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 scenario. This is a scenario that you can deal with.
There are ways to ensure that you don’t get locked out in the future, such as having spare keys stored somewhere safe and secure. You can also include roadside assistance to your vehicle, which covers breakdowns and helps drivers get back on their feet.
Locking the Doors
It can be an embarrassing moment when you lock your keys inside your car. If you’re fortunate there’s you have a family member or a friend who is nearby and can unlock the car door without causing any damage. If not, it could be fairly easy to get back into your vehicle using the proper tools. It all depends on the type of car you drive and the kind of locks fitted to it.
For example, if your car has manual locks rather than sensor-operated ones, you can make use of a thin rod or wire to open the doors. You can use a wire coathanger bent into a lasso shape or, in newer vehicles, the rod that is built into your key fob. You can also find “lock picking” kits in a variety of hardware stores that have the rod made of metal as well as instructions to help unlock the door of your car.
To make use of this method, you need to identify where the “unlock” switch is located. It can be found close to the key fob or on a panel that is visible through the windscreen. Once you know this information, you can use a rod or coat hanger to create a gap between the car’s door and the frame or window. Then, you can go inside and press the button.
Check if your door locks are equipped with a release button that you can press to open them. Some modern automobiles have these switches in the trunk, typically on the side closest to the seats. You can also try the emergency release tab that folds the seat down so you can crawl into the trunk to grab your keys.
If none of these solutions work, then you’ll need to seek assistance. You might want to enlist the assistance of a friend who owns the same make and model as your car or ask your car dealer to cut you a new one. You can purchase an additional key for a lot less than if you hired locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
It’s not a great idea to lock the trunk of your vehicle unless you are trying to keep valuables out of sight. It is an excellent way to keep thieves out of your stuff, it also keeps you from opening the trunk without using your key fob. You can solve this problem by concealing a spare car keys under the rear bumper well or inside the trunk. This method isn’t 100% secure and can be easily spotted by thieves, however it can deter them from trying to open your trunk.
Modern cars have gone to great lengths to ensure that only the key fob will be able to unlock the trunk. Many manufacturers have placed the trunk release lever in the cabin or the back seat to protect your valuables. You can still save money if you employ Slim Jim Slim Jim, or call roadside assistance instead of hiring a locksmith.
You can use a wire hanger to try to open the trunk of your car. However, you need to be careful not to damage the paint job. It is also necessary to bend the hanger on one side to create an elongated hook. After that, slide the hook into the gap between the back of the seat and the trunk. You’ll know if you’ve used the right lever or button if you feel resistance.
If you have access to the cab of the vehicle, you could also push a button located in the front cabin to open the trunk. This method isn’t 100% secure since a burglar could look at the button and be aware that your valuables are in the trunk.
The other method involves using the latch mechanism to unlock the trunk. This is a simple method however it is only effective in the event that your car is not fully charged and you can hear the door locks clicking when you press them. It is also possible that the engine has to be running to turn on the latch.
Checking the Battery
If you are unable to unlock the doors using any of the methods listed above, it’s possible that you have a dead battery on your key fob. The good news is that most car fobs have a built-in emergency key that can be used to open the door for the driver when it is locked. It is typically a separate key that came with the car, or it can be found in the center console or in the glove compartment.
Most often an obstruction in the lock’s cylinder can be the reason why keys don’t work in the ignition. This could be due to dirt, grime or other debris that gets into the lock and prevents the pins from dropping properly when you insert the key. A flashlight and compressed air are fantastic tools to find any obstructions in the lock’s cylinder. If you’re cautious you can clear the obstructions and ensure your key is working in the ignition when required.
Damage to the cylinder could cause a car to not start. In this scenario, the lock cylinder could be damaged and requires to be replaced. This can be a costly repair, however, there are ways to temporarily fix this problem.
For instance, you could use a wire hanger remove a small piece of trim on the door handle or the panel where the key cylinder is located. This method is not recommended for those who are brand new to DIY projects. It isn’t easy and could damage your vehicle. You should also make sure to shut off your car completely prior to beginning any work.
It can be frustrating to lock your keys accidentally in your car. It is important to remain calm and use the advice above to help you retrieve keys in a safe manner without causing additional damage to your vehicle. If you’re able to then, you should consult your insurance company to see if key replacement is covered under your policy.
Need Help?
There are a few things you should do before you call for help if you’ve locked the keys locked in Vehicle to your car. First, if you’re at home and have a spare key, have someone bring it to you, and then open your car using that method. This will help you avoid needing to pay a locksmith for an emergency service call. You could also call an acquaintance or family member to find out if he or has the key. Many people keep a spare key in their home or at work, so they can come get you when you’re locked out of your vehicle. Third, contact roadside assistance companies such as AAA. They have kits specifically designed to open vehicles and are capable of opening your vehicle at a lower cost than the locksmith near me open now would cost. They will need your VIN (located near the front wiper on the windshield) and proof of ownership to unlock it.
If the emergency is urgent and you have an infant or pet in your vehicle, dial 911 immediately. They will send police to your location and utilize special equipment or methods to remove the animal or child out of the vehicle. This could involve using a slim jim to open the door or breaking the window.
Getting your car keys locked in the vehicle is never enjoyable, but it could be a minor inconvenience in the majority of cases. By following these guidelines, you avoid being stranded and make a plan for the next time this occurs.
Drivers can take additional steps to avoid being stuck in their vehicle in the future. For example you can download the app of the manufacturer of their vehicle or keep the spare key in a convenient location outside the vehicle. In addition, Moody recommends that drivers contact their car manufacturer to request an alternative key and to purchase a roadside assistance plan that covers lockout assistance. This could save you money in the long run, as getting locked out of your car is usually covered by this kind of coverage.