What to Do When You Lock Your Keys in the Car

It happens to the best of us—you’re in a rush, distracted, or simply forgetful, and before you know it, you’ve locked your keys in the car. It’s a frustrating and stressful situation, but the key is not to panic. There are several ways to resolve this issue, from DIY methods to professional assistance. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do when you lock your keys in the car.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first thing to do is take a deep breath and assess the situation. Panicking will only make the situation worse, so try to stay calm. Check if any doors are unlocked. It sounds obvious, but sometimes in a rush, we overlook the simplest solutions.

2. Check for Spare Keys

If you’re near your home, workplace, or anywhere you might have a spare key, check for that first. If you have given a spare key to a family member or friend, call them to bring it to you. It’s always a good idea to have a spare key in a safe and accessible place.

3. Use a Phone Unlock App (If Applicable)

Many modern cars come with remote access features that can be controlled through a smartphone app. If your car is equipped with such technology, you might be able to unlock your vehicle using the app. Some popular brands like Tesla, Ford, and GM offer these services, so check if your car’s manufacturer provides a similar feature.

4. Attempt DIY Unlocking Methods

If you don’t have a spare key and no app to unlock the car, you can try some DIY methods, but be careful—these can sometimes cause damage to your vehicle.

Use a Shoelace or String: If your car has a manual lock mechanism with a vertical button, you can try using a shoelace or string with a loop. Insert the string through the top corner of the door, work it down, and try to hook the lock button. Once hooked, pull up to unlock the door.
Use a Coat Hanger or Slim Jim: This method is more complicated and is not recommended unless you have some experience. A straightened coat hanger or a slim jim can be used to manipulate the lock mechanism. Slide the tool between the window and the weather stripping, and try to hook or push the lock mechanism. Be very cautious, as this method can damage the window or the lock.
Use a Wedge and Rod: You can use a wedge (like a doorstop or an inflatable wedge) to create a small gap between the door and the car frame. Then, use a long, thin rod to press the unlock button inside the car. This method can also potentially damage the car’s paint or door seal, so proceed with caution.

5. Call Roadside Assistance

If you’re unable to unlock the car yourself, it’s time to call in the professionals. Many insurance policies include roadside assistance that covers lockouts. If you have this coverage, give them a call. They usually have the tools and expertise to unlock your car without causing damage.

6. Contact a Locksmith

If roadside assistance is not an option, or if you need immediate help, contact a professional locksmith. Automotive locksmiths have specialized tools and skills to unlock cars quickly and safely. While this option might be more expensive, it’s often the safest and fastest way to regain access to your vehicle.

7. Call the Police (As a Last Resort)

If you’re in a potentially dangerous situation, such as being locked out of your car or a car breakdown in a deserted or unsafe area, you might consider calling the police. In some cases, they may be able to assist with unlocking your car. However, this should be a last resort, as police are generally not equipped to handle lockouts unless it’s an emergency.

8. Prevent Future Lockouts

Once you’ve regained access to your car, take steps to prevent future lockouts:

Keep a Spare Key: As mentioned earlier, always have a spare key and keep it in a safe place. Consider giving one to a trusted friend or family member.
Use a Magnetic Key Holder: These holders can be hidden under your car and can store a spare key securely. Just ensure it’s in a spot that won’t fall off or be easily found by others.
Practice Safe Habits: Make it a habit to always have your keys in hand before closing the door. Some people attach their keys to a lanyard or clip them to their belt loop to prevent accidental lockouts.
Invest in Technology: If your car doesn’t have a remote unlock feature, consider upgrading to a smart key system that can prevent lockouts.

When you lock your keys in the car, it is inconvenient and can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can handle the situation smoothly. From DIY methods to professional help, there are multiple ways to get back into your vehicle. Just remember to stay calm, assess your options, and take preventive measures to avoid future lockouts.