Locked Out Of Car No Spare Key: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key

You walk away from your vehicle and realize that you've locked your keys inside. You might be feeling helpless and panicked.

If you're lucky you'll find that a friend or family member may have a spare key to allow access to your car. If you don't have a spare key, you might need to call an auto locksmith or a towing service.

1. Contact a family or friend member

Sometimes we are in a rush to get somewhere and accidentally close the car door without thinking. Sometimes it happens when we're distracted, like when we are chatting with someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brain just doesn't quite focus. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car isn't enjoyable experience. Particularly when you don't have a spare key! It can be a stressful situation, but there are ways to gain access.

Contact your family member or a friend. They will be notified that you're in trouble and they could even bring an extra car key. If not, at least they will be able to help you by using other tools to unlock your car. You can use items like a coat hanger made of wire or shoelaces.

Contact 911 immediately if the situation is hazardous for instance, if an elderly person, a child or anyone else's security is in danger. You can dial 911 and they will send an emergency crew to your location to break the window or unlock the door using a slim jim.

If the situation isn't hazardous, it is best to wait until a professional can help you unlock your vehicle. This is because DIY methods can cause damage to the door and trigger security systems, or void the warranty. It's also important to know that certain methods may not work with the latest models because they are equipped with specific locking mechanisms.

Consider purchasing a spare car key to prevent this from occurring again. They can be affordable for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. Whatever you choose, they'll save you a lot of stress in the future! You can also keep them in a place that is easy to reach, like your purse or wallet.

2. Contact for a locksmith

You're likely to lock your keys inside your car at one moment. It can be a bit frustrating and embarrassing to discover that keys are missing after closing the door.

To avoid this scenario, keep a spare at your home, at work or in your bag for exercise. Many people also purchase a key chain that is attached to their wallet or purse in the event that they lose their keys. You'll always have an extra key in your bag and will not have to be concerned about contacting roadside assistance or breaking into your car.

If you don't have a spare, it is best to call a professional locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to unlock your car without causing damage to the lock. They will even create new keys on site. They can also give you advice on how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.

If you are a member of AAA it's an obvious option; they can send you a locksmith promptly and at a reasonable cost. The majority of comprehensive auto insurance policies also offer roadside assistance. These services can get you back in your car quickly however, they may cost more than hiring an expert locksmith.


There are many DIY options to open your car without a key, such as a shoelace, wire hanger or a wedge that is curved. However, these options can be risky and time-consuming and are more likely to damage the lock or damage your window. It is important to stay at peace and use these techniques only as an option last resort. If you have children or pets in your vehicle, or are stuck on the side of a highway, you must immediately call 911. The police can assist you, or they may call a towing service for you.

3. Contact a towing company

Next, you need to call a towing company. Many of these services can unlock your car's doors without harming it. If you have an emergency roadside assistance plan, make sure that the number is programmed into your phone or that you are aware of it in order to easily reach them. You may be offered free assistance. You can also contact non-emergency police to inform them about your issue. They can provide you with tips for getting into your car and will send someone to help if necessary.

Getting locked out of your vehicle is never fun, especially when you're stuck in a dangerous location. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be hazardous so it is important to be aware of your surroundings prior to calling for help. If you're not sure how to unlock your vehicle, it is essential to examine all the doors and windows. It could be that you have left a window open, which can sometimes give you access.

Another alternative is to break into your car using tools like a slim jim. This is not recommended as it can damage your car's locks. It is important to know that the majority of insurance policies will not cover the costs for these repairs. Therefore, you should be careful when using any tool that allows access to your vehicle.

spare car key cut of the best ways to stop this from happening is to keep a spare key in your pocket. You can keep it in your wallet or purse or purchase a magnetic keys holder and stick it to the underside of your vehicle. Some people even leave spare keys with a trusted friend or family member so that they can help them in the event of need.

You can also contact your local dealer and see whether they can help you out. Most dealers can provide you with temporary keys so that you can return to your car. They may ask you to show proof of ownership along with other personal details and you should be prepared for that.

4. Call AAA

As a driver, you can help reduce the chance to get locked out of your vehicle by keeping your spare keys in a secure place. Keep an extra key in your wallet, purse or in one of the magnetic containers that you can put on the underside your vehicle. You could also leave a spare in the hands of someone who lives close by or a family member who might be able to help you in a pinch. You may also think about having your vehicle's identification number, also known as VIN, written on a piece of paper inside the glove box to help you quickly call the owner of the car on the phone if you are locked out of your vehicle.

You can contact roadside assistance if you don't own an extra. Some locksmiths specialize in unlocking vehicles and will send an expert to your location within a half hour or so, according to Moody. Others, such as AAA, will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of a roadside service will differ based on the level of membership you have and your insurance plan.

You can also use a bobby-pin or an inflatable wedge to unlock your vehicle without contacting roadside assistance. These tactics can damage the door and should only be used as a last option.

Only call emergency services in the event of immediate danger, if you are unable to unlock your vehicle. If you have pets or children in the vehicle, are stuck on a busy highway, or are in a hazardous area, you should contact emergency services. It is best to avoid using the police and look for other methods of getting back to your vehicle. If you're a member of an auto club or have roadside assistance insurance that covers your costs, but make sure you read the terms of your policy to be sure. If not, you'll need to pay for the locksmith or roadside assistance.