One of the most frustrating things that can happen to you is locking your keys inside the car, assuming you don’t own a spare set. Locking your keys inside the vehicle will force you to figure out a way to open it. Now, this may sound like a tricky issue. Luckily, we did some research to help you. Choosing the proper method for unlocking your car depends on a few factors, including the type of vehicles, type of lock, and the tools you own. If you’re experiencing the same situation, here is what to do when you lock your keys in your car.
1. Owning a Spare Key
One of the most non-intrusive methods to open your vehicle when the keys are stuck inside is making sure you have another one. Now, we know this might sound obvious; however, to prevent any similar situations, make sure you or your family members own a spare set of keys.
Some people experience these kinds of troubles often and leave the spare key in the car often. This might be a wrong idea, especially since some thieves are very experienced at opening locked vehicles, so avoid this option. The best idea is to keep your spare key in your purse or bag just to be safe.
Also, and this might seem like nonsense, but various individuals reported that you should always check all of the doors your car holds since some could be open. People often call assistance just to find out the car’s back door has been open all of the time.
2. Tennis Ball
Although we’re skeptical about this method, a vast part of user reviews states that making a hole in the tennis ball and then placing it over the keyhole. This principle leans on the air force to open the locked car.
If you are not sure how to do it properly, there are various online guides with video content to help.
3. Shoelace
We must state that this option might be a timely process and will only work with a car that has a pull-up lock mechanism. The most important thing about this method is that you’ll undoubtedly have a shoelace by your side at any given time; therefore, use this option in an emergency. Follow the next steps:
- Tie a small to medium loop depending on the size and type of the car
- Make sure to get the loop around the given lock and pull up
4. Horizontal Locks and Coat Hangers
Coat hangers only work with horizontal locks by untwisting the wire, making a hook, and working it into the door. The next step is getting the hook around the lock and pulling it.
5. An Inflatable Wedge
Using an inflatable wedge is a similar principle to using a screwdriver described in the next paragraph. This method uses air to open the locked doors, but this tool can be pretty expensive.
6. Use A Screwdriver, Spatula or A Plastic Strip
Suppose you choose to use an invasive tool (screwdriver); remember to be extremely cautious since this process might damage both the interior and the car’s exterior. The principle is straightforward and includes producing a bit of space with the screwdriver while pushing the lock with a rod tool. You can also choose the spatula which works on the same principle as the previous method. All you need to do is enter a lever and prong the car door creating space to push the spatula in, and simply lift the lock. Some user reviews state that another similar option might be the safest-using a plastic strip. Wind the strip, put it in the door frame, and lift the lock.
7. Call Assistance
There are various emergency programs, car assistance providers, and companies that might help with the above-mentioned issue.
Don’t forget that local car dealers are a great option if they’re located moderately close (if you drive an Audi, you should contact an Audi car dealer) and tell them the model of your car and the year it was produced. But, you should know that the spare keys local car dealers will provide for you will only open the car. They will not enable you to drive. Also, you will need to prove that you own the car, which means the local car dealers will not help if you borrowed a car from your friend, family, or neighbor.
8. Forced Entry
This is the least recommended option since it is pretty dangerous and will permanently damage your car. However, those that tried all other options might not have a choice. You will need a long (metal) rod, and you can start breaking the windows. We recommend putting duck tape on the windows to prevent shattering of glass and minimize the damage. This is the last option you d want to use in cases of severe emergencies, although we advise calling assistance or the police department.
9. Lock Picking
A couple of options include lock picking: buy a professional lock picking toolset if you already know how to do it or hire a professional locksmith since they own all the tools and skills needed for cracking the lock. Just make sure the locksmith you choose is reliable, so always go local. They can provide car keys duplication service and emergency car lockout.
Warning: Finding a coin in your door handle
If your car is parked and you find a coin or a similar object in the door handle, it is highly likely that your car will be robbed, so it’s best to call the police because the lock will not work correctly.
Summary
In general, locking your keys in your car is a pretty stressful situation. But there is no need for despair because there is a solid number of options that can help, including:
- Making sure you own a spare key
- Opening the car with a tennis ball by using air pressure
- Using a shoelace, a coat hanger, an inflatable wedge
- Or, using a screwdriver and a rig, a spatula, or a plastic strip
- Calling assistance
- Forced Entry, and
- Lock picking