It’s a nightmare scenario that most of us have faced at one point or another – you’re in a hurry, you slam the car door shut, and then suddenly realize that your keys are still inside. It’s a frustrating and stressful situation, but fortunately, there are some steps you can take to get back into your car and on your way again. In this article, we’ll go over what to do if your keys are locked in your car, from the quick and easy fixes to the more drastic measures.
Don’t Panic
The first thing to do if you find yourself in this situation is to take a deep breath and try not to panic. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and frustrated, but panicking won’t help you solve the problem. Instead, take a moment to gather your thoughts and assess the situation.
Check All Doors
Before you do anything else, check all of the doors on your car to see if any of them are unlocked. It’s not uncommon to accidentally leave a door unlocked, and if you’re lucky, this could be an easy fix. If any of the doors are unlocked, simply open the door and retrieve your keys.
Use a Spare Key
If you have a spare key, now is the time to use it. Hopefully, you keep a spare key in a safe and accessible location, such as in your wallet, purse, or with a trusted friend or family member. If you don’t have a spare key, it’s a good idea to have one made as soon as possible – it can save you a lot of time and hassle in situations like this.
Call a Locksmith
If you don’t have a spare key or any of the doors are unlocked, it’s time to call a locksmith. A locksmith is a professional who specializes in opening locks, and they can usually get you back into your car quickly and easily. Be sure to choose a reputable locksmith who has good reviews and is licensed and insured.
Use a Coat Hanger
If you don’t want to call a locksmith or don’t have time to wait for one to arrive, you can try using a coat hanger to unlock your car. This method works best on older cars with manual locks, and it can be a bit tricky. To do this, straighten out a coat hanger and then bend one end into a hook shape. Slide the hook between the window and the weather stripping on the door, then try to maneuver it around until you can hook the lock. Once you have the lock hooked, pull up to unlock the door.
Use a Slim Jim
A Slim Jim is a tool that can be used to unlock car doors from the outside. It’s a long, flat piece of metal with a hook on one end that is designed to slide down between the window and the weather stripping on the door. Once the Slim Jim is in place, you can use it to manipulate the lock and unlock the door. However, this method requires some skill and practice, and it’s important to be careful not to damage the door or the lock.
Break a Window
If all else fails, you may need to break a window to get into your car. This should be a last resort, as it can be expensive and dangerous. If you do need to break a window, be sure to use a tool that won’t shatter the glass, such as a center punch or a hammer with a pointed end. Aim for the corner of the window, as this is the strongest point, and be sure to wear gloves and eye protection.
Conclusion
Getting locked out of your car can be a frustrating and stressful experience, but there are several options available to you. From checking all of the doors to breaking a window, each method has its own pros and cons. The best course of action depends on your individual situation, so be sure to consider all of the options carefully. And remember, it’s always a good idea to have a spare key on hand – it can save you a lot of time and hassle in the long run.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to call a locksmith to unlock your car?
- The cost can vary depending on the locksmith and your location, but it typically ranges from $50 to $200.
- Can a locksmith unlock a car without a key?
- Yes, a locksmith can use special tools to pick the lock and unlock the door without a key.
- Is it illegal to break a window to get into your own car?
- It’s not illegal to break a window to get into your own car, but it’s important to be aware of the potential consequences, such as the cost of replacing the window.
- What should I do if I lock my keys in my car in a dangerous area?
- If you’re in a dangerous area, it’s best to call the police or a tow truck to assist you with getting back into your car.
- How can I prevent locking my keys in my car in the future?
- Some steps you can take to prevent locking your keys in your car include keeping a spare key, using a keyless entry system, and double-checking that you have your keys before locking the door.