How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle
Locking keys in the car is a common occurrence, and it can cause an anxious feeling. This is a scenario that you can deal with.
There are ways to prevent getting locked out in the future, including having spare keys stored somewhere safe and secure. You can also include roadside assistance to your vehicle, which can help with breakdowns and assists drivers in getting back on their way.
Locking the Doors
It can be an embarrassing moment when you lock your keys in your car. In the ideal scenario you've got an acquaintance or family member close by who can unlock the door for you without damaging your vehicle. It is possible to gain access to your vehicle with the proper tools, even if you don't have a friend or family member nearby. The kind of vehicle you drive and the locks installed inside will determine how easy it is to get back inside.
If your car's locks are mechanical and not controlled by sensors it is possible to open the doors with the help of a rod or wire. It could be a coat hanger that you bend into the shape of a lasso or on vehicles with more modern technology, a metal rod that's integrated into the key fob. A lot of hardware stores offer "lock picking" sets with a rod of metal and instructions to open your car's door.
First, you must determine the whereabouts of the "unlock" button. It could be on the key fob, or it could be on a panel in the front of the car that's visible from the windshield. Once you have the location, use a rod or coat hanger to create a gap between the car's door and the window or frame. Then, you can reach inside and press the button.
The other thing to check is whether your door locks have a release switch that you can press to open them. Certain cars, particularly ones that are more recent are equipped with this feature in the trunk. It is usually on the side nearest the passenger seat. You could also try the emergency release tab, which folds down the seat so you can crawl into the trunk and take your keys.
If none of these strategies work, you need to contact a professional. You might want to enlist the help of a friend who has the same make and model as your car, or ask your auto dealer to cut you a new one. You can get the new key for less than hiring a locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
It's not a great idea to lock the trunk of your car unless you are trying to keep valuables out of sight. While it's a great way to keep thieves away from your belongings, it also hinders opening the trunk without your key fob. However, you can overcome this problem by hiding a spare key under the rear fender well, or on the floor of the trunk. This method is not foolproof but it is simple for a thief to find, but it may help deter them from attempting to open your trunk in the first place.
Modern automobiles have gone to extreme lengths to ensure that their trunks can only be opened by those with a key fob. In order to protect your belongings, a lot of manufacturers have locked the trunk release lever inside the cabin or in the back seat. You can still save money by choosing to employ Slim Jim Slim Jim, or call roadside assistance rather than hiring locksmith.
You can use a wire hanger to try and open the trunk of your vehicle. You must be careful to not damage the paintwork. You'll also have to bend the hanger at one end to create a small hook. Then, get my keys out of my car can place the hook between the trunk and the back of the seat. You will know you have the right button or lever when you feel a sting.
You can also access the trunk if you have access to the front cabin. This is done by pressing a button located inside the cabin. This method isn't 100% secure since a burglar could look at the button and be aware that your valuables are inside the trunk.
The other method involves unlocking the trunk using the latch mechanism. This is an easy way to do it, but 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 might also have to be running to trigger the latch.
Examining the Battery
If you are unable unlock the doors using any of the methods listed above, it's possible that you simply have a dead battery on your key fob. Most car fobs come with an emergency key that you can use to unlock the driver's door when it is locked. This is typically a separate key that is included with the vehicle or can be located in the glove compartment or the center console.
Most often, a blockage in the lock's cylinder is the reason why a key won't work in the ignition. This can be caused by dirt, grime, or other debris that enters the lock and prevents the pins from falling correctly when you insert the key. A flashlight and compressed air are both great tools to help you find any obstructions in the lock cylinder. If you're cautious you can clear the debris and ensure your key will function when you require it.
Damage to the cylinder may cause a car to not turn on. In this situation, it is likely that the lock cylinder is damaged and requires replacement. This could be a costly repair, but fortunately there are solutions to temporarily fix the problem.
For instance, you could employ wire hooks to cut off a small section on the door handle where the key cylinder is. However, this method is not recommended if do not have much experience with DIY projects as it can be difficult to do and may cause damage to your vehicle. Additionally, you should ensure that your car is completely shut off before attempting any work on it.
Accidentally locking your keys in your car is a frustrating situation to find yourself in. Be calm and follow the steps to safely retrieve your keys without causing further damage to your vehicle. If you're able to do so, you should also consult your insurance company to determine if a key replacement is covered under your policy.
Need Help?
There are a few things you need to do before calling for help when you have locked the keys to your car. If you have an extra car key at home You can ask someone to bring it to unlock your car. You will not have to pay for an emergency locksmith service. You can also contact an acquaintance or family member to find out if he or she has the key. Many people keep spare keys to their cars at home or work so they can assist you in case you've locked yourself out. Third, call roadside assistance providers such as AAA. They have kits specifically designed to open vehicles and will be in a position to open your car for a fraction of the cost a locksmith would charge. They will need your VIN (located near the front wiper on the windshield) and proof ownership to unlock it.
If the situation is urgent and you have pets or children inside your vehicle, call 911 immediately. They will send police to your location to safely remove the animal or child from the vehicle. This could include using a slim-jim to break a window or to open the door of the car.
Finding your car keys locked inside the vehicle isn't enjoyable, but it can be a minor nuisance in the majority of cases. By following these tips to avoid getting trapped in your vehicle and have a plan of actions for the next time it happens to you.
Drivers can also take other steps to avoid being stuck in their vehicle in the future. For example you can download the app of the manufacturer of their vehicle or keep the spare key in an accessible place outside the vehicle. Additionally, Moody recommends that drivers contact their car manufacturer for a replacement key and to purchase a roadside assistance plan that covers lockout assistance. This could save you money in the long term, as being locked out of your vehicle is almost always covered by this type of insurance.