Getting your keys locked inside your car can be a frustrating and stressful experience, but it’s a situation that many drivers find themselves in at some point.
Whether you accidentally locked your keys in the car or the car’s automatic locking system engaged, being locked out of your own vehicle can leave you feeling helpless.
However, there are several effective methods you can try to retrieve your keys without causing damage to your car.
In this article, WoK seeks to explore the steps you can take to get your keys back, from simple DIY techniques to calling for professional assistance.
Download the manufacturer’s phone app
A lot of automakers let owners unlock their cars using an app on their phone.
When you buy a car, you’ll need to download the app and match it with your automobile to stop lockouts in the future.
In the event you lose your car, some apps even allow you to find it by starting the engine or honking the horn.
However, it is important to enquire about this option if you purchase a newer model of car in order to find out what features you will be able to use.
Moreover, you can install an app on each member of your household’s smartphone so that someone can assist you in accessing it even if you lock your phone in the car.
Use a wire clothes hanger
A clothing hanger can also be used to open an older automobile.
Start by straightening the hanger and insert it into the doorframe, and move the lock into the unlock position.
If you have trouble bending the wire hanger into the proper shape, you may need to use pliers to make a hook that can easily operate the lock.
Similarly, if you don’t have a wire hanger, you might be able to construct something similar using a strong strip of plastic.
Use a string to unlock the car door
Manual door locks on older vehicles can be unlocked with a string or fishing line.
While it might be a difficult solution for some, you’ll need several feet of thread to make it work.
You’ll start by creating a loop in the middle of the string – fish it into an aperture to hook the loop onto the door lock.
The upper right corner of the driver’s door, through the door seam, is most likely the finest entry point.
To unlock your door, pull up on that lock. This approach will work with shoelaces, fishing lines, twine and other string materials.
Use an inflatable wedge
You can utilize inflatable wedge kits to get into your cars especially if you routinely lock yourself out of your car.
To gain access to the manual lock, you must first inflate the wedge in your door jamb. You can also avoid scratching your paint, and the procedure is straightforward.
Seek professional help
If your insurance covers roadside help or you have a locksmith to call, employ that option.
When everything else fails, a professional can step in and save the day.
They will have all of the tools needed to get you into your automobile, so you won’t have to look for answers.
Roadside assistance can be a useful service for future lockouts.
Keep in mind that some providers only provide a limited number of free lockout services each year, so try everything else before calling for assistance.
If you do not have roadside assistance, any auto locksmith and towing company should be able to help you.
All said, to prevent locking your car keys in your car, always lock your car using the key fob while standing outside the vehicle with the keys in your hand.
Never lock the car using the door button, as this increases the risk of leaving the keys inside.
Keep a spare key hidden somewhere on the exterior of your vehicle, such as behind the front license plate, behind the bumper, or inside the gas tank hatch.
This provides a backup in case you do accidentally lock the keys inside.
Develop a habit of always putting your keys in your pocket or purse immediately after exiting the car, and never leaving them on the seat or in the ignition.
Consider attaching your keys to a retractable reel or carabiner that clips to your clothing, so they are physically connected to you and less likely to be left behind.
Finally, program the number of a reliable locksmith into your phone so you can quickly call for assistance if you do end up locked out.
