Finding keys inside the locked car is one of the most frustrating things. It happens to everyone at some point, whether you are getting late or having a busy day. It can make you feel helpless.
But you need not worry because you can fix it in several ways, and you don’t even need to replace the locks or break a window.
What should I do when I find myself with locked keys in car? This guide will train you regarding this problem. With some simple steps, we can help you unlock your vehicle quickly and safely.
What to Do Immediately After Keys Are Locked in Car
Stay calm and think wisely
First of all, you are supposed not to panic or be enraged under such circumstances. Of course, this will still spoil things. But be calm and think straightforwardly about the problem. If you remain peaceful, you begin finding the best possible solution to enter your car quickly and safely.
Assess Your Situation
Sometimes, you leave one door slightly open by mistake, or your window is cracked. It might allow you to get inside quickly. If all the doors are locked, check for a spare key. The spare key might be given to a friend or family member. If you do not have a spare key, move on to the other tricks to solve the problem.
How to Unlock a Car with Locked Keys in Car?
You can follow any of these approaches to unlock the car with keys inside.
Approach 1: Unlock your Vehicle by Yourself
Use Slim Jim or Other Automotive Tools
If you accidentally find yourself with locked keys in car, use auto accessories like Slim Jim. This thin level can be carefully inserted between an open window and the entrance frame to unlock the front door. But you just need to be patient when using these options.
Use Inflatable Wedge
An inflatable wedge can be an excellent tool if the window is partially opened to unlock your car. This method works as follows:
- Place the inflatable wedge between the door and window frame.
- Inflate the wedge with a small air pump. This will create enough space to insert a tool and unlock the door.
- Once you have enough space, insert a long tool- a Slim Jim or coat hanger and unlock the vehicle.
Use a Bobby Pin
A quicker way to unlock your car if you have locked keys in car is to use a bobby pin. This will work on older cars since they use manual locks. This sounds weird, but done gently, it works for you. Here’s a straightforward way to use a bobby pin.
- Take the bobby pin and bend it a little.
- Insert the pin in the edge of the door between the window and the door frame.
- Gently move the pin around until you catch something inside. This may require some time and patience.
- Gently shake it to open up the door when you catch it.
Using a Modified Wire Coat Hanger
A modified wire coat hanger is also an effective way to unlock the vehicle. This method is especially for older models that use manual locks. Following these steps will make the process easier for you.
- Straighten the hanger using forceps until it’s straight.
- Bent the end into a small hook.
- Slide the hook between the rubber seal around the door and the window.
- Move the hook carefully to catch the locking mechanism.
- Pull gently to unlock the car.
Use String, Shoelaces, or Window Wipers
You can also consider a string, shoelaces, or even a windshield wiper to unlock your car if you have locked keys in car. You should follow these steps while using this method to unlock your car.
String or Shoelaces:
- First, you have to tie a slip knot in the string or shoelace.
- Push the knot through the top of the door, just over the rubber seal.
- From there, loop the knot around the lock button and pull upwards to unlock your door.
Windshield Wiper:
- First remove the wiper blade.
- Bend a metal part.
- Insert it carefully between the door and the window frame
- Attempt to unlock the lock by using a hook and then release it.
Approach 2: Call for Professional Help to Unlock the Car Door with Keys Locked in Car
Call a locksmith or roadside assistance:
If you are locked outside your car, it is generally considered the safest and easiest option to call a locksmith or any roadside assistance service for help. They have the right type of tools to unlock the car without causing any damage to it.
Using Your Auto Insurance for Roadside Assistance:
Do you know many auto insurance policies will cover roadside assistance in situations such as locked keys in car? Well, if it is covered, go ahead and give them a call. They’ll send someone to unlock the doors of your vehicle and some towing companies provide liability if they damage your car during unlocking it.
