What to Do If You Locked Yourself Out of Your Car
A majority of car owners have locked themselves out of their vehicles at some time or another. It can be stressful and frightening, but you can fix it.
Instead of panicking, stay calm and consider all options before making a decision based on emotion. You may have roadside assistance through a credit card or insurance policy that can help you out.
1. Lock the doors
If you've locked yourself out of your car, the first thing to do is make sure that all the doors are securely locked. In the rush, people tend to forget things. The last thing you want is to waste time trying open a door which isn't even locked!
Check that all windows are shut. Most people who are locked out of their car fail to close the windows behind them. This can result in an issue in the future!
It's also an excellent idea to inform your family and your friends that you're locked out of your car. This way, they'll be able to keep an eye out for you and assist you in times of need. If you're considering buying an automobile it's always recommended to purchase additional keys and keep them in a safe place. This will help you avoid locking yourself out of your car in the future.
You can use some of the solutions that are listed above to gain access to your vehicle. For instance, you can make use of a screwdriver to pry the lock open and insert a rod through it (or something similar). Another option is to use a coathanger that has been straightened and then slipped between the window and the weatherstripping to help lift the locking mechanism. You can buy inflatable wedge kits specifically designed for this.
You should be aware that in certain situations, you can't just sit and wait for someone to unlock the door. If you have a pet or child locked in your car you may not want to wait for someone to come to help you get them out.
2. Call for help
Being locked out of your car could be a stressful and upsetting experience. If you're able to remain calm and call for assistance, it shouldn't be a reason to ruin your day.
If you find yourself locked out of your car and you are unable to get into it, you must first look at the situation to determine if it is urgent. If your car is located in an area that is prone to danger, such as near railroad tracks or in an area with a high rate of crime it may be difficult to determine whether this is an emergency. If you're able to, call 911 and inform them that there is children or pets in the car.
If you're unable to get in touch with someone right away, seek assistance from others. A family member or friend may be able to unlock your car door for you, or they might have a spare key that they can leave with you in the event of an emergency. Alternatively, you could try to break the window, but this isn't recommended as it can be dangerous and costly, particularly if the windows are constructed of safety glass.
It's also a good idea to keep the contact number of an Gainesville locksmith in your pocket, in case you need to lock your keys inside your home one day. unlock car service , you'll be assured that a professional will be there to assist you in no time at all.
If you're a member of a roadside assistance program like AAA It's a good idea to keep their number on hand, too. A lot of these companies provide 24/7 support and have a team of experts available to assist in lockout situations. They'll usually get you back into your car without damaging it and are well worth a call. It's also a good idea to keep a routine of checking for your keys before leaving your vehicle, and think about adding keychain accessories to help to make them more visible.
3. Get an extra key
Keep a spare car key to ensure you are not locked out. It may appear to be a hassle but it's a lot less expensive than calling for a tow truck or locksmith! You can keep a spare key in a purse or wallet, or in a key holder with magnetic features that you can put on the side of your car. Alternatively, you could invest in a kit that includes inflatable wedges and long reach tools to assist you in your efforts to unlock a car.
Ask your family member or a friend to bring your spare keys in case you are away from home. This only works in the case of being within driving distance of them however, it can save you time and money in the event of an emergency lockout.
You can also switch keys with friends or roommates every month to prevent wearing down your primary key. This is particularly useful when you live in an area with a large amount of snow. The cold winter weather can cause wear on keys to increase.
It's not fun to lose your car keys, but it happens to all of us. Stay calm and make an action plan in case you encounter the same situation. There are a variety of tools and tricks that can assist you in getting into your vehicle, like a Slim Jim, an inflatable wedge, a bobbypin or a wire hanger. It might require a few attempts but don't quit! In the end, you'll be able to unlock your door. Just be sure to look through all doors, particularly if you believe you've locked yourself from your back window.
4. Call for roadside assistance
A car that is locked can be an unpleasant situation, particularly when there are children or pets inside. Luckily, there are many options to gain access back into your vehicle, like asking for assistance at the roadside or obtaining an extra key.
The first step is to remain calm and consider all your options. This will prevent you from making decisions that are impulsive and stops you from taking extreme steps that could be dangerous for yourself or others. It is also advisable to not leave the extra key outside of your home in a secluded place. This could be a way for thieves to find the key. It is safer to leave a spare key with your neighbor or a family member, and also to make sure you check your car before leaving.
It might be easier to get into your vehicle if you've got a keyless entry system on a newer car. If you're driving an older vehicle you'll have to look at different methods. Many gas stations can help you with this, as they often have tools that can open your door without harm. One method is to use a long hook and pull the lock. Another option is to make use of shoelaces.
If your keys are still in the ignition or you think someone is trapped inside your car, call 911 immediately. Depending on the circumstances, a police officer or firefighter may be able to open your car's door. If you require assistance get in touch with an emergency locksmith. Make sure to have the number of a local locksmith handy, as it can take some time for them to get in touch with you.
5. Call for a locksmith
If you can't open your car using any other method, a locksmith is the best alternative. Locksmiths are skilled at unlocking cars and are able to do it quickly. They can also assist you to avoid lockouts in the future by installing alarm systems and providing advice on procedures for securing your vehicle.
Before making a call for help, make sure to double-check the doors and ensure that your keys are actually secured. It's not difficult to lose a key in your car, especially when you're not paying attention or are rushed as you exit. Making sure to check each door will save you a lot of hassle in the future.
If you're stranded in the middle of nowhere, roadside assistance services such as AAA can be extremely helpful. They're usually there within minutes and have kits specially made for this kind of situation. You can also call a local auto locksmith to get assistance quickly, and many of them provide 24/7 emergency services.
If you're unable to gain entry into your vehicle you should wait for help in a safe area. If you can, locate an area where people won't mistake you for the robber or burglar.
Being locked out of your car can be a major inconvenience. If you have a spare, use proper locking procedures and don't hurry when you get into and out of your vehicle, you're not likely to have this issue often. If it does happen, however don't panic as there are many solutions that can help you resolve the issue and get back to your normal routine!