How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle
Locking keys in your car is a frequent occurrence, and it can leave you with a panicked feeling. This is a scenario that you can deal with.
There are ways to avoid getting locked out in the future, such as having spare keys stored somewhere safe and secure. You can also add a roadside service to your vehicle. This covers breakdowns and can help you get back on the road.
Locking the Doors
When you lock your keys inside your car, it could be embarrassing. If you're fortunate there's a family member or friend is nearby and can unlock the car door without damaging it. If not, it could still be relatively easy to get back inside your vehicle using the proper tools. It all depends on the type of car you drive and the type of locks that are installed in it.
If the locks on your car are not operated by sensors, you can open the doors by using an incredibly thin rod or wire. It could be a coat hanger that you bend into the shape of a lasso or, on newer vehicles the rod of a metal is built into your key fob. There are also "lock picking" kits in a variety of hardware stores that have the metal rod and instructions to help you unlock your car's doors.
It is important to first determine the location of the "unlock" button. car lockouts can be found close to the key fob or on a panel that is visible through the windshield. Once you've figured out this information, you can use an iron rod or coat hanger in order to create a space between the door of the car and the window or frame. Then, you can go inside and press the button.
Make sure that your door locks are equipped with a release lever that you can press to open them. A few of the latest automobiles have these switches in the trunk, usually on the side closest to the seats. You can also try the emergency release tab, which folds the seat down to allow you to crawl into the trunk to take your keys.
If none of these solutions work, you'll have to seek help. You may want to seek the assistance of a friend who owns the same make and model as your vehicle, or ask your auto dealer to make you a new key. They can do this for less than you'll pay an locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
It's not a good idea to lock the trunk of your vehicle unless you intend to hide valuables. While it is a great way to ensure that thieves aren't able to access your possessions, it keeps you from opening the trunk without using your key fob. But, you can work around this problem by hiding a spare key under the rear fender well, or on the floor of the trunk. This method is not foolproof and is easily discovered by a thief, but it could keep thieves from attempting to open your trunk.
Modern cars have made extreme measures to ensure that only the key fob can open the trunk. Many manufacturers have put the lever for opening the trunk in the cabin or on the back seat to safeguard your valuables. You can still save money if you make use of a Slim Jim, or call roadside assistance instead of hiring a locksmith.
You can use a wire hanger attempt to open the trunk of your vehicle. You must be careful to avoid damaging the paintwork. You will also need to bend the hanger at one end so that it is able to form a small hook. Afterwards, insert the hook into the space between the back of the seat and the trunk. If you are able to feel resistance, you have found the lever or button that opens the trunk.
You can also open the trunk if have access to the front cabin. This is accomplished by pressing a button inside the cabin. However, this isn't an absolute security measure since it is possible for a thief to see the button and be aware that you have your valuables in the trunk.
The other method involves unlocking the trunk using the latch mechanism. This is a simple way to unlock the trunk, however only if you have a car that is not fully charged. You'll also need to hear the door locks clicking when you press them. It is also possible that the engine needs to be running to trigger the latch.
Examining the Battery
If you are unable open the doors using any of the methods listed above, it is likely that you have a dead battery on your key fob. The good thing is that many car fobs have a built-in emergency key that can be used to unlock the door of the driver if it is locked. This is usually an additional key that came with the vehicle, or it can be located in the center console or the glove compartment.
Most often an obstruction in the lock's cylinder can be the reason why keys don't work in the ignition. Dirt or grime or other debris could cause this problem. It prevents the pins to drop correctly when you insert your key. You can use compressed air or a flashlight to locate any obstructions in the lock cylinder. If you're careful you can clear the debris and ensure your key will function when you require it.
Another reason that may cause the car key to not turn the ignition is damage to the cylinder itself. In this case the lock cylinder could be damaged and must be replaced. This can be an expensive repair, but there are ways to fix the problem temporarily.
You can, for example, use wire hooks to cut off a tiny portion of the door handle in which the key cylinder is located. This method is not recommended for those who are new to DIY projects. It can be difficult and could damage your vehicle. It is also important that you shut off the vehicle completely prior to beginning any work.
Locking your keys accidentally in your vehicle is a frustrating situation to find yourself in. It's crucial to be calm and follow the suggestions above to help you retrieve keys in a safe manner without causing additional damage to your vehicle. If you're able to then, you should inquire with your insurance provider to determine if a key replacement is covered under your policy.
Calling for help
Before you call for assistance in the event that you lock your keys in your vehicle, there are a few things that you can do. If you have a spare car key home, ask someone to bring it in to unlock your vehicle. You won't have to pay for an emergency locksmith service. You could also call an acquaintance or family member to find out if he or she has the key. Many people keep a spare car key at home or work so they can assist you if you've locked yourself out. Third, call roadside assistance companies like AAA. They have kits specifically designed to unlock vehicles and are in a position to open your car at a lower cost than the locksmith would charge. However, they will need to know your VIN number (visible near the front windshield wiper) and proof of ownership to perform this.
Call 911 immediately if are in an urgent situation and have a pet or a child in your vehicle. They will send police to your location to remove the child or animal from the vehicle. This could involve using the slim-jim to break a window or to open the door to the car.
Locking your car keys 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 stuck in your car and prepare a plan of action for the next time it occurs to you.
Drivers can take additional ways to avoid getting stuck in their car in the future. For example you can download the mobile app of the car manufacturer or keep a spare key in a safe location outside the vehicle. In addition, Moody recommends that drivers contact their car manufacturer to request the replacement of their key and buy a roadside assistance plan that provides lockout assistance. This could save money over time, since the majority of roadside assistance plans provide assistance with lockouts.