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What to Do If You're Locked Out of Your Car

Being locked out of your car is a frustrating and often unexpected situation that can leave you feeling helpless and stranded. Whether you left your keys inside the car, lost them, or the lock is jammed, getting back into your vehicle can seem like an impossible task. But fear not, there are steps you can take to regain entry to your car without causing any damage. In this blog post, we'll discuss what you should do if you find yourself locked out of your car and provide helpful tips and guidance along the way. So sit back, relax, and let's get started!

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first and most important step when facing a car lockout is to stay calm. It's easy to panic and feel frustrated, but it's crucial to keep a clear head to deal with the situation effectively. Take deep breaths and assess the situation calmly. Ask yourself these questions:

"Do I have a spare key?"
"Are my keys visible inside the car?"
"Is there a spare key hidden somewhere on or near the vehicle?"
"Is the car in a safe location and can I wait for help to arrive?"

Once you've answered these questions, you'll have a better understanding of the situation and can move on to the next steps.

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Call for Assistance

If you don't have a spare key or can't find one, the next best thing is to call for help. Here are some options you can consider:

A friend or family member: If someone you know has a spare key, reach out to them and ask if they can bring it to you.
An emergency locksmith: A professional locksmith can quickly come to your location and help you regain entry to your car without causing any damage. Make sure to choose a reputable and licensed locksmith for quality and reliable service.
AAA or roadside assistance: If you're a member of AAA or have a roadside assistance plan, you can call them for help. They often have locksmith services included in their plans.

It's always a good idea to have the number for a locksmith or roadside assistance in your phone in case of emergencies.

Try Other Entry Points

If you don't have access to a spare key or can't reach a professional for assistance, it's time to think outside the box. Here are some creative ways to gain entry to your car without a key:

Use a shoelace: This one might seem strange, but it's a tried and tested method. Tie a small loop in the middle of a shoelace, and then use the loop to pull up the lock button or door handle on your car. This method works best on older car models with manual locks.
Use a coat hanger: This method is similar to the shoelace one, but instead of a shoelace, you'll use a straightened coat hanger. Bend one end of the hanger into a hook shape and maneuver it through the top corner of the door to push the lock button or pull the handle.
Call the police: If you're in a potentially dangerous situation or don't feel comfortable using the above methods, you can call the police. They have the tools and expertise to open your car safely and without causing any damage.

It's important to note that these methods should only be used as a last resort if you absolutely cannot contact a professional.

Take Preventative Measures

Now that you've successfully regained access to your car, it's time to think about preventing future lockouts. Here are some simple yet effective measures you can take to avoid being locked out of your car again:

Keep a spare key: We mentioned this before, but it's worth repeating. Always have a spare key somewhere safe and accessible.
Use a key finder app: If you're prone to misplacing your keys, you can invest in a key finder app. These apps have a tracking device that you attach to your keychain and can help you locate your keys with a simple click on your phone.
Get a keyless entry system: Many newer car models have keyless entry systems that use a keypad or remote control to unlock the car. These can be a great alternative to traditional keys and can save you the hassle of being locked out.
Develop a routine: Make a habit of double-checking that you have your keys before locking the car. One simple routine could be saying "keys, wallet, phone" out loud whenever you get out of your car.

Locked Out of Your Car? Don't Panic! Contact Us for Fast and Reliable Lockout Services in Montgomery, AL

If you find yourself locked out of your car in Montgomery, AL, or the surrounding areas, contact our team at About Time Locksmith at (334) 868-5628 for fast and reliable locksmith services. We offer key replacement, ignition services, commercial and residential lock installation, master key systems, rekeying services, and more. Don't let a lockout ruin your day, give us a call, and we'll have you back on the road in no time!

FAQ

How much does it cost to get a locksmith to unlock a car?

The cost of a locksmith service to unlock a car may vary depending on your location, the time of day or night, and the complexity of the lockout situation. It's best to check with different locksmiths or roadside assistance services for accurate pricing.
Can locksmiths unlock any type of car?

Professional locksmiths have the expertise and tools to unlock most cars, including older and newer models. However, some rare or luxury cars may have more complex locking systems that may require specialized tools or knowledge.
Can I use a slim jim to unlock my car?

Using a slim jim to unlock a car is not recommended as it can cause damage to modern locking systems. Plus, it requires a certain level of expertise to maneuver the slim jim correctly, which can be challenging for someone without proper training.
How long does it take for a locksmith to unlock a car?

The time it takes to unlock a car may vary depending on the type of car and the complexity of the lock. In most cases, a professional locksmith should be able to unlock a car within a few minutes without causing any damage.
Do I need to have proof of ownership to unlock my car?

It's a good idea to have proof of ownership, such as a driver's license or registration, when requesting a locksmith service to unlock your car. This is to ensure that the person requesting the service is the rightful owner of the vehicle.