How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle
Locking keys inside the car is a common situation, and it can cause anxiety. But this is a situation which can be handled.
You can ensure that you don't get locked out by keeping spare keys in a safe and secure location. You can also add roadside service to your vehicle. This will cover breakdowns and assists you in getting back on the road.
Locking the Doors
When you lock your keys inside your car, it can be embarrassing. If you're fortunate there's a family member or friend is nearby and can unlock the car door without damaging it. It is still possible to get inside your car with the right tools, even if you don't have a friend or family member in the vicinity. The kind of vehicle you drive and the locks that are installed in it will determine how easy it is to get back inside.
For instance, if your car has manual locks instead of sensor-operated locks, you can use a thin rod or wire to unlock the doors. This might 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 integrated into the key fob. A lot of hardware stores offer "lock picking" sets that include a metal rod and instructions to unlock your car's doors.
You must first identify the position of the "unlock" button. It could be near the key fob, or it could be on a wall in the front of the car that's visible from the windshield. Once you've figured out this information, use a rod or coat hanger to create a space between the door of the car and the window frame or frame. Then you can reach in and press the button to unlock the door.
Check if your door locks come with a release button that you can press to unlock them. Certain cars, especially ones that are more recent, have this in the trunk. It's usually located on the side nearest the seat of the driver. You can also use the emergency release button to fold down the seat and crawl into the trunk.
If none of these solutions work, you'll have to seek out help. You might consider enlisting the help of a family member who owns the same make and model as your vehicle or ask your car dealer to make you a new key. They can do this for less than the cost of for a locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
The trunk of your car isn't a good option unless you are looking to hide valuables away. While it's a great way to keep thieves out of your belongings, it also hinders opening the trunk without your key fob. It is possible to solve this issue by placing a spare car key under the rear bumper well or inside the trunk. This method isn't 100% secure and can be easily spotted by a thief, but it could keep them from trying to open your trunk.
Modern automobiles have gone to extreme lengths to ensure that their trunks are only able to be opened by a person who has a key fob. To protect your belongings, a lot of manufacturers have locked the trunk release lever in the cabin or the back seat. You can still save money by choosing to employ a Slim Jim, or call roadside assistance instead of hiring locksmith.
You can try opening your trunk by using a wire hanger. However, you need to be careful not to damage the paint job. You'll need bend the hanger at one end, to form a hook. Afterwards, insert the hook into the gap between the back of the seat and the trunk. You'll know you've got the correct button or lever when you feel resistance.
You can also open the trunk if have access to your car's front cabin. This is done by pressing a button in the cabin. However, this isn't a 100% secure method since it is possible for thieves to look at the button and realize that you have valuables in the trunk.
Another method is to unlock the trunk by using the latch mechanism. This is a simple way to unlock the trunk, but only if you own a vehicle that isn't fully charged. You will also need to hear the door locks click when you press them. It is also possible that the engine needs to be running in order to trigger the latch.
Examining the Battery
It is possible that your key fob battery is dead if you are unable to open the door by using any of the above methods. The good news is that most key fobs come with an emergency key that can be used to unlock the driver's door if it is locked. It is typically a separate key that came with the vehicle, or it can be found in the center console or glove compartment.
The majority of the time there is a blockage in the lock cylinder is the reason a key won't work in the ignition. This could be due to dirt, grime or any other debris that gets inside the lock and blocks the pins from dropping correctly when you insert the key. You can use compressed air or a flashlight to locate any obstructions in the lock cylinder. If you are careful, you can remove the obstructions and ensure that your key works when you need it.
door unlock service that could cause a car key not to turn the ignition is damage to the cylinder itself. In this scenario the lock cylinder is likely damaged and requires to be replaced. This can be a costly fix, but fortunately there are methods to temporarily fix this problem.
You can, for example, use a wire hook to pry off a tiny portion of the door handle in which the key cylinder is located. 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. Additionally, you should always ensure that the car is completely turned off before attempting any work on it.
The risk of locking your keys accidentally in your vehicle is an embarrassing situation to find yourself in. Be calm and follow the steps to ensure that you can retrieve your keys without damaging your car. If you're able to then, you should inquire with your insurance provider to determine if the replacement of your key is covered under your policy.
Help is needed.
Before you call for assistance if you lock your keys in your vehicle There are a few steps you can do. If you have a spare car key home, ask someone to bring it to unlock your car. This will avoid having to pay an emergency locksmith service call. Second, try using a family member's or friend's phone to determine whether they have the keys. Many people will keep keys in their home or at work, so they can assist you if you lock yourself out of your vehicle. Thirdly, call roadside assistance providers such as AAA. They have special tools to open cars and are able to open your vehicle at a cheaper cost than a locksmith. They will require your VIN (located near the front windshield wiper) and proof of ownership to unlock it.
Call 911 immediately if you are in an urgent situation and have a child or pet in your vehicle. They will send police to your location to safely remove the animal or child from the vehicle. This could include using a slim-jim to break a window or open the car door.
Locking your car keys inside the vehicle isn't enjoyable, but it could be a minor issue in the majority of cases. Following these tips will help you avoid being stranded and plan a strategy for the next time it occurs.
Drivers can also take steps to prevent being stuck in their vehicles in the future, like downloading their vehicle manufacturer's app or keeping keys in a safe location outside the vehicle, such as a magnetic safe beneath the vehicle or on the driver's side of the trunk. Moody also recommends that motorists purchase a roadside service plan that provides assistance with locking out, and then contact their car manufacturer to request an alternate key. This could save money over time, since most roadside assistance plans cover lockout assistance.