How to Get Locked Out of My Car

You may be locked out of your vehicle for a variety reasons. From simple obliviousness to malfunctioning locks. Keep a spare key in the hands of someone in the family and having an emergency roadside assistance plan, and using smartphone capabilities in your newer vehicle are all ways to minimize the chance of this happening.

Check the door locks

It can be a hassle to be locked out of your car. It can ruin your entire day or put you at risk, if it occurs in an unsafe location. There are a variety of ways you can avoid this scenario by being proactive. This includes having a spare key, keeping track of your keys at any moment, and setting up an alarm.

The inspection of your door locks is among the first things you must do. The most efficient method to do this is to use a tool such as a Slim Jim, which can be bought at many hardware stores. Be careful not to harm your car using this tool, and make sure you know how to open car door without key - recommended - to use it properly.

A wire coat hanger is another option. Untwist and form the hanger into hooks and then wrap it around the automotive lock and pull upwards to check if it unlocks your vehicle. This method is best suited for post locks and if you own one, give it a try.

If none of these strategies is working, you may require an emergency locksmith or towing service. They will be able to assist you gain entry into your car without damaging it. They will also have the tools needed to unlock your car So, make sure you have their number on hand.

Some automakers like GM provide services like OnStar which can help you in a lockout scenario. Hurst Towing is another option. They have experts who are trained to handle lockout situations.

Another aspect to be aware of is that locks that are always sticking or difficult to open, it could be a sign of poor quality hardware. To ensure that your hardware will last it is important to select hardware that has been rated by BHMA. Making the investment in better quality hardware will prevent you from being locked out of your vehicle in the future. You can also try lubricating the locks to see if this can help.

Need Help?

Many people are caught in an emergency situation when they realize that they've locked their keys in their car. There are many ways to escape this type of situation with the least amount of hassle and expense. First and foremost, try to stay calm; a panicked response will only cause the situation to get worse.

The quickest alternative is to call local towing services. They usually specialize in roadside assistance, and have a representative nearby who can assist you. They also can provide you with a tow truck when needed.

If you do not have a towing company nearby you can call your local police. In the past, police officers were in a position to unlock vehicles using a slim jim, however, these days they're not likely to have the equipment to do so.

A family member or friend living in the vicinity is a great idea. They may be able come and open your vehicle without causing damage or incurring any additional expenses. This is a good time to remind yourself that having spare keys in your car is the best method to avoid accidental lockouts.

It's a good idea keep spare keys in a safe location and then leave them with someone you trust who will quickly find them in the event you lose your car keys. Newer vehicles may have safety features which allow you to remotely open your vehicle with the touchscreen or mobile app. You should look over the inventory available at Longo Toyota to see if the vehicle you are looking for has these features.

If you have an auto warranty or roadside assistance plan, you can also try calling the dealership to request that they unlock your vehicle lock out. Depending on the warranty or coverage, they may be able to unlock your car for no cost. If they cannot offer assistance, they can recommend someone who can. It's also worth looking into non-profit organizations and community support services, because they can provide assistance in these types of circumstances at a minimal cost or even for free.

Check the Sunroof

The sunroof's drain tubes that channel condensation or water away from the cabin and toward the ground outside of the vehicle. If the drain tubes become blocked the sunroof could be filled with water. It will then spill over into the vehicle's cabin and stain the headliner. This is why it's crucial to check the sunroof drain regularly.

It is easiest to pour a small amount of water into each drain hole that can be seen through the trough that surrounds the opening. Then, carefully thread a wire or similar tool through each of the tubes to remove any debris. You can also utilize the blower to get rid of any snagged condensation or water.

It's recommended to clean the sunroof tracks and slides frequently. Use a gentle, soft detergent to remove any dirt, dust or other residue. It's a good idea also to lubricate tracks and slides using a silicon-based grease. This will allow them to move more fluidly.

Regularly inspect the seal on your sunroof as it is susceptible to deterioration over time. If the seal is cracked or damaged, it could let water and debris be able to get into the sunroof. This could cause other issues.

If you hear any noises of popping or scraping coming from the sunroof on your vehicle, it is a sign that a problem exists with the motor. This needs attention from a professional.

Charles from HomeTown Auto Repair & Tire recently came across a 2012 Toyota RAV4 with a sunroof that was not working correctly. He noticed that the sunroof had a leak and was leaking into the passenger compartment. The cause was a clogged sunroof drain tube, which was disengaged from the track channel. If your sunroof doesn't work properly Try cleaning and lubricating its tracks as well as slides. If this doesn't resolve the issue, seek out a professional technician for more in-depth diagnosis and repair.

Check the Windows

There are a lot of things you can do to avoid locking your keys in your car. One of the best options is to keep an extra key somewhere that you or someone who knows where you are can easily access. A lot of newer cars come with safety features like keyless entry or automatic locks. Also, make sure that you have your cell phone to call for assistance if you lock the keys to your car.

Another option is to locate an acquaintance or family member who has the tools you require to get back into your car. This could include a slim jim or another tool like inflatable wedges, bobby pins or even your own shoelace or doorstop. Using these supplies can open the door in just a few seconds, which will spare you from having to wait for the fire department or police.

If your windows aren't operating correctly, it could be an indicator that the door lock switch has been programmed or is malfunctioning. If the window isn't rolling down or up when you push the switch, this is usually due to an absence of lubrication, and can easily be fixed.

To test whether the switch is operating press the button while slamming the door a few times to see if it starts to work. If not, try using your fist to slam the window or door frame, but be sure that you don't damage your vehicle.

If none of these strategies are working, you can call for assistance from a roadside service to assist you in getting into your car opener service. Most roadside services provide the opportunity to lock out your vehicle for free per year and can give you advice on how to get your keys out of a locked car to avoid getting locked out of your car in the future. You can also call an emergency locksmith or towing service. These professionals have the knowledge and expertise to gain entry into your vehicle, however they typically charge an amount for their services.