How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle
It is not uncommon to lock your keys in the vehicle. This could be a stressful situation. But this is a situation that can be dealt with.
There are ways to prevent getting locked out in the future, which includes storing spare keys somewhere safe and secure. You can also add roadside service to your vehicle. This helps with breakdowns and can help you get back on the road.
Locking the Doors
It can be an embarrassing moment when you lock your keys in your car. In the ideal situation there is someone from your family or a friend nearby who can come unlock the door for you without damaging your vehicle. If not, it will be fairly easy to get back into your vehicle with the right tools. It all depends on the type of vehicle you drive and the type of lock installed in it.
If your car's locks are manual and not sensor-operated, you can unlock the doors using an incredibly thin rod or wire. It could be a wire coat hanger that is bent into the shape of a lasso or on vehicles with more modern technology the rod of a metal is embedded into your key fob. Many hardware stores offer "lock picking" sets which include a rod made of metal and instructions for unlocking your car's doors.
To use this method, you have to identify where the "unlock" switch is located. It can be found near the key fob or on a wall visible through the windscreen. Once you've figured out this information, use a coat hanger or rod to create a space between the car's door and the window frame or frame. You can then enter the gap and press the button to unlock the door.
The other thing to check is whether your door locks include an opening switch that you can push to open them. Some of the more recent cars have these in the trunk, generally on the side closest to the passenger seats. You can also use the emergency release tab to fold down the seat and crawl into the trunk.
If none of these solutions work, you'll need to seek help. You might consider enlisting the assistance of a friend who owns the same model and model as your car or ask your auto dealer to make you a new key. They can do this for much less than you'll pay an locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
It's not a good idea to secure the trunk of your vehicle unless you intend to keep valuables out of sight. While it's an excellent way to ensure that thieves aren't able to access your belongings, it also keeps you from opening the trunk without your key fob. You can solve this problem by concealing a spare car keys under the rear bumper or in the trunk. This method isn't 100% secure, and it is easy for thieves to find but it can deter them from attempting to open your trunk in the first place.
Modern automobiles have made extreme measures to ensure that only the key fob will be able to unlock the trunk. Many manufacturers have put the lever for opening the trunk in the cabin or on the back seat to safeguard your valuables. The good news is that you can still save money by using a Slim Jim or calling roadside assistance instead of hiring locksmith.
You can try opening your trunk by using a wire hanger. You must be careful to avoid damaging the paintwork. You'll also have to bend the hanger on one side so that it is able to form the size of a hook. Then, insert the hook between the trunk and the back of the seat. You will know you have the correct button or lever if you feel a slight resistance.
You can also open the trunk if have access to your car's front cabin. This can be done by pressing a button inside the cabin. However, this isn't an absolute security measure since it is possible for thieves to spot the button and know that you have your valuables in the trunk.
The other method involves unlocking the trunk with the latch mechanism. This is a straightforward method, but it only works if your car is not fully charged and you can hear the door locks click when you press them. The engine may also need to be running in order to activate the latch.
Checking the Battery
It is possible that the battery of your key fob has gone out of service if you can't unlock the door by any of the methods listed above. The good news is that most key fobs come with an emergency key that can be used to unlock the door for the driver when it is locked. This is usually an additional key that was included with the vehicle or could be located in the glove box or the center console.
Most often an obstruction in the lock's cylinder is the reason why keys don't work in the ignition. Dirt or grime, as well as other debris could cause this issue. It blocks the pins from dropping correctly when you insert your key. A flashlight and compressed air are great tools to help you locate any obstructions in the lock's cylinder. If you're careful you can clear the obstructions and ensure that your key will work when you need it.
Another reason that could cause a car key not to turn in the ignition is damage to the cylinder itself. In this case, it is likely that the lock cylinder has been damaged and requires replacement. This can be an expensive repair however, there are solutions to temporarily solve this problem.
For instance, you can employ a wire hook to pry off a small section on the door handle where the key cylinder is. This is not a good idea for those who are new to DIY projects. It can be difficult and may cause damage to your vehicle. service to unlock car is also important to turn off the car completely prior to beginning any work.
Locking your keys accidentally in your vehicle is an unpleasant situation to be in. It is important to be calm and follow the tips provided above to get them back them safely without causing any additional damage to your vehicle. If you can, you should also inquire with your insurance provider to see if key replacement is covered under your policy.
Need Help?
Before you call for assistance if you lock your keys in your vehicle, there are a few steps you can do. If you have an extra car key at home You can ask someone to bring it to unlock your car. This will help you avoid the expense of hiring a locksmith for an emergency service call. The second option is to call using a family member's or friend's phone to find out whether they have the keys. Many people keep keys in their home or at work, so they can help you out when you're locked out of your car. Thirdly, you can contact roadside assistance companies like AAA. They have tools specifically designed to open cars and are able to unlock your car at a less cost than a locksmith. They will need your VIN (located close to the front windshield wiper) and proof of ownership to open it.
If the emergency is urgent and you have an infant or pet in your car, call 911 immediately. The police will be sent to your home to remove the child or animal from the vehicle. This could involve using a small jim to open the door, or breaking the window.
It's never enjoyable to lock your keys in your vehicle, but in the majority of cases it's an inconvenience that isn't too significant. By following these suggestions, you can avoid being trapped in your vehicle and have a plan of action for the next time it happens to you.
Drivers should also take steps to avoid getting stuck in their cars in the future, for instance, downloading the app for their vehicle's manufacturer or keeping keys in a safe place outside the vehicle, for example an electronic safe under the vehicle or on the driver's side of the trunk. Moody also suggests that drivers purchase a roadside assistance plan that offers lockout assistance and contact their car manufacturer to get an alternate key. This can save you money in the long run because being locked out of your car is almost always covered by this type of coverage.