We’ve all been there—you’re in a hurry, get out of the car, and suddenly, the door slams shut. Then, it hits you: You’ve locked your keys inside the car. Panic sets in, but don’t worry, because this common mistake can be easily fixed. At Get Drivers Ed, we’re not just focused on teaching you how to drive safely, but also on helping you navigate tricky situations like this one. Whether it’s late at night or in the middle of the day, there are practical steps you can take to resolve the problem quickly and safely.
In this blog, we’ll explore what to do when you find yourself locked out of your car, who to call for help, and what you can do to prevent this situation in the future.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
Is It an Emergency?
The first thing to do when you realize you’ve locked your keys in the car is to stay calm. Assess the situation. Is it simply an inconvenience, or is there something more urgent, such as a child or pet inside the vehicle? If there’s a safety concern, such as a child or pet trapped in the car, you should call 911 immediately. Emergency services can prioritize situations where someone’s safety is at risk and will quickly come to assist.
If it’s just you and the keys locked inside the car, you can breathe easier knowing there are several non-emergency solutions available.
Check for Unlocked Doors or Windows
Before you start making phone calls, check all your car doors and windows. You might be surprised to find that not all of them are locked. Sometimes, even the smallest crack in a window can be enough to wiggle through a tool to unlock the door from the inside.
Consider Your Location
If you’re in a safe, well-lit area like your driveway or a public parking lot, you have a bit more time to explore your options. However, if you’re in an unsafe location or stranded on the side of the road, it’s crucial to resolve the issue quickly. At Get Drivers Ed, we always encourage drivers to prioritize their safety when making decisions on the road.
2. Who to Call for Help?
1. Roadside Assistance Services
One of the quickest and most reliable options for help is to call roadside assistance. Many car insurance companies and automakers offer roadside assistance services as part of their packages, which often include lockout assistance. If you already have a membership with an organization like AAA (American Automobile Association), you can call them for immediate help. Roadside assistance services are equipped to unlock your vehicle without causing damage to your car.
2. Local Locksmiths
If you don’t have roadside assistance or your coverage doesn’t include lockout help, a local locksmith is a great alternative. Locksmiths specialize in unlocking vehicles and can usually arrive quickly. Modern locksmiths are equipped with tools to safely unlock most car models without damaging the locks or windows. However, it’s important to check for a licensed and reputable locksmith to avoid any additional problems. You can use online review platforms to ensure you’re working with someone reliable.
3. Emergency Towing Services
Towing companies often offer lockout services. In some cases, if you don’t have access to roadside assistance or a locksmith, you can call a local towing company. Towing companies are typically available 24/7 and can assist in getting your car unlocked quickly. However, this service might be more expensive than a locksmith or roadside assistance, so be sure to ask about the costs before proceeding.
4. Friends or Family with a Spare Key
Sometimes the simplest solution is the best one. If you have a spare key with a friend or family member nearby, give them a call. While it might take them some time to get to you, it’s often the least expensive and safest option.
At Get Drivers Ed, we recommend keeping a spare key in a safe location, whether at home or with a trusted friend or relative. This way, you always have a backup plan if you accidentally lock yourself out of your car.
3. DIY Methods for Unlocking Your Car
Coat Hanger or Slim Jim Method
For older cars that use manual locks, you may be able to unlock your car using simple tools like a coat hanger or a Slim Jim. If you’re comfortable using these tools, they can be effective. However, this method comes with a big warning—if done incorrectly, you can damage your car’s door, window seals, or locking mechanism. Newer vehicles with electronic locks are not suitable for this method and can be much harder to unlock without professional tools.
Shoelace or String Method
If you’re driving a car with pull-up door locks, another DIY option is to use a shoelace or long string. Tie a slipknot in the middle of the string and carefully work it into the car through a cracked window or door frame. If you can loop the knot around the lock and pull it up, you’ll be able to unlock the door. Again, this method only works for certain types of older locks.
Avoid Breaking Windows
Though it might seem tempting, breaking a window should be a last resort. The cost of replacing a window far exceeds the cost of calling a professional locksmith or using roadside assistance. Not to mention, shattered glass can pose serious safety risks.
4. How to Prevent Locking Your Keys in the Car Again
Use Keyless Entry or Smart Keys
Modern vehicles often come equipped with keyless entry systems that allow you to lock and unlock your car with a fob. Some cars won’t allow you to lock the doors if the key fob is inside, reducing the chances of getting locked out. If you’re in the market for a new car, consider one with smart features that can prevent this problem from happening again.
Hide a Spare Key in a Magnetic Box
Another common solution is to keep a spare key in a magnetic box hidden somewhere on the outside of your car. You can place the box in a discreet spot, like underneath the chassis or near the bumper, ensuring you always have a way to access your vehicle if you’re locked out.
Key Finder Devices
For those prone to misplacing their keys, a key finder device can be a lifesaver. These small gadgets attach to your keyring and connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth. If you can’t find your keys, you can use your phone to track their location or make them emit a noise.
At Get Drivers Ed, we believe that planning ahead can save you time and stress. Taking these preventive steps can help you avoid getting locked out in the future.
Conclusion: Don’t Panic, Help is Available
Locking your keys in the car is an unfortunate but common mistake that many drivers experience. The good news is that there are plenty of options to resolve the situation quickly and safely. Whether you call roadside assistance, a locksmith, or rely on a spare key, help is just a phone call away.
At Get Drivers Ed, we not only prepare drivers to navigate the roads confidently but also help them handle the unexpected situations that can arise, such as locking your keys in the car. Learning practical tips like this can help you become a more prepared and resourceful driver.
Need more driving tips or want to take your driving knowledge to the next level? Check out our online driver education courses at Get Drivers Ed and become the best driver you can be. Safe driving starts with being informed!
