You need to be somewhere, but you’ve just realized your key is locked in your car. How do you get back into your vehicle? Is it even possible without professional assistance?
In this how-to guide, we will take you through some possible solutions to this common problem. Keep in mind that these methods aren’t full-proof and there is always a chance of damaging your car door or window in the process.
How to Get Back Into Your Vehicle – Potential Lockout Solutions
If you would like to try and get back into your vehicle yourself, here are a few things you can try.
Grab a Shoestring.
If your car door is able to unlock by pulling up the locking mechanism, this could work for you. Tie a small loop in the middle of the shoelace so that you can use it as a lasso of sorts. Once you work the string into the interior of your car, hook it on the lock and tighten the loop. You can now pull on the string to pull the lock up. This is a good option for when you’re not at home.
Find a Coat Hanger.
If you have a wire coat hanger at home, this is another option. Untwist the hanger to create a hook and maneuver it into the weather stripping of the window. You can now use the hook to pull on the lock mechanism.
Use a Slim Jim.
A slim jim is a thin strip of metal – you’ve probably seen it used in a few movies before. You can only use this on older locks, unfortunately. Once you insert the tool into the interior of your car door, you should be able to move the locking mechanism inside the door.
Find a Screwdriver.
This is not an ideal choice because it requires you to damage your car door slightly. Basically, you first need to find a way to pry open your car door slightly. You can now stick the screwdriver inside to push the unlock button. If you’re not at home, you would need to head to a hardware store to use this method. You would be better off spending your time and money on a professional locksmith.
Use a Strip of Plastic.
Have a plain, thin strip of plastic lying around? This could work too. Bend the strip in half and slid it through the crack of your car door. You should now be able to lift up the locking mechanism and get back into your vehicle.
Grab a Tennis Ball.
The final method is a bit strange but it’s known to work quite well. Start by making a hole in the ball using a drill or screwdriver. Place the hole on top of the keyhole of your car door and push. As you release the suction, the car door should unlock…technically.
Getting Assistance from a Locksmith
Some of these methods can get you back into your car, but there are no guarantees. There is also always a chance that you will end up causing more damage than these methods are worth. To save yourself time, money, and frustration, it makes more sense to contact professionals such as South Beach Locksmith. We specialize in vehicle lockouts and we can assist you at any time of the day or night.
Call us on 305-692-0234 for assistance.
