Locked Keys in Car? Here's How to Open Your Car Without Damage
If you've locked your keys in your vehicle, don't worry. There are a variety of tricks you can try before calling a locksmith, or a roadside assistance service.
You could, for instance make use of a shoelace with an elastic slip knot to raise a post lock. Or you can untwist a coathanger wire and shape it into hook. You can also make use of an inflatable wedge or a door wedge.
Pump Wedge
If you've found yourself in a locked car and no DIY solutions like wire hangers, shoestrings or wedges work, it's time to contact an expert. A locksmith or repo service provider might have specialized lockout equipment that will allow you to unlock your car without damaging it.
Use them correctly If they are available. Be aware of where to put the wedge tool. A lot of people place the wedge tool in the top corner of a door, which is the most vulnerable. This is a bad move because you could damage the weather stripping and wires within the doors. Instead, place the wedge in the most extensive area of the gap you can see and in the area where it will have maximum leverage.
The Pump Wedge is a high-quality inflatable wedge that is constructed of durable, non-marring vinyl. It is able to slide between the door of the vehicle and the door frame, and is inflated to create a separation. This will let you slide in other tools like a long-reach car opening tool rod. It has a hook at one end that you can shape in order to grab the latch on the door handle.
This can be done with a pair wooden door stops. They can be placed on the rear of the door to make the space wide enough to accommodate a rod. You can also try the slim jim which is a thin metal strip that can be bent into a hook to latch on the lock and pull it up. This method is not for the faint-hearted as you have to be careful not scratch the weather stripping on your door.
A shoelace is a good option, but it works only on older vehicles that don't have a button to unlock the mechanism. You can tie knots in the middle, and then move the lace upwards and downwards along the door seam until you locate the latch. Then move the lace upwards and down until it catches onto the lock. Tighten the slip knot, then pull upward. This is more difficult and could scratch the paint on the door or scratch the trim if not careful.
Inflatable Wedge
You can easily unlock your car using an inflatable wedge-shaped door opener. This will spare you from having to use prying tools or slim jims. locked out of car service for cars can be placed between the window and the frame of the vehicle and when they are inflated, they create a space sufficient to accommodate a long-reach tool such as a slim jim or a button grabber. This method is safer than using tools for prying and can be used when you don't have a screwdriver.
Another option to unlock a car without damaging the exterior or interior is to make use of a coat hanger made of wire that has been shaped into a hook. You can use this to grab the lock button, and it could work better than a flat screwdriver as it is less likely to cause damage to the paint on your car. However, you should check the other doors to ensure there are no other ways to gain access to the door.
You can also use a plastic bag and twist it into a noose, or v-shaped shape. Be careful not to tear the bag since it can make the situation worse. This technique is especially helpful if you can't find the lock button. This method isn't as reliable as a wedge or a metal coat hanger, but it could help you in a pinch.
Keep calm and put safety first. There are many options to deal with this issue. If you have read this article, you'll be prepared for any situation that may arise. By following the steps we've provided to you, you'll be able to unlock your car and get moving with your day without causing any stress or damage. And of course, if you can, always be certain to have your keys with you when you leave your vehicle.
Shoelace
Getting locked out of your vehicle is one of those "oh crap" moments that can make your day miserable. In the event of an emergency it's a good idea keep a few things at hand to aid in unlocking your car without breaking the windows. Certain of these items are simple to find and can save you the cost of a locksmith or waiting for roadside assistance to arrive.
A shoelace, or even twine, can be a great tool for unlocking the car. It's easy to use and will work on a wide range of vehicles. The most important thing to consider is a car with post locks. They are stacked vertically on the window sill and are easily accessible from outside of the vehicle. To complete the task make use of a shoelace create a slip knot, then move it into the crack between the frame of the window and the door. Once the slip knot is placed and secured, pull both ends the string upwards in order to lasso the lock.
This method is only applicable on older models that have a locked that is hooked. A screwdriver, should it be available could help open the door in a slightly more aggressive manner. Another option is to snag an object from a nearby object, like a doorframe, or a piece of wood, and then stick it inside the window frame to make space for the rod that you will use to push the lock's interior button.
Although the above methods may be somewhat safe for some drivers, it's best to seek assistance if you can. This will stop any further damage to your vehicle, and it will also reduce the chance of an accident resulting from the stress of the situation. If you do not have a mobile phone or are unable to call for help it is essential to always let trusted family members and acquaintances know where your vehicle is. In addition, a spare set of keys can be stored in an easily accessible place on the vehicle, so you can get them back if needed.
Wire Hanger
There is no doubt that locking your keys in your car can be a stressful situation. But, the most important thing is to remain calm and think logically about what options you have to get them back. You will avoid making the situation worse if do not panic.
You can also use a modified wire hanger for entry into your car. You'll have to unravel the coat hanger so that it has a straight end and a hook that you can use to move the lock rod inside your door. Once you reach the lock rod you should be able to pull it up to open the door.
Another option you could consider is using a rod, or even an element of metal from your car's body. It is essential to make sure you don't cause any damage to the vehicle in this procedure and it is best if you can do so without taking the car apart. This method works better on older cars than on modern ones. However it is possible to use it on models with unique outer door handles.
You can perform similar things using a shoestring tied in the slip knot. This can be done on a postlock, but is more difficult to maneuver since you'll be relying on the tension of the string to grab it. You can accomplish this by threading a shoestring into the tiny hole in the weatherstripping on the doors of your vehicle. Once the string has been threaded, you can pull it tight to create a loop that will wrap around the lock and allow you to pull it out. If you are lucky the lock will be in the right place.