How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle
Locking keys in the car is a frequent event, and can cause anxiety. But, this is a situation which can be handled.
You can avoid being locked out by keeping spare keys in a safe and secure location. You can also include a roadside service to your vehicle. This will cover breakdowns and helps you get back on the road.
Locking the Doors
When you lock your keys inside your car, it can be embarrassing. In the best-case scenario, you have a friend or family member nearby who can open the door for you without damaging your vehicle. If not, it will still be relatively simple to get back inside your vehicle using the proper tools. The type of vehicle you use and the locks you have installed in it will determine how easy it will be to get back inside.
If your car's locks are manual and not sensor-operated, you can open the doors by using an incredibly thin rod or wire. You can use a coathanger made of wire bent into a lasso shape or, for newer automobiles, the rod built into your key fob. A lot of hardware stores offer "lock picking" sets that include a metal rod and instructions for unlocking your car's doors.
You must first identify the location of the "unlock" button. It can be found near the key fob or on a panel that is visible through the windscreen. Once you have this information, use a rod or coat hanger in order to create a space between the door of the car and the frame or window. You can then reach in and press the button to unlock the door.
Another thing to consider is whether your door locks have an opening switch that you can push to unlock them. A few of the latest automobiles have these switches in the trunk, generally on the side closest to the seats. keys locked in vehicle can also use the emergency release tab to fold down the seat and crawl into the trunk.
If none of these methods work, it's time to contact a professional. You might want to enlist the assistance of a friend who owns the same model and model of car as you do or ask your auto dealer to cut you a new key. They can do this for less than what you'd pay for a locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
It's not a great idea to lock the trunk of your vehicle unless you intend to conceal valuables. It is a good way to protect your possessions, but it also prevents the trunk from being opened by a key fob. However, you can get around this problem by hiding a spare key under the rear fender well, or on the floor of the trunk. This method is not foolproof and can be easily spotted by thieves, but it can keep thieves from attempting to open your trunk.
Modern cars have gone to great lengths to make sure that their trunks are only able to be opened by those with the key fob. A lot of manufacturers have put the trunk release lever in the cabin or the back seat to protect your valuables. You can still save money if use Slim Jim Slim Jim, or call roadside assistance rather than hiring locksmith.
You can open your trunk with a wire hanger. But, you must be careful not to scratch the paint job. You'll need to bend the hanger on one end so that it has a hook. After that, slide the hook into the gap between the back of the seat and the trunk. If you are able to feel resistance, you have located the lever or button that opens the trunk.
You can also open the trunk if you have access to your car's front cabin. This is done by pressing a button inside the cabin. However, this isn't an absolute security measure since it is possible for a burglar to see the button and realize that you have valuables in the trunk.
Another method is to unlock the trunk using the latch mechanism. This is a straightforward method to accomplish this however it is only effective in the event that your car is not fully charged and you hear the door locks click when you press them. The engine might also have to be running in order to activate the latch.
Examining the Battery
It is possible that the battery in your key fob has gone out of service if you can't open the door by using any of the methods listed above. Most car fobs come with an emergency key that you can use to unlock the door of the driver when it is locked. It is usually an additional key that was included with the vehicle or could be located in the glove compartment or in the center console.
The most common reason why the car key won't turn in the ignition is because there is an obstruction in the lock's cylinder. Dirt, grime, or other debris could cause this issue. It blocks the pins from dropping correctly when you insert your key. A flashlight and compressed air are great tools to help you locate any obstructions in the lock cylinder. If you're cautious you can get rid of the debris and ensure your key works when you need it.
Another reason that may cause a car key to not turn the ignition is damage to the cylinder itself. In this instance, it is likely that the lock cylinder is damaged and needs to be replaced. This can be an expensive repair however there are options to solve the issue temporarily.
For instance, you could using a wire hook to pry off a tiny portion of the door handle where the key cylinder resides. This is not a good idea for those who are brand new to DIY projects. It can be difficult and could damage your vehicle. Also, make sure to turn off the car completely prior to beginning any work.
It can be very frustrating to lock your keys accidentally in your car. It's important to be calm and follow the advice above to help you retrieve keys safely and without causing additional damage to your vehicle. If you can then, you should check with your insurance provider to determine if the replacement of your key is covered under your policy.
Need help?
Before calling for help when you have locked your keys in your vehicle There are a few things that you can do. If you have a spare car key at home, ask someone to bring it in to unlock your car. This will help you avoid having to pay an emergency locksmith service call. You can also contact an acquaintance or family member to see if has the key. Many people keep a spare car key at work or at home, so they can help you in case you've locked yourself out. Third, call roadside assistance companies such as AAA. They have special kits to open vehicles and are in a position to open your car for much less than the locksmith would charge. They will need your VIN (located close to the front windshield wiper) and proof ownership to unlock it.
If the situation is urgent and have a small child or pet inside your vehicle, call 911 immediately. They will send police to your location to safely remove the animal or child from the vehicle. This could involve using a small jim to open the door or breaking a window.
It's not enjoyable to lock your keys in your car, but in most instances, it's just an inconvenience of a minor nature. Following these tips will help you avoid being stuck and make a plan for the next time this happens.
Drivers can take other steps to avoid being stuck in their vehicle in the future. For example they can download the app of the manufacturer of their vehicle or keep a spare key in a convenient location outside the vehicle. In addition, Moody recommends that drivers contact their manufacturer to obtain an alternative key and to buy a roadside assistance plan which covers lockout assistance. This will save money over time, as most roadside assistance plans offer assistance with lockouts.