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

Being locked out of your car can be a pain. But don't panic. Several options are available, including calling an automaker app (like GM's OnStar), subscribing to a roadside assistance service or leaving an extra key with your family or friends.

You can also prevent lockouts by creating routines, like checking your pockets before leaving the vehicle and locating an appropriate place to keep your keys.

Assess the Situation

The first thing you should do when locked out of your car is assess the situation. Be sure to check the weather, time of day, and surroundings to make sure that your safety isn't in danger and that there are no other unexpected issues are in the vicinity.

Based on the circumstances You may have several options for getting back in your vehicle. Ask someone in your family or a close friend to give you an extra key in case you have one. Many modern key finders also allow you to track your keys through a mobile application, making it easier to find them when you're locked out.

If you don't have a spare key or if it's too late to ask someone for help, you may need to seek professional assistance. The most important consideration is your safety and that of any children or pets that are also locked in the vehicle. Don't try to open the door or use aggressive methods that could damage your vehicle.

Instead, look for an alternative entrance point into the trunk or vehicle. Stringing a shoestring through the lock or using an inflatable wedge could create an opening between the door and the door frame that you can reach with your arm or tool through. Depending on the model of your vehicle you may be capable of opening the trunk using an screwdriver.

You can also call your roadside assistance provider to inquire about services for unlocking keys in cars. While these services can be expensive but they are usually more effective than trying to come up with improvised tools or forcing your way into. They are less likely to cause damage to your vehicle.

It is also important to remember that trying DIY unlocking techniques for your car could cause physical damage to your vehicle or its security systems. It is also illegal to modify a car lock without the proper credentials, and in certain circumstances, it may cause the loss of your warranty. The risk of not seeking professional assistance must be considered in relation to their cost.

Need Help?

It's easy to forget your keys in the car, only to then discover it upon returning. This frustrating situation can be caused by a lack of attention or putting your keys in your purse or pocket as you leave the car, or even having faulty locks. But instead of panicking, take a few moments to assess your options and choose the best plan of action.

The first step is to check each of the doors in your vehicle. If the doors are locked they can still be opened one of them using a shoelace or wire hanger (though it will likely take a long time and numerous attempts to get these tools to the right place).

Next, call for assistance. Roadside assistance services like AAA can be lifesaver when getting out of a car locked, Moody says. They are available 24/7 and will dispatch an expert as quickly as they are able. Be aware that it could take half an hour or more for someone to arrive.

In addition to roadside assistance, you can seek out a local auto locksmith to help you unlock the problem of a car that is locked out. A professional will be able unlock your car without damaging it, and can even make an additional key for you in case of need. Certain automakers have smartphones that allow you to unlock your car if you've lost the keys inside. Check with your car's manufacturer to find out if there's such an app available for the model you have.

It is also worth contacting local towing companies to inquire about their lockout services. Although they typically specialize in towing and recovery but some also have the tools and know-how to open the door without key to unlock vehicles as well.

You could also contact a friend or family member who has access to the vehicle. Be sure to ask them to bring a spare key. Some communities also have non-profit organizations or community support services that offer assistance in situations like a car lockout. These organizations can be reached at no cost or at a cost.

Keep calm

Stay calm when you are locked out of your vehicle. Frustration can make you forget your perspective however, panicking can make the situation more difficult. Breathe deeply to keep your mind on track and come up with the solution.

After you have regained composure After regaining your composure, you should look at the situation to see if there are any easy ways to get inside your car. It is not unusual for people to think that they are locked out of their vehicle only to discover that they had left the trunk or window open when they were getting ready to leave. A quick lap around the car is a great way to check for issues.

It is time to seek help after assessing the situation. This is the most responsible and secure option, since it ensures that someone with the proper tools will arrive quickly. Many roadside assistance companies have websites or apps that can connect you to locksmiths in your area who are well-equipped to handle car lockouts in a safe manner and efficiently.

Be careful not to harm your vehicle when you decide to DIY. You can find many tricks and hacks online, but they are not suitable or safe for modern cars. A lot of these tricks can cause irreparable or even devastating damage to your vehicle'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 take preventive measures. You can avoid future lockouts by keeping a spare key lockout service in the possession of a trusted family member or friend, or by using technology like key finders. Regular maintenance and routine vehicle checks can also reduce the likelihood that you'll find yourself in a lockout situation. Follow these steps to avoid the annoyance of a vehicle locking out, and then drive away with the knowledge that you've done it in a responsible manner.

Take Preventive Action

You can reduce the risk of locking your keys in your car by following a few simple steps. Having a spare key on hand, following a routine, and making use of technology can help prevent car lockouts.

If you own an extra storage space, put it in a place where it is easy to locate. This will allow you to quickly access your vehicle when the need arises.

Before calling for help, you should test all the doors and trunks to make sure that your keys aren't locked. It is also recommended to tell your trusted family member or friend of the situation, so that they can keep an eye on your situation while you wait for help. This is a safety measure, and it can also help you stay calm as you wait for help.

In many instances people are locked out of their cars due to misplacing or forgetting their keys. To solve this problem you can establish an established routine. Each time you are about to leave your car open service and you are about to leave, repeat a few words or chant that contains everything you'll need to bring with you. By doing this, you'll be less likely to misplace your keys, particularly if you're in a rush or distracted.

Another common cause of car lockouts is trying to force entry into the vehicle lock out without the proper tools. The coat hanger trick as well as the shoelace method are two common methods that can damage your vehicle. In the event of an emergency, such as when a pet or child are trapped in the vehicle, you might need to break a window.

In the majority of cases, being locked out of the vehicle isn't an emergency and can be resolved with a few simple steps. By taking a look around, staying calm, and reaching out to professionals such as Lithonia Towing, you can reduce the stress and anger that can result from this situation. Making preventive steps and having a spare key at your side, and utilizing technology to your advantage can all assist you in dealing with a car lockout quickly and efficiently.