11 Strategies To Completely Defy Your Lockout Car
How to Prevent a Lockout Car
If you've ever had to be locked out, you know how frustrating it can be. There are many options you can take to prevent this from occurring again in the future.
First, you must always keep a spare key on the go. Also, you should consider investing in roadside assistance services. These services come with many benefits, like a free lockout every year.
1. Call for Help
The car lockout can happen due to a variety of reasons. You may have locked your keys inside the vehicle after closing the door, or you might not be able to access the vehicle if it's been damaged by a collision or burglars. In any event, it's important to stay at peace and contact a professional for help instead of trying to fix the issue yourself.
Keep the contact details of a locksmith or roadside assistance in your wallet or on your phone. Some service providers offer affordable and convenient lockout solutions that are available 24/7. Certain companies have mobile apps that allow you to unlock your vehicle by tapping. These apps are especially helpful for those who are in a hurry and have to close the door, only to realize that your keys are inside.
Over time, dirt and rust can build up in your locks, causing them to become stuck or stop opening. The key fob could also lose its programming, or the car's receiver may malfunction. A professional can get access back to your car using sophisticated tools and techniques.
In the past, police officers could assist you in unlocking your car with tools such as the slim Jim. Most officers will no longer assist you unless the car was abandoned by a pet or a kid. It is advisable to dial a non-urgent number. Additionally, a lot of newer automobiles come with an app which allows you to unlock the vehicle from anywhere. Go to the website of your automaker for a more recent model.
2. Use a Spare Key
Carrying a spare key is one of the easiest and most effective ways to avoid being locked out. This is as simple as keeping it in your pocket, purse or backpack that you carry with you wherever you go. Another option is to purchase an electronic key safe which will keep your keys safe and easily accessible. Just be sure to place it in a location that isn't simple for a car thief to find or access, like the underside of your car.
If you don't have spare keys the best method to avoid being locked out is to make arrangements with someone who does. If you leave your keys in a vehicle belonging to someone close to you, or a family member, they will have the tools necessary to open it up so you can return to the road. This is a great idea for families with young children in the vehicle with you. It's best to be as prepared as you can for unexpected situations.
If you don't have a family member or a friend available, your next move is to call roadside assistance or the automaker's roadside service. These programs typically come with a technician equipped with special wedges and long-reach tools that can open your car's door. It is also an ideal time to review your auto insurance policy, as many insurers offer insurance for lockouts of vehicles.
If you don't have a wedge or a tool, try a more invasive but less destructive method like using a shoelace or a coat hanger made of wire to pick the lock on your door. However it is more risky than other options and isn't easy to accomplish in modern vehicles that have sophisticated locking mechanisms. If you are unable to unlock your vehicle using these methods, it's recommended to seek help from a professional.
3. Use a Wedge or Long-Reach Tool
A wedge or long-reach tool is an important accessory to include in a car lockout kit, which allows you to unlock your vehicle without damaging the door or putting yourself in danger. The tool can be used by putting it in the space between the frame and the window. This allows you to control the inner lock mechanism. Depending on the kind of lock you have in your car, you may be required to move the wedge horizontally or vertically until it connects to the locking mechanism and unlocks the door.
Another great car lockout tool is a coat hanger made of wire that can be cut into different shapes and used to press buttons or lift door handles. This is an excellent option because it is simple inexpensive, cost-effective, and efficient. The only disadvantage to using this method is that it can be difficult to move the metal hook into position in the event that you have to reach behind the door and then stick the bent end of the coat hanger the door.
Another helpful tool for car lockouts is an air wedge which is a plastic or foam device that is inserted between the window and the frame of the door to create a gap which allows you to insert a long-reach tool into it. Air wedges can also be filled slowly, which prevents the creation of excessive pressure or causing damage to the window frame or door. In addition to air wedges, Zip's AW Direct also carries long-reach tools for cars from Steck and Access Tools.
4. Use a Door Stop
You can use a car door stop to cut the gap within your vehicle to allow you to reach the lock button. According to YouTube user assertivecrystalgg45, the key is to slide the door stop between the top part of the window frame and the body of the vehicle without damaging the paint. Once you have created an opening small enough to allow for the door stop, you can then insert a rod made of metal that will push down on the unlock button inside the door. This method is ideal for vehicles equipped with electronic locks. However, it could also be used with regular locks.
A shoelace is a different tool that you can use to unlock your car. Make a knot with a shoelace and tie a slip knot through the middle. You can tighten by pulling both ends. Then, you can thread one end of the shoelace through the frame's corner of the door and move it around the lock. Pull upwards after you've placed the shoelace over the lock button.
This method requires the door be locked, so make sure to check if it's locked prior to trying it. This method may also not work on cars that have an interior hook lock.
If you're still locked out, call roadside assistance. This service is provided by AAA or other memberships. Some automakers offer apps can be downloaded to help you unlock your car when you're locked out. Check with your carmaker to determine if there's an option for your particular model. You can also find recommendations online for a local locksmith. These locksmiths typically offer competitive prices and will assist you in getting back in your car quickly.
5. Use a wire hanger
You can make use of a variety of tools to get back in your vehicle if you're locked out. Utilizing a Slim Jim or modified wire coat hanger could be a simple way to get inside your vehicle without causing damage. You could also try using shoelaces or a credit card to unlock your car door. Whatever method you choose ensure that you remain calm and think clearly to determine the most efficient solution for your particular situation.
To use a hanger, first straighten it as much as you can. Then, insert the end between the car door and window. You may have to move it around a bit to locate the proper spot however once you have found the right spot then, you can hook the end of the hanger around the lock and push up on it. If this doesn't work then try it again or contact roadside assistance.
You can stop future lockouts by carrying a spare key. You can also place an entrance step underneath your door to keep it from the frame of your vehicle. You may want to consider installing an alarm system as well to increase security. Additionally, you should be cautious when locking up and don't forget to check all the doors before driving off. By following these tips you can avoid getting stuck in your car and save yourself many headaches in the future.