Approach 3: High-Tech Solutions to Unlock Cars with Keys Locked in Car
Unlocking Your Car with a Mobile Application
So many new cars today come with a mobile app, which can even unlock your vehicle from your smartphone. If you have locked keys in car, a keyless entry system fitted to your vehicle will allow you to open the car doors using an app without taking out any key. Depending on your Android or iPhone, the apps are downloaded from either the Google Play Store or App Store, respectively.
Remote Key Fob Access
If your car has a remote key fob, you can unlock it from a distance. Most of the latest key fobs have the option to unlock the doors by just pressing a button on the fob, even when you are quite a distance from the vehicle. This is useful if you have accidentally locked your keys inside the car. Press the unlock button on the key fob, and your vehicle is unlocked.
Ways to Prevent Getting Locked Out of Car
- Always have a spare set of car keys: Keep a spare key in a safe, accessible location. For example, with a family member, in a lock box, or by yourself.
- Use Key Tracking Devices: Attach a key tracking device to your keychain. It can help you to locate your keys the moment they go missing.
- Invest in a Smart Lock System: You can also use a smart lock system that locks and unlock your car using an app or Bluetooth.
- Install an Alarm System or Keyless Entry: This system will quickly alert you if you’ve left your keys inside the car or if the doors are not closed properly.
- Create a Routine for Checks: Make it a habit to check for your keys before leaving the car. It will help you to prevent locked out of the car with keys inside.
- Check Your Car’s Locking Mechanism: Verify that the locking mechanism functions as expected and does not result in accidental lockouts. Always keep a charged key fob battery for any time it may be needed.
Conclusion:
Getting locked out of your vehicle with locked keys in car is stressful. But it is easy to fix if you know what to do. Remember to stay clear headed and calm. To prevent this problem from happening again, it’s important to keep extra keys available and to ensure that your car’s locking system is working well. It’s always better to seek professional help than to risk it yourself when you are not sure.
FAQs
How can I use my cell phone to unlock my car?
With the car supporting keyless entry, one can easily unlock the vehicle through a mobile app. Download the relevant application from either Google Play or the App Store, connect it to the car, and click unlock in the application.
What to do if keys are locked in the boot(trunk)?
If your car key has been locked in the boot, first check whether any of the doors are unlocked. If not then use a spare key to unlock the car or trunk if you have. Otherwise, call for roadside assistance or a locksmith to help you out. Some vehicles have a manual trunk release inside; check your car’s manual.
Can I call the police to unlock my call with keys inside?
Police officers usually don’t unlock your car with the keys inside, except in situations that involve some kind of emergency. For example, if a child or pet is in the vehicle and is in danger, it might incline the police to act. Otherwise, in other normal situations of lockout, they usually don’t unlock the car.
What if you are locked out with keys inside?
Stay calm and look for doors or other open windows. You could use the spare key and, if present, call a locksmith or roadside assistance. You can also use a coat hanger or an app for keyless entry to unlock a car.
Can I unlock my car with the key fob inside?
If the fob is inside the locked car, use the spare key if you have one. Otherwise, call a locksmith or roadside assistance to unlock the vehicle.
What to do if your car door lock is stuck in the locked position?
If the car is stuck in a locked position, try unlocking it with the key fob or using a manual key. If it doesn’t work, spray a lubricant like WD-40 into the lock and wait a few minutes before trying again. If none of these work, then call a locksmith to safely fix the issue.
Is there an app that unlocks your car?
Yes, there are many apps to unlock the car, some of which are as follows.
- Car Connect – My Car Keys
- KeyConnect Digital Car Key
- Autostart SmartStart
- MoboKey
- Smart Car Key Connected
- CarPlay Connect: Digital Key
- CarPass Wallet
Will a car lock itself if the keys are inside?
In most of the cases, a car does not lock itself. The modern designs of vehicles have safety-related features that will prevent this from happening. However, some car models, older ones, and others automatically lock when the keys are inside the car, and one closes the door.
Keys Locked in Car ? | How to Unlock Car with Keys Inside ?