We’ve all been there: you’ve locked your car, and the sinking feeling washes over you as you realise that your keys are still inside. Whether they were left on the front seat, the dashboard, or even in the boot, being locked out without a spare can be a stressful and frustrating experience. However, there are effective steps you can take to resolve the issue. Here’s a guide on what to do if you’ve locked your keys inside your car and don’t have a spare key.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step in this situation is to remain calm. Panicking won’t help, and taking a few moments to think will allow you to figure out the best course of action. Check all the doors and windows to see if there is an unlocked entry point. If you find that a door or window is slightly open, you may be able to unlock the car manually using a long object like a rod or a coat hanger. However, if none of the doors are accessible, you’ll need to call for professional help.
Contact a Professional Car Unlocking Service
The most reliable and safest way to get back into your car is by contacting a car unlocking service (Car locksmith Doncaster). These services are provided by experts who have the necessary tools and experience to unlock cars quickly and without causing damage. Whether your car has a manual lock, an electronic lock, or keyless entry, a professional locksmith can help.
When you call the emergency car unlocking service, be ready to provide details such as the make, model, and year of your car. This information allows the locksmith to bring the appropriate tools and ensures that they are well-prepared to handle your vehicle’s locking system. Many services offer rapid response times and can arrive at your location within a short period, sometimes within 30 minutes, to help you get back inside your car.
Avoid the Temptation of DIY Unlocking
It’s tempting to try and unlock the car yourself when you’re in a rush, but attempting to break into your vehicle with makeshift tools is more likely to cause damage than solve the problem. DIY attempts to unlock your car, such as using a coat hanger, a slim rod, or any other improvised tool, can harm the vehicle’s paint, the door seals, or even the locking mechanism itself.
Moreover, modern vehicles come equipped with advanced locking systems that require specialised knowledge and tools to open. Using the wrong technique can result in a malfunction of the car’s internal system or activate the car alarm. If the car has electronic locking, you may accidentally trigger a malfunction that could be costly to repair.
What to Expect When Calling a Car Unlocking Service
When you call a professional car unlocking service, here’s what you can expect:
- Quick Arrival: The car locksmith will arrive promptly, typically within a 30-45 minute window depending on your location. They will come prepared with all the necessary tools to unlock your car safely.
- Advanced Tools and Techniques: Depending on your car’s locking system, the locksmith may use an air wedge to create a small gap between the door and frame, allowing them to insert a rod or other unlocking tool. If your car has a traditional manual lock, they may use a slim jim or big easy tool to unlock the door.
- No Damage to Your Vehicle: With a professional locksmith, you can rest assured that your car will be unlocked without causing any damage to the paint, lock mechanisms, or any of the car’s internal systems.
Prevent Future Lockouts
Once you’ve regained access to your car, it’s a good idea to take preventive steps to avoid getting locked out in the future. One of the most effective ways is to ensure you always have a spare key available. You can leave it with a trusted friend or family member, or consider hiding it in a secure location close to your vehicle, such as a magnetic key holder placed under the bumper.
Another option is to consider a keyless entry system or a smart key app that allows you to unlock your car remotely. These systems can help you avoid the stress of lockouts and offer added convenience, especially in emergencies.
Getting locked out of your car with no spare key can be frustrating, but it’s important to stay calm and act quickly. The best way to handle the situation is by calling a professional car unlocking service. Avoid DIY methods, as they can cause damage to your car. A professional locksmith will be able to use the proper tools to unlock your vehicle safely and efficiently. Once the problem is resolved, consider taking preventive measures, such as keeping a spare key and using a keyless entry system, to avoid future lockouts.
