What to Do When You Lock Your Car and the Key Is Inside

Finding yourself locked out of your car with the keys inside is a frustrating situation that many drivers have experienced. Fortunately, there are several practical steps you can take to resolve the problem. This article will guide you through the process, offer solutions, and help you understand what to do when you lock your car and the key is inside. With the right approach, you’ll be able to get back on the road quickly and without hassle.

Steps to Take Immediately When You Lock Your Car and the Key Is Inside

If you’ve accidentally locked your keys in your car, take a deep breath. Panicking won’t help. Below are the key steps to consider:

1. Stay Calm: Take a moment to calm yourself. Stressing out will only cloud your thinking and prevent you from considering the best options.
2. Assess the Situation: Check if any doors or windows are slightly open. Sometimes, the situation is not as bad as it seems.
3. Contact a Roadside Assistance Service: Many insurance companies offer roadside assistance services, which can send a professional locksmith to help you unlock your car.
4. Use a Spare Key: If you have a spare key at home or with a friend or family member, contact them for assistance. It's always wise to keep a backup key handy.
5. Consider DIY Solutions: If you’re in a hurry, there are some DIY methods that could help you unlock the car, such as using a coat hanger or unlocking tool.

Common Solutions to Unlock Your Car

Here are some common methods to unlock a car if you've locked your keys inside:

Method	Description	Pros	Cons
Roadside Assistance	A professional locksmith can help you open your car quickly.	Safe, professional, and fast.	Cost may apply if you don’t have roadside assistance coverage.
DIY Unlocking Tools	You can use a tool like a coat hanger or a window wedge to unlock the door manually.	Cost-effective and fast.	Can damage your car if not done properly.
Spare Key	If you have a spare key, you can quickly resolve the situation.	Easy and no cost involved.	Not always an option if you don’t have one nearby.

What Not to Do When You Lock Your Car and the Key Is Inside

It’s equally important to know what to avoid when trying to retrieve your car keys. Here’s a list of actions you should refrain from:

• Don’t attempt to break the window. This can be expensive to fix and may not be necessary.
• Avoid using blunt force to open the door, as it can damage the locking mechanism.
• Don’t leave your car running unattended, even if you can’t get in—this could be dangerous.

How to Prevent Locking Your Keys in the Car

To avoid future lockouts, here are some preventive measures:

1. Always Double-Check: Make it a habit to double-check whether your keys are inside before locking the door.
2. Invest in a Keyless Entry System: Many modern vehicles offer keyless entry, which eliminates the risk of leaving keys inside.
3. Keep Spare Keys Handy: Store a spare key in a safe place like with a trusted friend or family member.

Can You Call the Police for a Car Lockout?

While it might be tempting to call the police for assistance in a car lockout, law enforcement is generally not equipped to assist with this. It’s better to contact a professional locksmith or use roadside assistance services for this issue. However, in emergencies, such as a child or pet locked inside, police may intervene to help.

What Happens If You Lock Your Keys in the Trunk?

If you lock your keys in the trunk, the first step is to check if your car’s back seat can be folded down, as this may give you access to the trunk. If that doesn’t work, you can try using unlocking tools or contact a professional locksmith. Some locksmiths have specialized equipment to unlock trunks without causing damage.

How Much Does It Cost to Unlock a Car?

The cost to unlock a car can vary depending on the method used and the service provider. Roadside assistance may charge a small fee if it’s not covered by your insurance, while locksmiths can charge between $50 to $100, depending on the time of day and complexity of the job. DIY methods are free, but can cause damage if not done correctly.

Emergency Steps for Getting Back Into Your Car

In urgent situations, such as when your child or pet is locked inside, you should take immediate action:

1. Call 911 or emergency services to dispatch help.
2. Attempt to unlock the car if it is safe to do so.
3. Use any available tools or methods to access the vehicle as quickly as possible.

How Long Does It Take to Unlock a Car?

Typically, it takes about 15-30 minutes to unlock a car, depending on the method used and the type of vehicle. Professional locksmiths can unlock most cars in under 20 minutes. DIY methods might take longer and can be more challenging if you're not experienced.

What Are the Risks of Trying to Unlock Your Car Yourself?

While attempting to unlock your car yourself may seem like an easy fix, there are several risks:

• Damage to the vehicle’s lock or window.
• Injuries from using makeshift tools like coat hangers or wedges.
• Longer time spent compared to calling a professional.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, locking your keys inside the car is an inconvenient and stressful situation, but there are several ways to resolve it. Whether you choose to call a professional locksmith, use a spare key, or try some DIY methods, it’s important to handle the situation calmly and safely. By keeping a spare key, using a keyless entry system, and taking preventative measures, you can reduce the chances of a future lockout.