Contents hideLocked keys in Car? Here’s What to Do
Getting your keys stuck inside a locked vehicle is a real bummer that can happen to anyone. Whether you’re running errands or stuck in a strange place, knowing how to handle this situation can save you time and stress.
This guide will help you through an emergency situation where you have keys locked inside a locked car, with practical solutions to get you back on the road.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First, stay calm. Panicking won’t help and a clear head is key to problem solving. Check the car door, windows and door handle to see if any are open. For newer cars, check the unlock button or use your phone if your car has keyless entry.
If the situation is dangerous, such as being on a busy road or in a strange place, move to a safe location and consider calling for professional help or emergency services.
2. Quick DIY Methods for Older Cars
If you have basic tools, you might be able to try some DIY methods to get in. These work best on older cars with simpler locking mechanisms:
- Wire Coat Hanger or Fishing Line: A oldie but a goodie, these can manipulate the door lock or unlock button.
- Blood Pressure Cuff or Slip Knot: These can create a gap in the door frame to get to the lock.
- Slim Jim Tool: Insert into the top corner of the door and a slim jim can operate the lock.
Be careful—these methods can damage the locking mechanism, door frame or weather stripping especially on newer cars with advanced security systems.
3. Call a Professional Car Locksmith
For a quick and hassle free solution, calling a professional locksmith is often the best option. A car locksmith, like The Locksmith Cardiff, can get into your car quickly and without damage. With the right tools and expertise they can handle everything from basic car locks to advanced security systems.
4. Roadside Assistance
If you have car insurance or breakdown cover, roadside assistance is another option. Many plans cover keys locked in car. Contact your provider to send someone to unlock your car.
5. Prevent Future Lockouts
Preventing future locked keys in car situations is easy by following these simple steps:
- Keep a Spare Key: Store a spare key in a magnetic box under your car or with a family member.
- Get Keyless Entry: Many newer cars have keyless entry so you can’t lock your keys in.
- Use a Key Tracker: Devices like Tile or AirTag can help you find your car keys.
- Good Habits: Always check for your keys before you close the car door.
6. Know When to Call
If DIY doesn’t work or your car has advanced security features, don’t hesitate to call for help. A local locksmith like The Locksmith Cardiff can help you out, whether it’s unlocking your car or making a new key.
How Your Car Locks Work
Every car’s locking mechanism is different and understanding how yours works can help you avoid common problems. Some cars have manual locks, others keyless entry and some electronic keypads. Older cars can be accessed with basic tools but newer cars with anti-theft systems require more advanced solutions.
By knowing your car’s features such as the auto-lock timer or override settings you can reduce the chances of locking your keys in. Many manufacturers provide user manuals with tips on how to get back in when you’re locked out which can be useful when you’re in a sticky situation.
Is Your Car Insurance Lockout Cover?
Many drivers don’t realise their car insurance policy covers vehicle lockouts. This can save you from the surprise costs of calling a locksmith or roadside assistance. Check your policy for details on emergency lockout services or key replacement.
If your policy doesn’t cover lockouts, consider adding this to your policy for peace of mind. Insurance plans that cover roadside assistance often have options for unlocking your car or replacing lost keys so they’re a great resource in an emergency.
Other Tools to Unlock Your Car
If you can’t get professional help, there are some alternative tools that might work in a lockout situation. For example, using weather stripping to create a gap in the door frame can give you enough room to insert a blood pressure cuff or even a piece of plastic. A slip knot can also be used to hook the door lock mechanism.
But these are last resort and should be used with caution. Improper use can damage the locking mechanism or the inside of your car. A professional locksmith is still your best bet for a safe and damage free solution.
Lockouts in Rural Areas
Getting locked out of your car in a rural area can be even more stressful. In this situation your top priority is safety. Use your phone to call for help and notify a family member or friend of your location. If you have a breakdown provider they can send someone to unlock your car or tow it to a safer location.
Having a spare key in a magnetic box or a reliable local locksmith’s number in your phone can make all the difference in getting you back on the road quickly.
Lock Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your vehicle locks can help prevent lockouts. Dust, debris and wear and tear can cause door locks to malfunction over time. Cleaning your locks and lubricating the mechanisms can keep them working smoothly.
For newer cars check the battery life of your key fob and replace it regularly. If the locking mechanism fails due to a dead battery or wear and tear, having a trusted car locksmith check your system can prevent future lockouts.
Winter Lockouts
Lockouts in winter can be even more difficult. In cold temperatures door handles and locks can freeze and become stuck making it even harder to get back in. To prevent this keep a de-icer spray in your bag or at home. Also apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the lock to prevent it from freezing.
If you find yourself locked out in the cold seek shelter while waiting for help. Don’t use force on frozen locks as this can damage the locking mechanism or break the key replacement parts.
Conclusion
Locking your keys in your car is a pain but it’s a solvable problem. Whether you try DIY, call roadside assistance or a professional locksmith there’s always a solution. Take precautions to prevent future lockouts and always put safety first.
If you’re in Cardiff and need help now, call The Locksmith Cardiff for fast and reliable service. Don’t let a lockout ruin your day – get back on the road quickly.
