5 Unlock Your Car Lessons Learned From Professionals Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces

Many cars now come with heightened security features. Older models usually include post locks that can be opened using simple techniques.

Some car manufacturers offer mobile apps that can unlock your car. You can check with your automaker if this feature is available to you.

1. Shoelaces

If you are able to use them, shoelaces could be a fantastic tool when you are locked out of your car. For those who have vehicles that have the locking tab mechanism which slides vertically up and down typically near the window, there's an easy trick you can try to unlock your car using nothing more than a pair of shoelaces.

First, remove the shoelaces from a pair of shoes that 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. Slide the noose into the crack that exists between the car's frame and the door. Then, you can move the shoelace so that it connects to the lock mechanism. This may require a bit of trial and error however when the shoelace has been secured, simply pull up on both ends to unlock your car.

The most important thing to keep in mind when using this method is to work slowly and be cautious not to scratch or damage your car during the process. You can save money by using this method instead of calling a roadside assistance or locksmith.

While this is a fantastic alternative to other more abrasive methods, like using a coat hanger (which can scratch your car) however, it may not always work, particularly on the more sophisticated models of cars. If the locking system of your vehicle doesn't respond, you may need to use a screwdriver or a long wooden bar to open it open.

2. locked car keys in car

Being locked out of your vehicle is among the most frustrating things that can happen in our modern world. Many people have witnessed their fathers or uncles use coathangers to open car door when they were children however, this is risky and might not work for all vehicles. The use of a hanger to open your car may damage your door's frame, and is illegal in some states.

A simple coat hanger made of wire can be used to help unlock a car by slipping it into the space between your door and frame. Slide the hanger into this gap and bend it into the shape of a small "V" shape so that it gets a good grip on the lock post. Pull up on the hanger and you'll let go of the pin that controls the lock. You may need to move the hook several times to catch something that can move the lock. However, it should not take a lot of effort to lift the bar.

If you are unable to reach the hook of the coat hanger to let go of the control arm, you can put it in between the window and the weather stripping. The hook end of the hanger might be required to locate the area. Once you've found it then jiggle and wiggle until you can hear the door open. This technique isn't without risk however, it could be a great method to gain entry into your vehicle without having to seek professional assistance or the use of a key. If this method doesn't work, you can call a roadside service or locksmith to get more help.

3. Wooden Wedge

A quick slip of the fingers or a little bit of carelessness can leave you without your keys in a hurry. And if you don't have the resources to contact AAA roadside assistance or locksmith services, you'll require something quick to unlock your car.

You can use just about any object that can create a space between your door and frame, like a coat hanger or tennis ball or even an screwdriver. You may have to spray some air into the gap to allow it to be wide enough for you to insert your tool and hit the lock button though, so be careful not to scratch your car.

Many people use a pair of pliers or other tools when they lock their keys in their vehicles however, it's better to choose an instrument that doesn't scratch or scratch your aluminum trim or paint. Inflatable wedges are great for this purpose, and can be found in a variety of sizes that fit inside most doors.

A long length of plastic folded in half, similar to the grocery bag is a second alternative. Slide the strip into the door that has been pried open, and, when it gets to the lock, wrap it around the knob and pull it upwards. This method can be a bit messy but it's a lot more efficient than hanging a coat or using a screwdriver, which is difficult to control.

If you're a more recent model car owner, it's likely the lock mechanism doesn't have the traditional handle that is located on the outside of the vehicle but instead is located on the top of the window near the weather stripping. To unlock a car with this kind of lock, you'll need to bend the wire hanger's tip to form hook. Slide it into the gap between the window and the door (or weather stripping) until it reaches the lever or switch that locks.

4. Air Wedge

Repo and locksmith professionals utilize air wedges like this one from HPC to make more room around the car window frame so that they can access tools easily. They also serve as an effective option to prevent damaging the vehicle while gaining access without a key.


An air pump wedge works by sliding between the door and the door's weather stripping into a position where proper pressure is applied. Then, a manual hand pump is used to blow up the bag until it separates the car door from the vehicle window and makes an opening wide enough for inserting a car-unlocking tool. This enables you to unlock the door of a vehicle without using a key, by breaking the lock mechanism manually.

A good air wedge should have an elasticizer that stops it from collapsing when it's pumped up and a release valve to avoid over-inflation. It also comes with a durable, non-marring vinyl bag that is designed for a variety of uses. These wedges are best when used with a long-reach automobile unlocking tool for doors or a picker that can be inserted inside the wedge.

It's important to know that one shouldn't try this method of opening the car door. This could result in damage to the vehicle which will require costly repairs at a bodyshop. Additionally this isn't an appropriate method to gain entry into your car in the event that you've locked your keys inside.

It is recommended to call a professional roadside service to help you if you're stuck. These services will send a technician who is trained and experienced with the correct tools to open your car door without damaging it. These experts can help with battery replacement and towing as well as other issues.

5. Rod

A rod is a thin, long metal piece that is typically tapered or cylindrical. It is used to support another object. In the car, it could be used to make a gap through which you can access your keys and then open the door. It isn't easy to maneuver this method, but it is worth a try. If you're lucky, it may be successful.

If you're not confident trying to open your car on your own, you could ask a friend to do it for you. You can also hire an auto locksmith. You can find locksmiths in your area using the phone book or online. Another option is to sign up for an AAA membership, which provides roadside assistance. This service will send someone to your home or office within a short time and allow them unlock your car without hassles.

Many newer cars have security features that stop people from breaking into them without a key. Older models are more difficult to get into. To unlock these vehicles, use a coat hanger, or a rod. To do this, you must separate the coat hanger from its hook and bend its straight side to create the shape of a hook. To create a gap between the hook and the weather strip into the door slit. Then, you can insert the rod and move it to press or slide the car's door lock switch.

Certain automakers have smartphones with apps that can help you unlock your car when you're locked out. BMW and Hyundai, for example offer lockout applications that let you unlock your vehicle using the smartphone's screen. OnStar is a program offered by other automakers, such as General Motors that can assist you if your car is locked out. To use these apps you'll need an iPhone 11 or later or Apple Watch Series 5 or later, with the most recent version of watchOS and be within Bluetooth range of your car compatible with Bluetooth.