17 Reasons You Shouldn't Be Ignoring Locked Out Car
What to Do When You're Locked Out of Your Car
It's a pain to be locked out of your vehicle. But don't panic. There are several options, such as calling a roadside assistance provider (such as GM's OnStar) or even leaving a spare car key with family members or friends.
You can also avoid lockouts by creating routines such as always checking your pockets and designating the location for keys prior to exiting your vehicle.
Evaluate the Situation
Assess the situation when you are locked out of your vehicle. Make sure to check the weather and the time of day to ensure your safety and that there are no other issues.
Based on the circumstances, you might have some options to get back in your vehicle. Ask your family member or a acquaintance to provide you with an extra key in case you have one. Many modern key finders also allow you to track your keys using a mobile application, making it easier to locate them when you're locked out.
If you do not have a spare key or if it is too late to ask to help, you may need to seek professional assistance. The most important thing to consider is your safety as well as the safety of any pets or children who are also locked inside the vehicle. Find Out More or break the door to open your car.
Find a alternative to get into the trunk or vehicle. You can create an opening by threading a shoestring or an inflatable wedge through the lock. This allows you to reach your arm into the gap. You may also be able open the trunk of your vehicle using a screwdriver, based on your vehicle.
You can also contact your roadside assistance provider to find out if they offer services for unlocking keys inside cars. These services are costly, but they're more efficient than improvised tools or putting yourself into. These services are less likely to cause damage to your vehicle.
Additionally, it is important to note that attempting DIY car unlocking methods could cause physical damage to your vehicle's or security systems. It is also illegal to tamper the locks on your car in the absence of the right credentials. In some instances it may even invalidate your warranty. The risk of not seeking assistance from a professional must be considered in relation to the costs.
Help is available
It's easy to return to your car only to realize that you've locked your keys inside. Absentmindedness, forgetting the keys in your pocket or purse as you exit the vehicle or even faulty locks can all contribute to this gruelling situation. Instead of panicking, take a moment to evaluate your options and determine the best route to take.
The first step is to inspect every door of your vehicle. If the doors are unlocked they can still be opened one of them using a shoelace or wire hanger (though it may take a lot of time and numerous attempts to get these makeshift tools into place).
Next, contact for assistance. Moody says that roadside assistance services such as AAA can be useful when trying to get out of the car that's locked. They are available 24/7 and will dispatch an expert as quickly as they are able. Just be aware that it could take a half hour or more to arrive.
You can also call an auto locksmith in your area to help you unlock your car if it is locked out. A professional locksmith will be able to unlock your car without damaging the vehicle and can even create a spare key for you in case of need. Some automakers have smartphone apps that can be used to unlock your car when you've lost your 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 recovery and towing but some also have the equipment and experience to unlock vehicles as well.
You might also be able to contact a friend or family member who has access to the vehicle. Make sure you request an extra key. Certain communities have non-profit organizations or community support services that can assist in situations like a car lockout. You can contact these services for assistance at no cost or for a modest cost.
Stay at peace
Be calm when you're locked out of your car. Stress can cloud your judgment, but panicking will only make the situation worse. Inhaling deeply and trying to keep a clear mind will help you think clearly, and come up with the best solution for you and your situation.
After you have regained composure, it is important to assess the situation and try to determine whether there is an easy way into your vehicle. Many people think they have locked themselves out of their vehicle, only to find that they left an open window or the trunk open when they were preparing to leave. A quick tour around the car is a great way to check for issues.
It is time to call assistance after assessing the situation. This is the most responsible and secure choice, as it ensures that someone with the right tools will arrive quickly. Many roadside assistance companies have apps or websites which can connect you to locksmiths in your area who are well-equipped to handle car lockouts in a safe manner and efficiently.
If you opt to go the DIY method, be careful not to use methods that could damage your vehicle. There are many hacks and tricks on the internet, but they are not suitable or safe for modern cars. The majority of these tricks and hacks could cause serious damage to the security system of your vehicle, so it's best to leave them to the professionals.
Once your car lockout problem has been solved it is an ideal time to consider ways to prevent it from happening again. A spare key that you keep with a trusted friend or family member or using technology such as key finders can be helpful in avoiding an eventual lockout. Regular maintenance and routine checks on your vehicle can also decrease the chance of finding yourself in a lockout situation. Follow these steps to avoid the frustration of a vehicle locking out, and leave with the knowledge that you've done it in a responsible manner.
Take Preventive Action
The chances of locking your keys inside the car are high however, you can do a few things to lessen the risk. A spare key along with a routine and a technology can help you avoid car lockouts.
If you have a spare, put it in a secure place easily accessible. You'll be able to access your vehicle if the need arises.
Before calling for help, you should test all the trunks and doors to make sure your keys aren't locked. It's also an excellent idea to tell a trusted family member or a friend of the situation, so that they can watch your situation while you wait for help. This is a safety measure and could also help you stay calm when waiting for assistance.
In many instances people are locked out of their cars due to misplacing or forgetting their keys. A simple fix for this problem is to develop routine. Repeat a short phrase, or chant, that lists all the things you'll must bring every time you're about to get out of your car. You'll be less likely to lose your keys If you do this, especially if in a hurry or distracted.
Another common cause of car lockouts is trying to force entry into the vehicle without proper tools. The coat hanger trick as well as the shoelace method are both common methods that could damage your vehicle. If you are in an emergency situation, such as when a child or pet is trapped in a room an unfinished window, removing it may be necessary to ensure their safety.
In most instances, locking yourself out of your car is not a major issue. It can be solved with just a few steps. By taking a look around and remaining calm, as well as reaching out to professionals like Lithonia Towing, you can avoid the stress and frustration caused by this situation. Preventive measures and having a spare key on the go, and using technology to your advantage can assist you in dealing with the issue quickly and effectively.