How to Prevent a Lockout Car
If you’ve ever locked out of your car, you know it’s a frustrating experience. Thankfully, there are several ways to prevent this from occurring again in the future.
Always keep a spare car key in your possession. You should also consider investing in roadside assistance services. These services provide a variety of benefits, such as a free lockout every year.
1. Call for Help
A car lockout could be the result of a variety of reasons. It could be that you locked your keys in the car when closing the door, or you may not be able enter the vehicle because it has been damaged by a crash or an intruder. In any case it’s essential to remain at peace and contact an expert rather than trying to fix the issue yourself.
Keep the contact information of a locksmith or roadside assistance in your wallet or on your phone. Some service providers provide locksmith services for a reasonable price and are available 24 hours a day. Certain companies have mobile apps that let you unlock your car with a simple tap. These apps are particularly helpful when you’re in a hurry and have to close the door, only to realize that your keys are in the car.
Over time, dirt, rust and impurities build up within your locks, making them stop working or impossible to open. The key fob can be lost in its programming, or the receiver in your car could malfunction. A professional can give access to your car using sophisticated tools and methods.
In the past the past, police officers were competent to assist you in a lockout car situation by using tools like a slim jim. However, most officers no longer provide this assistance in the event that the vehicle is left by a child or pet. It’s best to contact the police with a non-emergency number instead. A lot of newer vehicles come with an app for mobile devices that lets you to unlock your car from anywhere. Visit the website of your automaker if you have a newer model.
2. Use a spare key
One of the best methods to avoid being locked out is to keep a spare key with you. This is as simple as keeping it in a purse, pocket or backpack that takes you everywhere. Another option is to purchase the magnetic key safe which will keep your keys safe and easy to find. Place it in a spot that’s hard for car thieves to locate and access, such as the underside your car.
If you don’t have spare keys, it’s recommended to find someone who does. If you put your keys in the vehicle of a friend or family member they’ll have the tools to open it up so you can get back on the road. This is an especially good idea for families with young children traveling with you. It’s best to be prepared as you can for unexpected events.
In the event that you don’t have an immediate family member or friend available, the next step is to contact roadside assistance or the automaker’s roadside assistance. These programs typically have trained technicians who have specially designed wedges and long-reach devices that can unlock your car lockouts‘s door. It’s also a good time to check your auto insurance policy, since many insurance companies offer insurance for automotive lockouts of vehicles.
If you don’t own tools or wedges alternatively, you can utilize a less destructive but destructive method of picking the lock, like a shoelace, or a wire coathanger. However, this is more risky than other methods and can be difficult to do in modern vehicles that have sophisticated locking mechanisms. If you’re unable to unlock your vehicle by using these methods, it’s best to seek professional assistance.
3. Make use of a wedge or a long-reach tool
A wedge or long-reach tool is an essential component to have in your car lockout kit, allowing you to unlock your car without damaging the door or putting yourself at risk. The easiest way to use this tool is to insert it between the door and window frame, allowing enough space for you to move the inner locking mechanism. Based on the type of lock you have in your car, you may have to maneuver the wedge horizontally or vertically until it connects to the locking mechanism and opens the door.
Another fantastic tool for locking your car is a coat hanger made of wire, which can be fashioned into various shapes and then used to push buttons or raise door handles. This is a great solution because it’s easy, cheap, and effective. This tool has one drawback: it can be difficult to put the metal hook in place when you need to reach behind the door’s panels and insert the bent end.
Air wedges are a useful tool for unlocking a car. They are made of plastic or foam and inserted between the window frame and the door frame. This creates a gap in which you can insert the tool that has a lengthy reach. Air wedges can also be inflated slowly, which stops them from causing excessive pressure or causing damage to the door or window frame. Zip’s AW Direct carries air wedges along with long-reach car tools from Steck and Access Tools.
4. Use a door stopper
You can make use of a door stop to pry open a gap in your car that allows you to reach the lock button. According to YouTube user assertivecrystalgg45, the key is to slide the door stop between the top part of the window frame and the body of the vehicle without damaging the paint. Once you’ve created a small opening where you can put a long metal rod to push down on the unlock button inside the door. This method is suitable for vehicles that have electronic locks. However, it can also be used with regular locks.
Another simple tool you can use to unlock your car is a shoelace. Take a shoelace and tie a slip knot in the middle. You can tighten by pulling on both ends. Then, thread the end of the shoelace into the door’s corner frame and maneuver it around the button for locking. Once you’ve put the shoelace on top of the lock button, pull it upwards to open the car.
Check to make sure that the door is secured prior to attempting this method. In addition, this method may not work for cars with hooks on the interior lock.
If you’re locked out of your vehicle, try calling for assistance at the roadside if you have AAA or another membership that provides this service. Certain automakers also provide download applications that can assist you in gaining access to your vehicle in the event of a lockout. Check with your carmaker to determine if there’s an option that works with your particular model. You can also find recommendations for a locksmith in your area online. They usually offer competitive pricing and can assist you in getting back in your car fast.
5. Use a wire hanger
Getting accidentally locked keys in car out of your car can be stressful, but there are many tools that you can utilize to get back inside. Using a Slim Jim or modified wire coat hanger is an easy method to get into your car without damaging it. You can also use shoelaces or credit cards to unlock your car door. Whatever method you choose be sure to remain calm and think clearly to determine the most efficient solution for your specific situation.
To use a hanger, first straighten it as best you can. Then, place the end of the coat hanger between your car’s doors and window. You may need to wiggle it around to find the right place however once you have found the right spot connect the end of the hanger around the lock and push it up on it. If you’re not successful then try it again or call roadside assistance.
You can prevent future lockouts by having a spare key. You can also put an entrance step underneath your door to keep it away from the vehicle frame. Consider installing an alarm system for added security. Additionally, you should take your time when locking your car and be sure to check all the doors before driving off. By following these tips you will avoid getting stuck in your car and save yourself lots of trouble in the future.