How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle
It is not unusual to lock your keys in the vehicle. This could be a stressful situation. But this is a scenario that can be dealt with.
You can avoid being locked out again by storing spare keys in a safe and secure place. unlock car keys inside can also add a roadside service to your vehicle. This helps with breakdowns and can help you get back on the road.
Locking the Doors
If you lock your keys inside your car, it can be embarrassing. If you're lucky, you have a family member or a friend who is in the vicinity and can open the car door without causing damage. It is possible to gain access to your car with the right tools, even if don't have a family member nearby. The type of vehicle you drive and the locks installed inside will determine how easy it will be to get back inside.
For example, if your car has manual locks instead of sensor-operated ones, you can make use of a rod or wire to open the doors. You can use a coathanger wire bent into a lasso shape or, in more modern vehicles, the metal rod is integrated into the key fob. You can also find "lock picking" kits at a variety of hardware stores, which include the metal rod and instructions to help unlock the door of your car.
You must first identify the whereabouts of the "unlock" button. It can be found on the key fob or on a wall that is visible through the windscreen. Once you have this information, use a rod or coat hanger to create a gap between the car's door and the window frame or frame. Then, you can reach inside and press the button.
Another thing to look for is whether your door locks come with release switches that you can push to unlock them. A few of the latest cars have these in the trunk, typically on the side closest to the passenger seats. You can also utilize 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 want to enlist the help of a friend who has the same make and model as your vehicle or ask your car dealer to cut you a new key. You can obtain a new key for much less than hiring a locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
Locking the trunk of your car is a bad option unless you are looking to hide valuables away. While it's ideal to keep thieves away from your belongings, it also keeps you from opening the trunk without your key fob. You can fix this issue by hiding a spare car key under the rear bumper well or in the trunk. This isn't foolproof, and it is easy for thieves to find however it could deter them from attempting to open your trunk in the first place.
Modern cars have gone to extreme measures to ensure that only the key fob is able to open the trunk. Many manufacturers have put the trunk release lever in the cabin or on the back seat to safeguard your valuables. The good news is that you can save money by using the Slim Jim or calling roadside assistance instead of hiring locksmith.
You can use a wire hanger try to open the trunk of your vehicle. You should be cautious to avoid damaging the paintwork. You'll have bend the hanger at one end, to form a hook. After that, slide the hook into the space between the back of the seat and the trunk. You'll know if you've used the right lever or button if you feel a sting.
If you have access to the cab of your vehicle, you could also use a push button located in the cabin's front to open the trunk. This method isn't foolproof since a burglar could look at the button and see that your valuables are inside the trunk.
Another method is to open the trunk using the latch mechanism. This is an easy way to unlock the trunk, however only if you have a car that is not fully charged. You will also need to hear the door locks clicking when you press them. It is also possible that the engine needs to be running to activate the latch.
Examining the Battery
If you are unable to unlock the doors with any of the methods mentioned above, it is possible that you simply have a dead battery in your key fob. 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. This is usually a separate key that was included with the vehicle or can be located in the glove compartment or center console.
The majority of the time an obstruction in the lock's cylinder can be the reason a key won't work in the ignition. Dirt, grime, or other debris may cause this problem. It blocks the pins from dropping correctly when you insert your key. A flashlight and compressed air are excellent tools to find any obstructions in the lock's cylinder. If you are careful, you can remove the debris and ensure your key will function when you need it.
Another reason that could cause the car key to not turn the ignition is damage to the cylinder itself. In this case, it is likely that the lock cylinder is damaged and needs to be replaced. This can be a costly fix, but fortunately there are methods to temporarily fix this problem.
For example, you can make use of a wire hanger to remove a small piece of trim from the door handle or panel on which the key cylinder can be situated. But, this method is not recommended if you don't have much experience with DIY projects, as it is difficult to do and may harm your vehicle. It is also important that you shut off the vehicle completely before beginning any work.
Locking your keys accidentally in your vehicle is an unpleasant situation to find yourself in. Be calm and follow the above guidelines to safely retrieve your keys without damaging your vehicle. If you can, you should also inquire with your insurance provider to see if key replacement is covered under your policy.
Calling for Help
Before you call for assistance when you have locked your keys in your vehicle, there are a few things that you can do. First, if you are at home and have an extra key, have someone bring it to you, and then open your car using that method. You won't have to pay for an emergency locksmith service. Next, call using a family member's or friend's phone to see if they have the key. Many people keep an extra key in their home or at work, and they will come get you when you're locked out of your car. Thirdly, call roadside assistance providers such as AAA. They have kits specifically designed to unlock vehicles and will be in a position to open your car at a lower cost than locksmiths would cost. But, they'll require your VIN number (visible near the front windshield wiper) and proof of ownership to perform this.
Contact 911 immediately if you have an emergency and have a child or pet in your vehicle. They will send police to your home to remove the child or animal from the vehicle. This could involve using a jim that is slim to open the door, or breaking windows.
Getting your car keys locked in the vehicle is never enjoyable, but it can be a minor inconvenience in the majority of instances. These tips can help you avoid being left stranded and prepare a plan for the next time it occurs.
Drivers can also take other ways to avoid getting stuck in their vehicle in the future. For example you can download the app of their vehicle manufacturer or keep the spare key in an accessible place outside the vehicle. Moody also suggests that motorists purchase a roadside service plan that provides lockout assistance and contact their car manufacturer to request an alternate key. This can save money over time, since the majority of roadside assistance plans provide assistance for lockouts.