Locking your keys inside the car is a common issue that can happen to anyone. It is a frustrating and inconveniencing experience that can disrupt your schedule and lead to damages. Knowing how to get your keys from a locked car is required, as it can save you time and money. Here are tips you can apply to get your keys out of a locked car.
How to Unlock a Car Without Keys
What to do if you lock your keys in your car? Panic? No. When you find yourself locked out of your car, don't fret. Unlocking a car without keys requires preparation, knowledge of your car’s lock mechanism, appropriate tools, and patience. Some methods of unlocking a vehicle without keys are quick and easy, while others may require professional assistance to avoid damage. Here are a few methods to retrieve keys locked in cars.
Using a Slim Jim
A Slim Jim is a thin metal strip with a notch designed to slide between the window and the weather stripping of the car door. To unlock the car door, insert the Slim Jim slowly and carefully through the rubber seal between the window and door to access the door locking mechanism. Find the linkage rod by slowly lowering the Slim Jim inside the door. Once the Slim Jim touches the linkage rod, rotate it, hooking the Slim Jim’s notch to the rod. With the notch engaged, slowly and steadily lift the Slim Jim upwards. This action should move the linkage rod and unlock the door.
Using a Coat Hanger
A coat hanger can be fashioned into a makeshift tool to unlock cars and retrieve locked keys in cars. To start, straighten out the hanger by unwinding and stretching out the wire. Create a hook using your hands or pliers, bending one end of the hanger into a small “V” shaped hook. Access the lock by creating a gap between the car door and the frame. You will need a piece of cloth as a wedge for the gap. Now insert the makeshift hook into the gap, sliding it near the lock button where the lock mechanism is located. Locate the lock using the hanger by feeling around to find the linkage rod. Hook the hanger and pull slowly to lift the lock button.
Using a Wedge And Rod
A wedge and a rod come in handy when your key is locked in the car, and you want to retrieve it without breaking the bank or a sweat. To begin, you’ll need to create a gap. Slide a wedge into the top corner of the car door, near the handle side. Do this gently. Create a gap just enough to slide in your rod. Shape the rod to ensure it can reach and manipulate the door’s handle. Once the gap is created, slip in the rod. The goal is to reach the unlock button or the car door handle. Here comes the trickiest part. Use the rod to push the unlock button or pull the door handle. This could be pressing the unlock button, pulling the door handle from inside, or pulling on the lock pin. With a little luck and finesse, the door should pop open.
How to Get Keys Out of Locked Car Without Tools
So you left your keys in the car, it's okay, you are not alone. However, what do you do if you lock your keys in your car, and you are tool-less? Don’t sweat it, here’s a thorough guide to getting back into your car without a single tool.
Using a String or Shoelace
Toolless with keys locked in the car? It's time to get creative with your shoelace or string. Here’s how. Tie a slip knot or a small secure loop in the middle of the string or shoelace. The loop should be just enough to fit around the car’s door lock pin. Be sure the string or shoelace is sturdy enough to maneuver inside the vehicle. Insert the string into the car, wriggling it back and forth until the loop is inside. You might need to gently pull the door frame to create space. Lower the string onto the door lock pin. Once the loop is around the lock, pull both ends of the string to tighten the loop, then pull up gently. If all goes well, the lock should pop up, unlocking the door.
Using the Car’s Unlock Button
Using the car's unlock button is a practical method if you can reach it. You will need something long enough to reach the unlock button. Wedging the door to create a gap, slide in your tool, aiming for the unlock button until you can press the unlock button. When using this method, do not use excessive force, which could damage the lock mechanisms or window.
How to Unlock Automatic Car Door Without a Key
Unlocking an automatic car door without a key can be challenging. There are several methods to unlock your car door without needing the key. This guide explores various techniques to assist you in successfully unlocking your automatic car door without a key.
Using a Smartphone App
Most modern vehicles come equipped with features that allow you to unlock your car using a smartphone app. Check the car’s manual or manufacturer's website to see if your vehicle supports remote unlocking via an app. Download the app and set up your account with your car’s details. Pair your smartphone with your car, navigate to the “Remote Services” section, look for the unlock button, and tap it. The app sends a signal to your car and unlocks the doors.
Calling Roadside Assistance
When all else fails, it's time to call in the professionals to save the day. Roadside assistance is a service provided by organizations, such as AAA, to help with common car problems, including locked keys in cars. Roadside assistance offers the safest and most reliable means of unlocking your car with minimal damage. They use specialized tools to manipulate the locking mechanism or reach the unlock button inside the car.
Unlocking your car door without the keys can be a stressful situation, but knowing the various methods can help you regain access to your car. With or without tools, you can access keys left in the car by following the guide. In addition, technology and professional assistance have simplified a rather tedious task ensuring minimal damage to your car.
It is essential to store the spare keys in a safe and accessible location, as they are a lifesaver when you find yourself in a situation where you have locked keys in a car to deal with. Keeping spare keys ensures you are prepared for unexpected lockouts while offering a quick, convenient, and cost-effective solution.
