A Guide To Unlock Your Car In 2023
Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces
Many cars are now equipped with enhanced security features. Older models still often have post locks which can be opened using simple techniques.
Certain car manufacturers also offer mobile apps that allow you to unlock your vehicle. Check with your car manufacturer to see if they offer this option available to you.
1. Shoelaces
Shoelaces might not seem like the best tool to use when you're locked out of your vehicle, but they can actually be quite helpful if you know how to use them. For those who have vehicles that have a locking tab mechanism that can be moved vertically up and down, usually near the window, there's an easy trick you can employ to unlock your car with only a pair of shoelaces.
First, remove the shoelaces from a pair of shoes you're not wearing then tie a slip knot in the middle of the two shoelaces. Bring both ends together to form a loop about 3/4 of the length of the shoelaces. Then, slide the knot into the crack that exists between the car's frame and the door. Then, move the shoelace so that it connects to the lock mechanism. This may require a amount of trial and error, but when the shoelace has been secured, simply pull up on both ends to open your vehicle.
When using this method, the most important thing to bear in mind is to not scratch or cause damage to your vehicle. If you are able to successfully employ this method to unlock your car, it can save you the expense of an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service and get you back on track in less than a minute.
This method is a great alternative to more abrasive methods such as using a hanger, which can scratch your vehicle. However, it does not always work, especially on more advanced models. If the locking mechanism of your vehicle doesn't respond to this method using a long rod of wood or a screwdriver might be required to break the lock open.
2. Coat Hanger
Being locked out of your car is among the most frustrating events that can happen in our modern world. Many people may have witnessed their uncle or father use coat hangers to open the door of their car when they were children, but this method can be a little risky and might not work on all vehicles. Using a hanger to open your car can damage the door's frame, and is prohibited in certain states.
A simple wire coat hanger can be used to unlock a car by slipping it in the space between your door and frame. The coat hanger is inserted into the gap between the frame and the door. Bend it into a small V shape to ensure that it is secure against the lock. Then, pull up on the hanger until you can release the pin or bar that controls the door lock. You may need to move the hook back and forth a few times before you find something that can move the lock, but it should not take much effort to raise the bar.
If you're not able to get the hook of the coat hanger to let go of the control arm, you can try putting it in between the window and stripping. The hook end of the hanger may be needed to locate the area. Once you have found it move it around until you can hear the door open. This technique isn't without risk, but it can also be a great way to gain entry into your vehicle without having to seek professional assistance or a key. If this doesn't work, you can call an emergency roadside service or locksmith to seek assistance.
3. Wooden Wedge
A slip of the fingers or a little bit of negligence can result in you losing your keys in a hurry. If you don't have the means to contact AAA roadside assistance or locksmith services, you'll require something quick to unlock your vehicle.
You can use anything that can open up the gap between your frame and door. For instance you could use a screwdriver or a tennis-ball, or a coat hanger. You may need to spray air into the gap to get it wide enough for your tool to pass through and reach the lock. Be cautious not to damage your car.
Many people turn to pliers or other tools whenever they lock their keys inside their vehicles however, it's better to use tools that won't scratch or scratch your aluminum trim or paint. Inflatable wedges work well for this purpose and can be found in various sizes that fit into most doors.
A long length of plastic folded in half, similar to bags for grocery shopping is a second option. Then, slide the strip through the pried open door and, when it gets to the lock, wrap it around the lock knob and pull it upwards. This method can be messy, but it's much quicker than using a screwdriver, or a coathanger.
If you're a recent car owner, it's likely that the lock mechanism doesn't have a traditional handle on the exterior of the car it's situated at the top of the window near the weather stripping. To unlock a car using this type of lock, you'll need to bend the end of an old wire hanger into a hook, then move it into the space between the window and the door (or the weather stripping) until you reach the lever or lock switch.
4. Air Wedge
Repo and locksmith professionals utilize air wedges like this one from HPC to create more space around the window frame of the car to allow them to enter tools with ease. They are also an excellent way to avoid damaging the vehicle when gaining entry without a key.
The air pump wedge operates by sliding between the door and the weather stripping of the door into a position where proper pressure is applied. A hand pump manual is then used to fill a bag that separates the door of the vehicle from its window, creating an opening large enough to fit an unlocking tool for cars. This makes it possible to unlock a vehicle door without keys by breaking the lock mechanism manually.
A good air wedge will include a stiffener that prevents it from collapsing when pumped up, and an escape valve to stop over-inflation. It will also come with a tough vinyl bag that is non-marring and built to last several times. The wedges are best utilized with a long-reach vehicle unlocking tool for doors or a picker that can be inserted into the wedge.
It's important to know that a person shouldn't attempt this method of opening the door of their car. This could cause damage to the vehicle which could require costly repairs at a body shop. This is not a safe method to open your car if you've locked your keys in.
It is suggested that people who are stranded in their car call a professional roadside assistance service for help. These services will typically send a trained, experienced technician equipped with the appropriate tools to open a car door without damaging the vehicle. They can also assist with towing, battery replacement and other issues.
5. Rod
A rod is a piece of metal, typically tapered or cylindrical, which is used to support another. In the car, it could be used to create a gap through which you can access your keys and unlock the door. This technique can be difficult to use however it's worth a shot. If you're lucky, it'll work.
If you don't feel comfortable opening your car yourself you can get someone to do it. You can also hire locksmith. You can find one close to you by looking on the internet or calling. You can also sign up for an AAA membership that includes roadside assistance. This service will send someone to your location quickly, and you can have them unlock your car without any hassles.
Many newer cars have security features that stop people from entering them without a key. Older models are more difficult to get into. To unlock these vehicles, you need to use a coat hanger or rod. To do get my keys out of my car , separate the coat hanger from its hook and bend the straight side into a hook. To create a gap, slide the hook behind the weather strip into the slit in the door. Inject the rod, and then move it until you can depress the door-lock switch or slide it.
Certain automakers have smartphones with apps that can help you unlock your car when you are locked out. For instance, BMW and Hyundai offer a lockout app that allows you to unlock your car using the smartphone's screen. Other automakers, like General Motors, have an OnStar program that can aid you unlock your car if it's locked out. You'll need an iPhone 11 or newer or Apple Watch Series 5 with the most recent version of watchOS and be in Bluetooth range.