How to Deal With Locked Keys in Your Vehicle Locking keys in your car is a common occurrence, and it can cause anxiety. This is a situation you can handle. There are ways to prevent getting locked out in the future, which includes storing spare keys somewhere safe and secure. You can also include a roadside service to your vehicle. This helps with breakdowns and assists you in getting back on the road. Locking the Doors It's a humiliating moment when you lock your keys inside your car. In the best-case scenario, you have an acquaintance or family member nearby who can come unlock the door for you, without causing damage to your vehicle. If not, it can still be relatively simple to gain access back to your vehicle using the appropriate tools. The type of vehicle you drive and the locks that are installed inside will determine how easy it is to get back inside. For instance, if your car has manual locks instead of sensor-operated locks, you can make use of a rod or wire to unlock the doors. This might be a wire coat hanger that can be bent into the shape of a lasso, or, on newer vehicles the rod of a metal is integrated into the key fob. Many hardware stores offer "lock picking" sets that include a metal rod and instructions to unlock your car's doors. You must first identify the position of the "unlock" button. It may be near the key fob, or it may be on a wall in the front of the vehicle that is visible from the windshield. Once you've figured out this information, you can use a coat hanger or rod in order to create a gap between the door of the car and the frame or window. You can then reach inside and press the button. The other thing to check is whether your door locks come with an opening switch that you can push to open them. Some of the more recent automobiles have these switches in the trunk, typically on the side closest to the seats. You can also utilize the emergency release button to fold down the seat and crawl into the trunk. If none of these methods work, it's time to seek help. You may want to seek the assistance of a friend who has the same make and model as your car or ask your car dealer to make you a new key. They are able to do this for less than you'll pay a locksmith. Locking the Trunk It is not a good idea to secure the trunk of your car unless you intend to hide valuables. It is ideal to keep thieves away from your stuff, it also hinders opening the trunk without your key fob. You can solve this problem by hiding a spare car key under the rear bumper well or inside the trunk. This isn't foolproof and is easily discovered by thieves, but it can help to stop thieves from opening your trunk. Modern cars have gone to extreme lengths to ensure that their trunks are only able to be opened by those with the key fob. Many manufacturers have placed the trunk release lever in the cabin or on the back seat to safeguard your valuables. The good news is that you can still save money by using the Slim Jim or calling roadside assistance instead of hiring locksmith. You can make use of a wire hanger to try to open the trunk of your vehicle. You must be careful to not damage the paintwork. You'll also have to bend the hanger at one end so that it has an elongated hook. Then, place the hook between the trunk and the back of the seat. If you are able to feel resistance, you have located the lever or button that opens the trunk. You can also open the trunk if have access to the front cabin. This is done by pressing a button located inside the cabin. This method isn't foolproof because a burglar can see the button and see that your valuables are in the trunk. Another method is to open the trunk with the latch mechanism. This is a simple way to do it, but it only works when your car isn't fully charged and you can hear the door locks click when you press them. The engine might also have to be running to activate the latch. Checking the Battery If you're unable to open the doors using any of the methods described above, it is possible that you have a dead battery inside your key fob. The majority of car fobs have an emergency key that can be used to unlock the driver's door if locked. This is usually an additional key that was included with the vehicle or can be found in the glove box or center console. Most often, a blockage in the lock's cylinder can be the reason why a key won't work in the ignition. This could be due to dirt, grime or other debris that gets inside the lock and prevents the pins from dropping properly when you insert the key. A flashlight and compressed air are both great tools to help you find any obstructions in the lock cylinder. If you're careful you can get rid of the obstructions and ensure your key works in the ignition when needed. Damage to the cylinder could also cause a car to not turn on. In this instance, the lock cylinder is most likely damaged and requires to be replaced. This could be a costly repair, but fortunately there are solutions to temporarily fix this problem. For instance, you can make use of a wire hanger to remove a small piece of trim from the door handle or on the panel on which the key cylinder can be located. This is not a good idea for those who are brand new to DIY projects. It can be difficult and may cause damage to your vehicle. Also, make sure that you shut off the vehicle completely before beginning any work. Accidentally locking your keys in your vehicle is an unpleasant situation to find yourself in. It's important to remain calm and follow the suggestions above to get them back them safely without causing any additional damage to your vehicle. If you're able to then, you should inquire with your insurance provider to determine if a key replacement is covered under your policy. Help is needed. There are a few things you need to do before calling for help when you have locked your keys in your car. If you have a spare car key home You can ask someone to bring it to unlock your vehicle. You don't need to pay for an emergency locksmith service. You can also contact your family member or a friend to find out if he or she has the key. Many people keep spare keys to their cars at work or at home, so they can assist you in case you've locked yourself out. Thirdly, call roadside assistance companies such as AAA. They have special kits to unlock vehicles and will be able to open yours for a fraction of the cost a locksmith would cost. However, they'll require your VIN number (visible on the front windshield wiper) and proof of ownership in order to do this. If the situation is urgent and have a small child or pet inside your vehicle, call 911 immediately. Police will be dispatched to your location and use specific tools or methods to remove the animal or child out of the vehicle. This could involve using the slim-jim to break a window or open the door to the car. It's not enjoyable to lock your keys inside your car, but in most instances, it's only an inconvenience that isn't too significant. If you follow these guidelines you can avoid being stranded in the vehicle and plan a course of steps to take the next time it occurs to you. Drivers should also take steps to avoid being stuck in their vehicles in the future, for instance, downloading the app of their car manufacturer or keeping keys in a secure location outside the vehicle, such as a magnetic safe beneath the vehicle or on the driver's side of the trunk. Moody also suggests that motorists purchase a roadside service plan that includes assistance with locking out, and then contact their car manufacturer to get a replacement key. This can save money over time, since most roadside assistance plans cover lockout assistance.