Locking your keys inside your car is a frustrating experience that many drivers have encountered at some point. Whether you’ve absentmindedly closed the door while the keys were still inside, or you’ve accidentally locked them in the trunk, this situation can leave you stranded and unsure of what to do next. While the temptation might be to try to resolve the issue on your own, attempting to unlock the car yourself can lead to more problems, including damage to the vehicle’s locks or security system.
In this article, we’ll discuss the steps you should take if you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of locking your keys inside your car, as well as why it's crucial to call a skilled auto locksmith to handle the problem.
Common Situations When Keys Are Locked Inside a Car
There are various scenarios in which a key might be locked inside a car. The most common include:
Locking the Key in the Cabin: This often happens when you leave the car running or simply get out of the vehicle and accidentally press the lock button on the key fob, causing the doors to lock automatically.
Locking the Key in the Trunk: This situation can occur when you place your keys in the trunk and then close it without realising they are still inside.
Spare Key Left Inside: If you've borrowed a spare key from a friend or family member and forgotten to take it out, this can lead to the unfortunate situation of being locked out.
Child or Pet Lock-In: In some cases, children or pets may lock the doors from the inside, inadvertently leaving the key behind.
No matter the situation, the key takeaway is that getting locked out of your car is stressful. However, it’s essential to approach the situation calmly and take the proper steps to regain access to your vehicle.
What Not to Do When Locked Out of Your Car
While it might be tempting to try to solve the problem yourself, attempting DIY methods to unlock your car can be risky and counterproductive. Here are some things you should avoid:
Using a Coat Hanger or Other Makeshift Tools: Some people try to unlock their car using objects like coat hangers, which can damage the vehicle’s door or window seals. In some cases, this can even cause permanent damage to the locking mechanism.
Breaking the Window: While this might seem like a quick solution, breaking a window is expensive, dangerous, and unnecessary. It can also expose your car to theft, as broken windows provide easy access to your vehicle’s interior.
Attempting to Pick the Lock: Modern cars are equipped with complex locking mechanisms, and trying to pick the lock without the proper training can lead to significant damage to the lock and the surrounding components.
The Proper Steps to Take When Locked Out of Your Car
If you’ve locked your keys inside your vehicle, here are the steps you should follow to regain access safely:
Stay Calm: It’s important not to panic. Take a few deep breaths and assess the situation. Remember, help is available, and it’s better to approach the problem methodically rather than rushing into potentially damaging solutions.
Check for Open Windows or Doors: Before calling for assistance, check if any windows or doors were left slightly ajar. Some cars allow you to unlock a door using a spare key or a remote if the windows are open enough.
Call a Professional Auto Locksmith: If you can’t find an alternative way to enter the car, your next step should be to contact a qualified auto locksmith. These professionals have the tools and expertise necessary to safely unlock your car without causing damage.
Provide Necessary Information: When contacting the locksmith, make sure to provide the vehicle’s make, model, and year. This helps them determine the most effective and safe method of unlocking your car. They may also ask for proof of ownership to ensure the security of the vehicle.
Wait for the Locksmith to Arrive: While waiting for the locksmith, avoid trying any DIY methods. Professional locksmiths are trained to unlock all types of cars, including those with modern security systems. Allow them to handle the situation.
Why You Should Rely on a Skilled Auto Locksmith
When locked out of your car, it’s crucial to call a professional locksmith instead of trying to fix the problem on your own. Here’s why:
Expert Knowledge and Tools: Auto locksmiths are specially trained in dealing with various car locks, including those in modern vehicles that incorporate advanced security systems. They have the tools and knowledge to open your car quickly and safely, without causing any damage.
Avoiding Damage to Your Vehicle: DIY methods such as using a coat hanger or breaking a window can cause significant damage to your car, leading to costly repairs. An auto locksmith knows how to handle your vehicle with care, preserving its integrity.
Quick and Efficient Service: A professional locksmith can often arrive at your location within minutes and quickly unlock your car, allowing you to get back on the road without unnecessary delays.
Expertise with Modern Car Security: Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced locking systems, including transponder keys, keyless entry systems, and electronic locks. These systems are more difficult to manipulate and require a skilled locksmith with the right equipment to unlock them.
Security Considerations: Locksmiths are trained to follow strict security protocols to ensure that your vehicle remains safe throughout the unlocking process. This includes verifying your identity and ownership of the vehicle to prevent any security breaches.
Mobile Service: Many auto locksmiths offer mobile services, meaning they can come directly to your location, whether you're at home, at work, or on the side of the road. This convenience makes it easier to resolve the issue without needing to tow your vehicle to a garage or dealership.
How a Professional Auto Locksmith Unlocks Your Car
Here’s a general outline of how an auto locksmith would handle the situation when you’ve locked your keys inside your vehicle:
Identification: Upon arrival, the locksmith will typically ask for proof of ownership and vehicle details (make, model, year) to ensure they are working on the correct car.
Choosing the Right Tool: Based on the vehicle’s locking system, the locksmith will select the appropriate tool to unlock the car. For example, they may use a long, thin tool called a "slim jim" to unlock a door or an inflatable wedge to carefully separate the door from the frame.
Unlocking the Vehicle: Using precision tools, the locksmith will unlock the car’s door or trunk without causing any damage to the lock or the door frame. The process may vary depending on the type of lock and security system the vehicle uses.
Testing: Once the vehicle is unlocked, the locksmith will test the doors to ensure they open and close correctly, and confirm that the keys are accessible.
Alternative Solutions: In some cases, the locksmith may also offer key replacement services if the keys are lost or broken in the process. If the lock system has been damaged, they will suggest repairs to prevent future issues.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Locking Your Keys in the Car
While it's important to know what to do if you lock your keys inside your car, it's also helpful to take steps to avoid this situation in the first place:
Spare Key: Keep a spare key with a trusted friend, family member, or in a secure location, so you can quickly access it if needed.
Keyless Entry System: Many modern cars come with keyless entry systems that allow you to unlock your car remotely. If you tend to lock your keys inside, upgrading to a keyless entry system could help you avoid the issue.
Routine Checks: Make a habit of checking your car before locking it to ensure the keys aren’t inside.
Locking your keys inside your car is a frustrating and inconvenient experience, but it’s important to approach the situation calmly and avoid trying to fix the problem on your own. Professional auto locksmiths are the best solution for safely and efficiently unlocking your car without causing any damage. They have the knowledge, tools, and expertise to handle all types of vehicles, including modern cars with complex locking systems.
By relying on a skilled car locksmith Manchester, you can ensure that your vehicle is unlocked quickly and securely, allowing you to get back on the road without unnecessary delays. In the future, taking a few preventative steps, such as keeping a spare key or upgrading to a keyless entry system, can help you avoid the frustration of being locked out of your car.
