How to Prevent a Lockout Car
If you've ever been locked out, you know how stressful it can be. There are a variety of options you can take to avoid this occurring again in the future.
First, you must always have a spare key at the go. In addition, you should consider investing in a roadside assistance service. These services come with many benefits, such as one free lockout each year.
1. Call for Help
A car lockout could occur for many reasons. You might have locked your keys in the car after closing the door, or you may not be able to access the vehicle due to having been damaged by a crash or the burglar. In any event it's crucial to remain calm and call an expert for assistance instead of trying to fix the issue yourself.
Keep the contact details of an emergency roadside assistance or locksmith in your wallet or on your phone. Certain service providers offer lockout services at affordable prices and are accessible 24/7. Certain companies have mobile apps that let you unlock your vehicle by tapping. These apps are particularly useful if you're in a rush and have forgotten your keys in the car.
Over time, rust and dirt can accumulate in your locks, which can cause them to become stuck or stop opening. The key fob may also lose its programming or the car's receiver could malfunction. Whatever the reason an expert can restore your vehicle's access by employing the most advanced tools and techniques.
In the past, police officers could help you unlock your car with tools like the slim Jim. Most officers are no longer able to assist you unless the car was abandoned by a pet or a kid. It is recommended to call 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 anyplace. If you have a current model, make sure to check the manufacturer's website for this information.
2. Use a Spare Key
One of the most effective ways to avoid a lockout is to carry a spare key with you. This is as simple as keeping it in a pocket, purse or backpack that you carry with you everywhere. A magnetic key safe is a different option. It will keep your keys safe and easily accessible. Place it in a spot that's hard for car thieves to locate and use, like the underside of your vehicle.
If you don't own a spare, it is recommended to make arrangements with someone who has one. If you happen to leave your keys inside a vehicle belonging to a family member or friend they'll have the tools needed to open it up so you can return to the road. This is a great idea if there are children in your vehicle. It is best to be prepared for any unexpected situation.
If you don't have a family member or friend available, the next step is to call roadside assistance or the roadside assistance offered by the automaker. These programs usually come with a technician equipped with special wedges and long-reach tool sets which can open your car's door. Make sure to check your auto insurance policy as a lot of policies cover car locks.
If you don't have a wedge or other tool, try a more invasive but less destructive approach for picking the lock, like using a shoelace or a coat hanger made of wire to pick the door lock. This is more risky than other alternatives, and it's not easy for modern vehicles that use sophisticated locking mechanisms. If you're not able to unlock your vehicle with these methods, it's recommended to seek professional assistance.
3. Use a Wedge or Long-Reach Tool
The wedge or long-reach is a must-have item in any lockout kit for cars. It lets you unlock your car without damaging the door, and without putting yourself or others at risk. This tool can be utilized by putting it into the space between the door frame and window. This will allow you to manipulate the inner lock mechanism. Depending on what type of lock is in your car the wedge might require to be moved horizontally or vertically in order to ensure it hooks onto the locking mechanism.
Another great car lockout tool is a coat hanger made of wire that can be cut into various shapes and used to press buttons or raise door handles. This is a great choice because it's easy, cheap, and effective. The only downside to using this tool is that it could be difficult to manipulate the hook's metal to position it when you need to reach behind the door and then stick the bent end of the coat hanger in the door.
Another useful car lockout tool is an air wedge which is a foam or plastic device that can be placed between the window and the frame of the door to create a gap that permits you to put a long-reach tool into it. Air wedges can also be filled slowly, which prevents the creation of excessive pressure or causing damage to the window frame or door. In addition to air wedges Zip's AW Direct also carries long-reach tools for cars from Steck and Access Tools.
4. Use a door stopper
You can use a car door stop to open the gap in your car that will let you access the locking 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 made a tiny hole, you can then insert the rod of metal and push down on the button to unlock inside the door. This method is best suited for vehicles that have electronic locks, however it can work with regular locks too.
A shoelace is a different tool that you can utilize to unlock your car. Make a slip knot in the middle of the shoelace. You can tighten it by pulling both ends. Then, thread one end of the shoelace through the frame's corner of the door, and then move it around the lock. Once locked myself out my car put the shoelace on top of the button to lock, pull it upwards to open the car.
Make sure the door is secured prior to trying this method. This method may also not work for cars with an interior hook lock.
If you're still locked out, contact roadside assistance. This service is covered by AAA or other memberships. Some automakers offer apps that can be downloaded to unlock your car if it is locked out. Talk to your car manufacturer to determine if there's an option for your model. You can also search for recommendations for a local locksmith online. They offer competitive rates and can assist you to get back into your car.
5. Use a Wire Hanger
Being locked out of your car can be a nightmare however, there are plenty of tools you can use to get back in. Utilizing the Slim Jim or modified wire coat hanger is an easy way to get into your car without damaging it. You could also utilize shoelaces or credit cards to unlock your car's door. You must remain calm and rational to determine the best solution.
To hang a coat, start by straightening it as far as you can. Insert the end of the coat hanger into the space between your car's doors and window. You may need to wiggle it around a bit to find the perfect spot, but once you do then, you can hook the end of the hanger around the lock and push it up on it. If this doesn't work then try it again or call roadside assistance.
To avoid lockouts in the future to prevent lockouts in the future, carry a spare key and place a doorstop underneath your door to isolate it from the frame of your car and think about installing an alarm system for additional security. Be careful when closing your car and make sure you check the doors before you leave. You can avoid getting stuck in your car by following these guidelines.