Locked Keys in car door open (you can look here)? Here’s How to Open Your Car Without Damage
Don’t panic if you’ve locked the keys in your car. There are many tricks you can try before calling a locksmith or a roadside assistance service.
For instance, you could using a shoelace that has an elastic slip knot to lift the post lock. Or you can untwist a coathanger wire and shape it into hook. You can also use an inflatable wedge or a door wedge.
Pump Wedge
If you’ve been trapped in a locked car and no DIY solutions such as wire hangers, shoestrings or wedges work then it’s time to call in a professional. A locksmith or repo service provider could have special lockout tools that can help you open your vehicle without damaging it.
Use them correctly If they are available. Know where to insert the wedge tool. A lot of people place the wedge tool in the top corner of the door, which is the most vulnerable. This is not a good idea because you could damage the weather stripping and wires within the doors. Instead, put the wedge in the largest portion of the gap that you can see and in the area where it has the most leverage.
The Pump Wedge is an inflatable wedge made from heavy duty vinyl that won’t scratch the surface. It is able to slide between the vehicle door and the door frame. It is filled with air to create a separation that allows you to slide in other tools, such as a long reach car opening tool rod. It has a hook at one end that you can form to grasp the latch on the door handle.
A less expensive alternative is a pair of wooden door stops. You can use them to pry open the gap between the back of the door. You can also try using the slim jim that is a thin metal strip that can be bent into a hook to latch to the lock and then pull it up. This method is not for the faint-hearted as you must be careful not damage the weather stripping that is on your door.
A shoelace is another good alternative, but it’s only with older cars that don’t have a push button for unlocking. You can tie knots in the middle, and then move the lace along the door seam until you locate the latch. Then, move the lace up and down until it catches on the lock. Tighten the slip knot and pull it upwards. This is more difficult and could scratch the paint on the door or scratch the trim if not done with care.
Inflatable Wedge
If you have a wedge-shaped inflatable car door opener, you’ll be able to open your car open services without the necessity of prying or slim jim tools. These wedges can be placed between the frame and the window of the car and, when inflated, create a large opening to insert a tool that has a long reach like a button grabper or slim jim. This method is less dangerous than using tools for prying and is suitable when you do not have an screwdriver.
Another option for unlocking a car without damaging the exterior or interior is to utilize a coat hanger that has been bent into a hook shape. This can be used to grasp the lock button, and it may be more effective than a flat screwdriver since it is less likely to cause damage to the paint of your car. However, you should examine the other doors to make sure there’s no other means to gain access to the door.
You can also try an old plastic bag that has been bent into a noose-like or v-shaped shape, but you will need to be careful not to tear it, because this could make the situation even more complicated. This technique is especially helpful in the event that you cannot locate the lock button. It may not be as reliable as using an iron wedge or coat hanger, but it can be helpful when you are in an uneasy situation.
The best advice we can offer you regarding getting locked out of your vehicle is to be at peace and focus on safety. There are many options to deal with this issue. If you read this article, you’ll be prepared for any scenario that may arise. By following the steps we’ve provided, you will be able to unlock your car and get going without causing unnecessary stress or damage. If you can, bring your keys along when you leave your vehicle.
Shoelace
It’s one of the “oh crap!” moments that can cause a lot of trouble. In the event of an emergency, it’s a good idea keep a few items in your possession that can aid in unlocking your car without breaking the windows. Certain of these items are easily accessible and will save you money on locksmiths, or the time required to get roadside assistance.
A shoelace, or even twine, is an excellent tool to unlock a car. It is easy to use and works on various automobiles. This method only works on cars that have post locks. They can be stacked vertically on the window sill and easily accessible from outside the car. Use a shoelace as well as an elongated slip knot to get the job done. Then, you can slide the shoelace into the gap between windows and doors. Once the slip knot is placed and secured, pull both ends the string upwards to lasso the lock.
This method is more effective when applied to older vehicles. It may not work with newer models that have an interior hook lock. A screwdriver, if it’s available is a good tool to open the door in a more aggressive manner. You can also use a pole that you can grab from a nearby object like a doorframe, or a piece wood, to stick into the window frame. This will create space for rods to push the interior locking button.
Although the methods above might be somewhat safe for some drivers, it is best to seek assistance if you can. This can help avoid further damage to the vehicle and reduce the risk of a crash due to stress. If you don’t have a phone or aren’t able to call for help, remember that it’s important to let trusted friends and family members know where your car is at all times. A spare set of keys should be kept in a secure place on your vehicle.
Wire Hanger
There is no doubt that locking your keys in your car can be a stressful situation. It is important to remain calm and think about all options rationally. You will not make the situation worse if don’t panic.
One of the most effective things you can do is use a modified wire coat hanger to access your vehicle. You’ll have to unravel the coat hanger so that it has a straight edge and a hook that you can use to manipulate the lock rod inside your door. When you have reached the rod of your lock you should be capable of pulling it up and allow you to open the door.
You can also make use of a rod, or even a metal piece from your car. You must ensure that you don’t damage the vehicle in this process. It is recommended to avoid disassembling the car. This method is more effective on older cars than on newer models. However it can be utilized on cars with unique outer door handles.
You can also use a shoestring and an slip knot to accomplish a similar trick. This can be done on a postlock, however it is more difficult to maneuver because you’ll rely on the tension of the string to nab it. The best way to do this is to thread the shoestring through a small hole you can make in the weatherstripping of the door of your vehicle. After the shoestring has passed through the weatherstripping, you are able to pull it tight to form an elongated loop that snaps around the lock. This method is extremely effective if you’re lucky enough to find the lock in the proper location.