The 10 Most Dismal Lockout Car Fails Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented

How to Prevent a Lockout Car

If you've ever been locked out, you're aware how difficult it can be. Thankfully, there are several things you can do to avoid this occurring again in the future.

You should always keep an extra car key in your possession. It is also advisable to invest in roadside assistance services. These services come with numerous benefits, like a free lockout every year.

1. Help is available

A car lockout can be the result of a variety of reasons. You may have locked your keys inside the car as you closed the door, or you may not be able to access the vehicle after it has been damaged by a collision or by a burglar. It's best to remain calm and contact an expert instead of trying to fix the issue yourself.

Keep the contact details of an emergency roadside assistance or locksmith in your wallet or on your phone. Certain service providers offer lockout services at a reasonable cost and are accessible 24/7. Certain companies have mobile apps that let you unlock your vehicle lockout by tapping. These apps are especially helpful for those who are in a rush and shut the door before remembering that your keys are inside.

Over time, dirt and rust build up in your locks, causing them to become stuck or stop opening. The key fob could also lose its programming or the receiver in the car may fail. A professional can restore access to your vehicle using sophisticated tools and techniques.

In the past, police officers could assist you in unlocking your car with tools such as the slim Jim. The majority of officers won't assist you unless your vehicle was parked by a pet or a child. It is recommended to call an emergency police number instead. A lot of newer vehicles come with an app that lets you unlock the vehicle from any location. If you own a new model, visit the automaker's website for this information.

2. Use a spare key

One of the most effective ways to avoid a lockout is to keep an extra key. This can be as simple as putting it in your purse, keys locked in car no spare pocket or backpack that takes you wherever you go. Another option is to purchase the magnetic key safe that keeps your keys locked in car no spare safe and easy to find. Make sure to put it in a location that isn't simple for a car thief to locate or access for example, the underside of your car.

If you don't have an extra set, it's recommended to make arrangements with someone who has one. If you leave your keys in a friend's or family member's car, they'll have the tools to open it and get you back on the road. This is a particularly good idea when you have children traveling with you; it's always best to be as prepared as you can for any unexpected situations.

If you do not have a family or friend member available, the next step is to contact roadside assistance. These programs usually have trained technicians who have specific wedges and long-reach tools that can help unlock the door of your car. Check your auto insurance policy for coverage for vehicle locks.

If you don't have a tool or wedge, you can use an alternative that is less destructive, but more destructive method of picking the lock, such as shoelaces, or coathanger wire. However it is more risky than other methods and isn't easy to accomplish with modern vehicles that use sophisticated locking mechanisms. It's best to call for assistance from a professional if you don't succeed with these strategies.

3. Make use of a wedge, or a long-reach tool

A wedge or long-reach tool is an essential item to have in a car lockout kit that allows you to unlock your car without damaging the door or putting yourself at risk. The most straightforward method to use this tool is by inserting it between the window and the door frame, leaving enough room for you to manipulate the locking mechanism inside. Depending on what type of lock is in your car the wedge might require to be moved vertically or horizontally so that it can be slid into the locking mechanism.

Another excellent tool for car lockouts is a coat hanger made of wire, which can be fashioned into different shapes and used to press buttons or lift door handles. This is a great solution because it's easy, cheap, and effective. The only drawback is that it may be difficult to put the metal hook in place if you need to reach behind the door's panels and insert the bent end.

Another helpful tool for car lockouts is an air wedge, which is a foam or plastic device that can be inserted between the window and the frame of the door to create a gap that allows the user to insert an extended-reach tool inside. Air wedges can also be filled slowly, which prevents them from causing excessive pressure or causing damage to the window frame or door. Zip's AW Direct carries air wedges as well as long-reach car tools from Steck and Access Tools.

4. Use a door stopper

You can use a car door stop to cut a gap open in your vehicle that will allow you to reach the lock button. According to YouTube user assertivecrystalgg45, the key is to slide the door stop between the top part of the window frame and the body of the vehicle without damaging the paint. Once you've made a tiny hole, you can then insert the rod of metal and push down on the unlocking button inside the door. This method is best suited for vehicles with electronic locks, however it could work on regular locks as well.

Another tool you can use to unlock your car is a shoelace. Make a slip knot in the middle of the shoelace. You can tighten it by pulling both ends. Then, thread the other end of the shoelace into the corner of the door frame and maneuver it around the lock button. Then, pull upwards after placing the shoelace on top of the lock button.

Check to make sure that the door is locked prior to trying this method. This method might not work in cars with an interior hook lock.

If you're still locked out of your vehicle, try calling for roadside assistance if have AAA or another membership that provides this service. Some automakers offer download apps that will aid you in accessing your vehicle in the event of a lockout. Check with your carmaker to determine if there's an option that works with your specific model. You can also find suggestions for a locksmith in your area online. These locksmiths typically offer competitive prices and will help you get back in your car fast.

5. Use a wire hanger

Being locked out of your car could be a nightmare There are a variety of tools to get back inside. Using a Slim Jim or modified wire coat hanger can be an easy way to gain entry into your car without damaging it. You can also try using shoelaces or credit cards to unlock your car door. Whatever method you decide to go with, make sure you keep calm and think clearly to find the best solution for your specific situation.

To hang it first, straighten it as much as you can. Place the end of the hanger in the space between your car's door and window. It may be necessary to move it around a bit to locate the proper place, but once you do connect the hanger's end around the lock and push it up on it. If you're not successful, you can try again, or call roadside assistance.

To avoid future lockouts, you can keep a spare key on hand, put a doorstop under your door to isolate it from the frame of your car and think about installing an alarm system to provide security. Also, be cautious when locking your car and don't forget to examine all doors prior to driving off. If you follow these steps you will avoid getting stuck in your car and save yourself many headaches in the future.