How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle
It is not unusual to lock your keys inside the vehicle. This could be a stressful scenario. But this is a situation that can be dealt with.
There are ways to prevent getting locked out in the future, which includes storing spare keys somewhere safe and secure. You can also include roadside assistance to your vehicle, which covers breakdowns and assists drivers in getting back on their feet.
Locking the Doors
It's an embarrassing moment when you lock your keys in your car. In the best-case scenario there is an acquaintance or family member nearby who can come unlock the door for you, without causing damage to your vehicle. It is still possible to access your car with the right tools, even if do not have a friend or family member in the vicinity. It all depends on the type of car you drive and the type of locks installed in it.
For instance, if your vehicle has manual locks rather than sensor-operated locks, you can make use of a thin rod or wire to unlock the doors. You can use a wire coathanger bent into a lasso shape or, in more modern automobiles, the rod is integrated into the key fob. Many hardware stores offer "lock picking" sets with a rod of metal and instructions for unlocking your car's doors.
You must first identify the location of the "unlock" button. It could be near the key fob, or it could be on a panel in the front of the vehicle that is visible from the windshield. Once you have this information, use a rod or coat hanger to create a gap between the car's door and the window frame or frame. Then unlock car door service can open the door and press the button to unlock the door.
The other thing to check is whether your door locks have release switches that you can press to open them. Certain cars, particularly ones that are more recent, have this in the trunk. It's usually located near the passenger seat. You can also utilize the emergency release button to fold the seat down and crawl into the trunk.
If none of these solutions work, then you'll need to seek assistance. You could ask a friend to help you, if they have the same car as yours. You could also ask your auto dealer to create a new key. You can purchase a new key for a lot cheaper than if you hire a locksmith.
Locking the Trunk
It is not a good idea to secure the trunk of your vehicle unless you intend to conceal valuables. It is ideal to keep thieves out of your belongings, it also hinders opening the trunk without using your key fob. You can solve this problem by concealing a spare car keys under the rear bumper or inside the trunk. This isn't foolproof and can be easily spotted by thieves, however it could keep them from trying to open your trunk.
Modern cars have gone to extreme lengths to ensure that their trunks can only be opened by a person with a key fob. Many manufacturers have put the trunk release lever in the cabin or on the back seat to protect your valuables. The good news is that you can save money by using Slim Jim Slim Jim or calling roadside assistance instead of hiring a locksmith.
You can make use of a wire hanger to attempt to open the trunk of your vehicle. Be careful to not damage the paintwork. You will need to bend the hanger on one end to form hooks. Then, insert the hook between the trunk and the back of the seat. You'll know you've got the right button or lever if you feel a slight resistance.
You can also open the trunk if you have access to the front cabin. This is done by pressing a button inside the cabin. This method is not foolproof because a burglar can see the button and be aware that your valuables are in the trunk.
The other method involves using the latch mechanism to open the trunk. This is an easy method to accomplish this however it only works in the event that your car is not fully charged and you hear the door locks clicking when you press them. The engine might also have to be running to activate the latch.
Examining the Battery
If you're unable to unlock the doors with any of the methods described above, it is likely that you have a dead battery in your key fob. Most car fobs come with an emergency key that you can use to unlock the door of the driver if locked. This is usually a separate key that is included with the vehicle or can be located in the glove box or in the center console.
Usually, a blockage in the lock cylinder is the reason why a key won't work in the ignition. Dirt, grime, or other debris can cause this problem. It blocks the pins from dropping correctly when you insert your key. You can use compressed air and flashlights to identify any obstructions within the lock cylinder. If you're careful you can clear the debris and make sure your key will work when you need it.
Damage to the cylinder may also cause a car not turn on. In this case it is likely the lock cylinder has been damaged and must be replaced. This could be a costly repair however, there are solutions to fix the problem temporarily.
For instance, you can use a wire hanger to take off a small portion of trim from the door handle or on the panel in which the key cylinder is situated. However, this method is not recommended if you don't have a lot of experience in DIY projects as it can be difficult to do and may cause damage to your vehicle. You should also make sure to turn off the car completely before beginning any work.
It can be very frustrating to lock your keys accidentally in your car. You should remain calm and follow these guidelines to safely retrieve your keys without creating further damage to your vehicle. You should also look over your insurance policy to see whether the replacement of keys is covered.
Calling for help
Before you call for assistance in the event that you lock your keys inside your vehicle There are a few things that you can do. If you have a spare car key at home and you need someone to bring it, ask them to bring it in to unlock your car. You will not have to pay for an emergency locksmith service. Second, try using a family member's or friend's phone to find out whether they have the key. Many people keep spare keys to their cars at work or at home to help if you've locked yourself out. Third, call roadside assistance services like AAA. They have kits specifically designed to open vehicles and will be able to open yours for a fraction of the cost locksmiths would charge. However, they will need to know your VIN number (visible on the front windshield wiper) and evidence of ownership to be able to do this.
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 remove the child or animal from the vehicle. This could include using an ice-breaker to break a window, or even open the door to the car.
It's not enjoyable to lock your keys inside your vehicle, but in the majority of cases it's a minor inconvenience. By following these tips to avoid getting stranded in the vehicle and plan a course of actions for the next time it occurs to you.
Drivers can take other steps to avoid getting stuck in their car in the future. For instance you can download the app of the manufacturer of their vehicle or keep the spare key in a convenient location outside the vehicle. Moody also recommends that motorists purchase a roadside assistance plan that provides assistance for locking out and contacting their car manufacturer to get an alternative key. This will save money over time, as most roadside assistance plans offer assistance with lockouts.