How to Get Locked Out of My Car
You can be locked out of your car for a variety of reasons. You may be locked out of your car for various reasons, ranging from simple forgetfulness to malfunctioning locks. You can reduce the chance of this happening by keeping an extra car key in the hands of an individual or having a roadside assistance plan and utilizing your smartphone in a newer vehicle.
Check the Door Locks
It can be frustrating to discover that you are locked out of your car. It can ruin your day or put you at risk, when it happens in an unsafe area. There are many ways to prevent this from happening by being proactive. This includes having a spare key, being mindful of your keys at all time, and putting in an alarm system.
The inspection of your door locks is one of the first things you should do. You can do this using the Slim Jim tool, which is readily available in a variety of hardware stores. Use the tool with care and ensure you are aware of how to utilize it.
Another option is to try using a coat hanger made of wire. Untwist and then shape the hanger into a hook, then wrap it around the lock and pull it upwards to check if it unlocks your vehicle. This method is best suited for post locks If you have these, give it a try.
If neither of these methods works, you may need to call an emergency locksmith or towing service. They can assist you get into your vehicle without causing damage. They'll also have the tools needed to unlock your vehicle, so be sure you have their number on hand.
Some automakers, such as GM offers services such as OnStar which can assist you out of a lockout. Other options include calling a service provider such as Hurst Towing, which has experts who are trained to handle these incidents.
Another important thing to remember is that locks that are always sticking or difficult to open it could be a sign of low-quality hardware. It's important to always choose hardware that has been rated by the BHMA to ensure it's made to last. Making the investment in better quality hardware will prevent you from being locked out of your vehicle in the future. You can also try lubricating the locks to see if it helps.
Need Help?
Many people find themselves in the midst of a crisis when they realize they've locked their keys inside of their car. Fortunately, there are several ways to escape this kind of situation with minimal hassle and expense. Keep calm. An anxious reaction can only cause more problems.
The most efficient option is to call an emergency towing service in your area. These companies are usually specialized in roadside assistance and have a person nearby who can help you. They also can provide you with a tow truck if needed.
If you don't have a towing service nearby you can call your local police. In the past, police officers were in a position to unlock vehicles using a slim jim, but these days they're unlikely to have the equipment to do this.
A relative or friend who lives in the vicinity is a good idea. They might be able to visit and assist you to open the door of your car without causing damage to the vehicle or incurring any expense. This is a good opportunity to remind yourself that keeping extra keys available is the best way to avoid accidental lockouts.
It's a great idea to keep spare keys in a secure place, and to leave them with someone who can quickly retrieve them in the event you misplace your car keys. Additionally, the latest vehicles typically come with security features that let you open your vehicle remotely through a mobile app or touchscreen. Take a look at the inventory of Longo Toyota and see if you can find the desired vehicle with these features.
You can also contact the dealership if you have an auto or roadside assistance warranty plan. They will be in a position to unlock your vehicle for free. Depending on the warranty or coverage, they may be able unlock your car for free. If they aren't able to do it, they may be able to suggest someone who can. It's also worth checking with non-profit organizations and community support services as they may offer assistance in these kinds of situations at a low cost or even free.
Check the Sunroof
The sunroof has drain pipes which channel condensation or water away from the cabin and toward the ground outside the vehicle. If these drain tubes get blocked and the sunroof starts to be filled with water. This will spill into the cabin of the vehicle and cause stains on the headliner. This is why it's important to check the sunroof drain system on a regular basis.
The most efficient method to accomplish this is to open the sunroof, and pouring a small amount of water into each of the drain holes which are usually accessible through a trough surrounding the opening. Then, carefully thread a wire or similar tool through each tube to remove any debris. You can also make use of a blower to flush each of the tubes and get rid of any water or condensation.
It's recommended to clean the sunroof's tracks and slides frequently. Use a mild, soft detergent to wash away any dirt, dust or other residue. It is also a good idea to lubricate the tracks and slides with a silicon-based lubricant, which will help them move easily.
Regularly inspect the seal on your sunroof, as it may deteriorate over time. If the seal is damaged or cracked, it may allow water and debris into the sunroof. This could lead to other problems.
If you hear any noises of popping or scraping emanating from the sunroof of your car, this is a sign that a problem exists with the motor. This requires professional attention.
Charles from HomeTown Auto Repair & Tire recently found a 2012 Toyota RAV4 with a sunroof that was not working properly. He found that the sunroof had begun to leak and flooding the passenger cabin. This was due to a clogged sunroof drain tube, which was disengaged from the track channel. If the sunroof has stopped working properly, first try cleaning and lubricating the tracks as well as slides. If this does not solve the issue, you should seek out a professional technician for more in-depth diagnosis and repair.
Check the Windows
You can do a variety of things to avoid locking your keys in your car. One of the best ways to prevent this is to keep the spare car keys in a location that you or someone else who knows whereabouts can easily access. Many newer vehicles come with security features such as keyless entry and automatic locks. how do you unlock a car without a key is also recommended to have a cell phone in case you need to call for assistance if you are locked out of your car.
You can also ask a family member or friend to lend you the tools needed to get into your vehicle. You can use a slim Jim or another tool, inflatable bobby pins or doorstops or shoelaces. These tools can open your door in seconds, which will spare you from waiting for the police or fire department.
If your windows don't work correctly it could be because the door lock switch was reprogrammed. If the window isn't rolling down or up when you push the switch, this is usually due to a lack of lubrication and can easily be fixed.
To verify if the switch is working, push the button while slamming the door several times to determine if it starts to work. If the switch does not work you can make use of your fist and smash the door frame or window. Be cautious not to scratch your vehicle.
If none of these tips work, you can call for roadside assistance to help you get into your vehicle. The majority of roadside assistance services offer a limited number free lockouts per year and can give you tips for avoiding being locked out of your car in the future. You can also contact a towing or locksmith service. They will use their skills and experience to break into your car, but you'll be charged for the cost.