Locking your car keys inside your car can be an incredibly stressful situation. In 2023, Australian RACV Emergency Roadside Assistance (ERA) received over 15,000 callouts for this issue.
This situation can happen to anyone, but knowing what to do is important. This guide will outline the necessary steps to take if you’re locked out of your car. So, without any further ado, let’s check these steps.
Stay relaxed and understand the situation:
The first thing you need is to stay calm and composed. Panic can cloud your assessment and make the situation more complex to handle. Think and assess the situation and ask yourself:
- Are the car keys visible inside the car?
- Is any window or door slightly open?
- Do I have a spare key available?
Check all windows and doors:
Before calling a professional auto locksmith, check all the doors and windows yourself. Sometimes, one might be slightly ajar or unlocked, providing an easy way to access the car. But be careful when opening the doors and windows, as forcing them can damage your car.
Utilize Your Spare Key:
If you have an extra key at home, now is the time to use it. This can save money and time compared to other methods. Having a spare key is always a great idea.
Read this guide: CAN A LOCKSMITH INSTALL A DEADBOLT?
Call for Roadside Assistance:
Many car insurance policies offer roadside assistance services. If you have a membership, call them. They generally have locksmith services included in their packages and can help you unlock your car in a matter of seconds without causing any harm to your car.
Call a Professional Locksmith:
If you don’t have a roadside assistance membership, your next best option is to call professional car locksmith services. They have the modern tools and expertise to unlock your car without causing damage.
Pick a reputable locksmith and get an estimate before starting.
Use advanced technology:
New cars have modern technology that can help in such scenarios. If you have a smartphone app that connects to your car, check if it has a remote unlock feature. Many car brands, such as BMW, Tesla, Lmaborgini, etc., offer these services, allowing car owners to unlock their cars remotely.
Use a Slim Jim:
You can easily uncloak your car if you know about the car mechanism and can access a slim Jim or similar equipment. However, this technique is not recommended as it requires a good understanding of the car locking system and can damage your car if not done correctly.
Use your shoelace or a coat hanger:
You can utilize a coat hanger or shoelace for old model cars that have manual locks fitted. Here’s how to do it:
Coat Hanger Method:
- Straighten the coat hanger and form a small hook at one corner.
- Slide the hanger between the window and weather stripping.
- Attempt to hook the hanger around the car’s lock mechanism and pull it up to open the door.
Shoelace Method:
- Tie a slip knot in the center of the shoelace.
- Operate the shoelace into the door’s crack and maneuver until the knot is near the lock.
- Pull the knot and drag up to unlock the door.
Check this article: CAN A LOCKSMITH MAKE A KEY WITHOUT THE ORIGINAL?
Prevent Future Lockouts
Once you have successfully regained access to your car, take the below steps to prevent future car lockouts:
- Keep an extra key: Store an extra car key securely at home or with a trusted family member.
- Create a routine: Make a habit of checking for your car keys before locking the car.
Olympia Locksmiths – connect with the best in the business
At Olympia Locksmith, we specialize in expert car locksmith services you can trust. With all the essential licenses and certifications, we offer reliable, professional, and cost-friendly solutions. Our team of experts knows the ins and outs of emergency lockouts and uses modern equipment and advanced tools to guarantee efficient service.
Ready to get back on the road? Call us or schedule a meeting with one of our representatives today. Your convenience and security are our top priorities.
