There’s nothing worse than that sinking feeling when you realize you’ve locked your keys inside your car.
Whether you’re in a hurry or stuck in an unfamiliar place, it can be stressful to figure out how to get back inside your vehicle.
Don’t worry if you don’t know what to do if you get locked out of your car – this happens more often than you think, and you’ve got options! Here are five steps you can take right away to unlock your vehicle and get back on the road.
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Can You Call a Family Member or Friend for Help?
Your first instinct when you’ve locked your keys inside your vehicle might be to panic, but take a breath and think – do you have a spare key?
If you’ve got one stashed at home, call a family member or friend to bring it over.
Having a spare key can save you a lot of hassle. If you don’t have one handy, now might be a good time to learn from this experience and consider getting a new one made for future emergencies.
If a family member or friend can’t help, consider your other options.
You might be able to call someone else nearby who could assist, especially if you’ve locked your phone inside the car as well. Keep calm and reach out to someone you trust.
Should You Call Roadside Assistance?
Most car insurance policies include some form of roadside assistance. If you’re wondering what to do if you get locked out of your car, this might be the most straightforward solution.
Check your insurance policy or app for details. Many companies have 24/7 roadside assistance services designed for exactly this kind of emergency.
When you contact roadside assistance, let them know you’ve locked your keys in the car, and they can dispatch someone to unlock your door.
This might take some time depending on your location, but it’s often a free service if it’s part of your coverage.
If you don’t already have roadside assistance, consider signing up for one of the many available towing services to avoid future issues. This way, you can easily call a tow truck to help you out if you’re stuck in a rut.
Can You Use a Wire Coat Hanger or Inflatable Wedge?
On the other hand, if you’re feeling confident and want to try unlocking the car yourself, there are some DIY methods that might work.
One of the most common tools used is a wire coat hanger. This trick works best on older cars that still have manual locks.
You’ll need to straighten the hanger and slide it through the weather stripping along the top of the car door. With some careful maneuvering, you may be able to pop the lock open.
Another popular tool is an inflatable wedge. This is a small airbag that you slide between the window and the car frame, then pump up to create a gap.
Once you’ve got a bit of space, you can use a tool to unlock the car door from the inside.
However, if you’re not sure about using these tools, it might be better to avoid any potential damage to your vehicle.
These DIY tips can be handy if you’re in a pinch, but proceed with caution. If it feels too risky, calling a professional might be the better route.
Should You Call a Locksmith?
If none of the above solutions work, it’s time to call a locksmith.
An expert car locksmith in Houston, Texas, or your local area is trained to unlock your vehicle without causing damage.
This is the most reliable option when you’re completely locked out, especially if you’ve tried other methods with no success.
To find help around you, simply search “locksmith near me” online or use an app that can connect you with local locksmiths.
Be sure to choose a reputable company, as you want someone experienced who can handle the job quickly and safely.
Locksmiths usually charge a fee, but they’ll get you back into your car faster than trying DIY tricks that could scratch or damage your vehicle.
Some locksmiths also offer emergency services, so you don’t have to wait long for help.
Whether it’s day or night, an expert will know how to unlock your car without causing any harm to the lock or door.
Should You Contact the Authorities?
In extreme situations, like if you’ve locked a child or pet inside your car, it’s important to call the police or emergency services right away.
Time is critical in such cases, especially if the weather is hot or cold. Most law enforcement agencies will respond quickly to these kinds of emergencies, and they have the tools needed to unlock your car safely.
Don’t hesitate to contact them if someone is in danger. Try not to panic and explain the situation to the authorities as soon as possible.
Your safety and the safety of your loved ones come first. If necessary, they may also call in towing services to assist with getting the car open.
While calling the authorities should be your last resort for non-emergency situations, they are there to help if you’re in a locked car emergency.
Conclusion: What’s the Best Next Step for You?
When you find yourself locked out of your car, don’t panic – there are multiple ways to get back in.
If you have a spare key, it’s the easiest solution. However, if you don’t have an extra key, consider using roadside assistance through your insurance or look up “professional locksmith near me” online.
For those feeling adventurous, a wire coat hanger or inflatable wedge might do the trick, but use these methods carefully to avoid damage. You should also wear protective gear or gloves to avoid getting cut by broken window shards.
In any case, act quickly and safely. Remember, locking your keys inside your car happens to the best of us – so next time, keep a spare handy to avoid future headaches!
