4 Things You Can Do If You’ve Locked Yourself Out of Your Car
We’ve been there, done that. What are we referring to? We’re talking about that sudden realization that you forgot your car keys in your car, but alas, you’ve locked yourself out. Fortunately, there are many ways to solve such an issue. In fact, many car FOBs today will keep you from actually locking yourself out. They have proximity sensors that know when they’re in or out of the car. If they’re inside, you essentially cannot lock yourself out. But of course, what happens if they run out of battery or you lose the FOB on the way back to the car?
Here’s what you can do in case you’ve locked yourself out of the car:
1. Always Plan Ahead
Planning ahead of time is the best way to handle a lockout situation. There are many solutions to choose from, like signing up for a car manufacturer app, getting a roadside service subscription, or giving a spare key or fob to a trusted family member or friend. By taking these steps before a lockout happens, you will be prepared and have the solutions available when you need them.
2. Use Your Phone as the Key
Manufacturers are making their phone apps more capable of controlling certain functions in their vehicles. This includes the ability to lock and start the vehicle remotely. Some of these apps may require a fee-based subscription, and you must pair your phone to the car before you can use it like a key. So, as we’ve mentioned already, plan ahead and prepare, just in case.
3. Call an Expert
If you don’t have access to a spare key, you can still get help. You can use your mobile device to call for assistance from AAA, a car manufacturer’s roadside assistance service, or a third-party roadside assistance provider. The length of the wait will vary, but these services can help you if you are locked out of your car. Generally, you can wait in a secure, comfortable location until a technician arrives. Additionally, you can contact local locksmiths for 24-hour support, though it might cost extra. Lastly, some towing companies offer lockout services as well.
4. Phone the Police
If you are in an emergency situation with no other options, it’s best to call 911. Police officers are the fastest to respond in these situations and may be able to open the car with a slim jim or even break a window. If there is no phone available, use an object to break the smallest side window in a corner. This is the quickest and most economical way to make sure you and your passengers are safe.
Get Help for Your Lock Right Away
Locking your keys in your car can be a stressful situation, but there are several ways to get back in. If you have a spare key, you can use it to get back in, or you can call for assistance from AAA, a car manufacturer’s roadside assistance service, or a third-party roadside assistance provider. Additionally, you can contact local locksmiths for 24-hour support, or you can call the police if you are in an emergency situation. With these tips, you can be sure to get back in your car quickly and safely!
Action Lock Doc has offered quality locksmith services for over 40 years to the DFW community. If you are looking for a professional to deal with your car locks, get in touch with us today.
Joe, a former CIO and tech industry professional, has made it his mission to secure Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) through the Action Lock Doc, Dallas Safe and Vault, and Summa Security brands. When he’s not running the show at the office, you’ll find him writing about commercial and residential locksmithing, access control, and safes.