How to Get Keys Out of Locked Car
Locking your keys inside your car is a frustrating experience that can happen to anyone. Whether you’ve accidentally left them on the passenger seat, the floor, or in the trunk, it’s a problem that requires quick and safe action. While it's tempting to try and break into your own vehicle, doing so can cause damage and increase your stress. Fortunately, there are several methods you can try to retrieve your keys without damaging the car. This guide will walk you through the most effective steps to get your keys out of a locked car. If you're stuck, consider calling a vehicle lockout service for quick, professional assistance.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
Before attempting to unlock your car, take a deep breath and assess the situation. Ensure that you’re in a safe environment and that there are no immediate threats around your vehicle. Avoid panicking, as this can make the situation more stressful. Check if you have access to any tools that may help, such as a spare key, or if there’s anyone nearby who can assist you.
2. Try Using a Spare Key
The simplest solution might be the one you’ve overlooked. If you have a spare key with you, now is the time to use it. If not, think about whether there are any family members, friends, or neighbors who might have a spare. If your car is close to home or another location where you have spare keys, it might save you time to retrieve one.
3. Using the Manual Locking Mechanism
If your car has manual locks (i.e., the old-fashioned ones with a button or latch), you might be able to unlock it by manipulating the lock with a tool. In some cases, a long, thin object like a coat hanger can be used to push the button or lever that unlocks the door.
Steps:
Straighten the coat hanger, leaving a small hook at the end.
Carefully insert the hook between the window and the rubber seal around the door.
Maneuver the hook to catch the lock button or lever inside the car and pull it up.
This method can be tricky, and it’s essential to be patient and gentle to avoid damaging your car's interior. It’s important to note that this method may not work with modern cars that have more complex locking systems.
Read More: How to Get a Duplicate Car Key
4. Using a Big or Slim Jim Tool
A slim jim is a long, flat metal tool designed to unlock car doors by bypassing the internal locking mechanism. This is a professional tool often used by locksmiths, but in some situations, you can use it yourself. However, using a slim jim improperly can damage the car’s wiring or lock mechanism, so it’s often best to leave this method to professionals if you're unfamiliar with the process.
Steps:
Slide the slim jim between the window and the rubber seal.
Maneuver it until you can feel the internal locking mechanism.
Carefully manipulate the slim jim to disengage the lock.
Again, using this tool requires practice, and without proper knowledge, it can lead to unintended damage. It’s always a good idea to call a professional locksmith if you're unsure.
5. Try the "Big Lifter" Method
Another potential DIY option involves using a “Big Lifter” or “Big Easy” kit. This kit is typically available from locksmith suppliers and works by creating a small gap between the door and the frame of the car. You then use a long reach tool to pull the locking mechanism inside.
Steps:
Use the Big Lifter to carefully create a gap between the door and the frame.
Insert a long reach tool (often included in the kit) to manipulate the car’s locking mechanism.
This method is ideal for cars that don’t have easily accessible manual locks. However, because it involves specialized equipment, you may need to contact a locksmith to get access to these tools.
6. Contact Roadside Assistance or a Locksmith
If DIY methods are not working, or if you want to avoid causing damage to your car, the best option is to contact a roadside assistance service or a professional locksmith. Many insurance policies include coverage for situations like this, so it’s worth checking if your insurer offers this service. Alternatively, a locksmith can quickly come to your location with the right tools to unlock your car without causing any damage.
Roadside Assistance:
Many car manufacturers offer roadside assistance programs that include lockout services.
These services can usually respond to your location and unlock your vehicle quickly.
If your insurance provider includes roadside assistance, they may be able to send a professional locksmith to help.
Locksmith Services:
Professional locksmiths services are trained to unlock all kinds of cars safely and without damage.
Locksmiths use specialized tools, including lock bypass tools and air wedges, to unlock doors.
This option may take a bit longer, but it’s often the safest and most reliable way to get your keys out without damaging the vehicle.
7. Use an Air Wedge to Create Space
For newer cars with sophisticated locking systems, using an air wedge is an effective method. An air wedge is a small inflatable tool that can be inserted between the door and frame, creating enough space to insert a rod or reach tool. This technique is often used by locksmiths to safely unlock doors without damaging the car.
Steps:
Insert the air wedge between the door and the frame.
Slowly inflate the wedge to create a gap.
Once the gap is large enough, use a long reach tool to manipulate the lock from the inside.
While this method is effective, it requires some precision and a bit of patience, so calling a professional might be the best option if you're unfamiliar with the tool.
8. Prevent Future Lockouts
Once you’ve successfully retrieved your keys, take steps to avoid future lockouts. Here are a few preventative measures:
Always have a spare key on hand and leave it with a trusted friend or family member.
Invest in a keyless entry system or a smart key fob to reduce the chances of leaving your keys inside the car.
Keep a lockout kit (like a coat hanger or air wedge) in your car in case you need it.
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