdowns and can help you get back on the road.

Locking the Doors

It's a humiliating moment when you lock your keys inside your car. In the ideal scenario you've got a friend or family member nearby who can open the door for you without causing damage to your vehicle. If not, it could still be relatively simple to gain access back to your vehicle using the appropriate tools. The kind of vehicle you drive and the locks that are installed in it will determine how easy it will be to get back inside.

For example, if your car has manual locks rather than sensors, you could make use of a rod or wire to unlock the doors. It could be a 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. Many hardware stores offer "lock picking" sets with a rod of metal and instructions to unlock car keys inside your car's doors.

To make use of this method, you need to identify where the "unlock" switch is located. It can be found on the key fob or on a wall visible through the windscreen. Once you know the location, use a rod or coat hanger to create a space between the car's door and the frame or window. Then you can open the door and press the button to unlock the door.

Make sure that your door locks are equipped with a release button that you can press to open them. A few of the latest automobiles have these switches in the trunk, usually on the side closest to the seats. You could also try the emergency release tab that folds down the seat so that you can crawl into the trunk to take your keys.

If none of these solutions work, then you'll need to seek assistance. You might want to enlist the help of a family member who owns the same model and model as your car or ask your auto dealer to cut you a new one. You can obtain the new key for much less than hiring locksmith.

Locking the Trunk

The trunk of your car is not a good idea unless you need to keep valuables safe. While it's ideal to keep thieves away from your stuff, it also prevents you from opening the trunk without your key fob. However, you can get 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, but it can help to stop thieves from attempting to open your trunk.

Modern cars have gone to extreme lengths to ensure that their trunks can only be opened by those who has a key fob. In order to protect your possessions, many manufacturers have locked the lever for trunk release in the cabin or the back seat. You can still save money by choosing to use the Slim Jim, or call roadside assistance instead of hiring a locksmith.

You can use a wire hanger to attempt to open the trunk of your vehicle. But, you must be careful not to damage the paint. You'll need to bend the hanger on one end so that it has hooks. Then, insert the hook between the trunk and the back of the seat. If you are able to feel resistance, you have located the lever or button that opens the trunk.

If you have access to the cab of your vehicle, you could also use a push button that is located in the front cabin to open the trunk. However, this is not an absolute security measure since it is possible for thieves to look at the button and know that you have valuables in the trunk.

Another method is to open the trunk by using the latch mechanism. This is a straightforward method to accomplish this however it only works in the event that your car is not fully charged and you can hear the door locks clicking when you press them. The engine may also need to be running in order to activate the latch.

Examining the Battery

If you're unable to open the doors by using any of the methods mentioned above, it's possible that you have a dead battery on your key fob. The good news is that the majority of car fobs have a built-in emergency key that can be used to unlock the door for the driver when it is locked. This is typically a separate key that was included in the car or can be found in the glove box or center console.

Usually there is a blockage in the lock's cylinder can be the reason why a key won't work in the ignition. Dirt or grime or other debris may cause this issue. It hinders the pins from dropping properly when you insert your key. A flashlight and compressed air are both excellent tools to find any obstructions in the lock cylinder. If you are careful, you can remove the debris and ensure your key will function when you need it.

Damage to the cylinder can also cause a car not turn on. In this case it is likely the lock cylinder is damaged and requires replacement. This could be a costly repair, but there are ways to temporarily solve this problem.

For example, you can use a wire hanger take off a small portion of trim on the door handle or panel where the key cylinder is situated. However, this technique is not recommended if you don't have a lot of experience with DIY projects, since it can be difficult to complete and could harm your vehicle. In addition, you should always ensure that the car is completely turned off before attempting any work on it.

It can be very frustrating to lock your keys accidentally in your car opener service. It is important to remain calm and follow the above guidelines to safely retrieve your keys without damaging your vehicle. It is also advisable to check your insurance policy to see whether the replacement of keys is covered.

Calling for Help

There are a few things you should do before you call for help if you've locked your Keys Locked In Vehicle in your car. If you have an extra car key at home and you need someone to bring it, ask them to bring it to unlock your car. You won't have to pay for an emergency locksmith service. Second, try the number of a family member or friend's phone to see whether they have the key. Many people have spare car keys at home or work to help when you've locked yourself in. Thirdly, call roadside assistance providers like AAA. They have special kits to unlock vehicles and will be capable of opening your vehicle at a lower cost than locksmiths would cost. However, they will require 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 inside your vehicle, call 911 immediately. They will send police to your location and employ specific tools or methods to remove the animal or child out of the vehicle. This could include using an ice-breaker to break a window, or even open the door of the car.

Locking your car keys in your vehicle is not enjoyable, but it can be a minor issue in the majority of instances. By following these guidelines, you avoid being stranded and make a plan for the next time it happens.

Drivers can also take steps to prevent being stuck in their cars in the future, like downloading the app of their car manufacturer or keeping a spare key in a safe location outside the vehicle, like an electronic safe under the vehicle or on the driver's side of the trunk. Moody also recommends that motorists purchase a roadside assistance plan that provides lockout assistance and contact the manufacturer of their vehicle to obtain a replacement key. This can save you money in the long run, as being locked out of your car is almost always covered by this type of insurance.