It’s a situation that many of us have found ourselves in – you’re rushing to get somewhere and in a moment of distraction, you accidentally lock your keys in the car. Panic sets in and you’re left wondering what to do next. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore what you should do when you lock your keys in the car.
Take A Deep Breath and Assess The Situation
The first thing you should do is take a deep breath and assess the situation. Is it safe for you to be where you are? If you’re in a busy parking lot or on the side of a busy road, make sure you move to a safe location. Once you’re in a safe place, take a closer look at your car. Is there a way to get in? Perhaps one of the doors is unlocked or a window is cracked open.
Call For Professional Help
If you’re unable to get into your car, it’s time to call for professional help. Contact a locksmith who specializes in automotive lockouts. They will have the tools and expertise needed to get you back into your car quickly and safely. It’s important to note that attempting to break into your car on your own can cause damage to the vehicle and may even result in injury.
Check If You Have A Spare Key
If you have a spare key, now is the time to use it. If you keep a spare key at home, call a family member or friend who can bring it to you. If you don’t have a spare key, consider getting one made once you’ve regained access to your car.
Try The DIY Method
If you’re feeling adventurous and have some basic tools on hand, you may be able to get into your car using a DIY method. One popular method involves using a coat hanger to maneuver the lock from outside the car. However, it’s important to note that this method can be risky and may cause damage to your car if not done correctly.
Use A Tennis Ball
Another DIY method involves using a tennis ball to unlock your car. Cut a small hole in the ball and press it firmly against the lock. The air pressure from the ball may force the lock to release. This method has worked for some people, but it’s important to note that it’s not a guaranteed solution and may not work on all types of locks.
Use A Smartphone App
If you have a newer car, you may be able to use a smartphone app to unlock your car. Many car manufacturers now offer apps that allow you to unlock your car remotely. However, this method may require that you have a subscription to the manufacturer’s service.
Prevent Future Lockouts
The best way to prevent future lockouts is to be proactive. Always make sure you have your keys in hand before closing the car door. Consider keeping a spare key in a safe location, such as with a trusted family member or friend. You can also invest in a key finder device that will alert you if you’ve left your keys behind.
Conclusion
Locking your keys in the car can be a stressful situation, but it doesn’t have to ruin your day. By taking a deep breath and assessing the situation, calling for professional help, checking for spare keys, and trying DIY methods, you can get back into your car quickly and safely. Remember to be proactive in preventing future lockouts by keeping track of your keys and investing in key finder devices.
FAQs
- Is it safe to try to break into my car on my own?
It’s not recommended to try to break into your car on your own as it can cause damage to the vehicle and may result in injury. It’s best to call for professional help.
- How much does it cost to get a locksmith to unlock my car?
The cost of a locksmith to unlock your car can vary depending on your location and the type of car you have. It’s best to call around and get quotes from multiple locksmiths.
- Can I use a coat hanger to unlock my car?
It is possible to use a coat hanger to unlock your car, but it’s not recommended as it can cause damage to the vehicle if not done correctly.
- How can I prevent future lockouts?
You can prevent future lockouts by being proactive and keeping track of your keys. Consider keeping a spare key in a safe location and investing in a key finder device.
- Can I use a smartphone app to unlock my car?
If you have a newer car, you may be able to use a smartphone app to unlock your car. However, this method may require a subscription to the manufacturer’s service.