Suppose you’re walking out the door when you realize your keys are still inside. Getting locked out of your car is one of the most stressful situations for any driver. It can happen to anyone. So, if you want to get into your locked car without much hassle, you need to know how to get the keys out safely. Below, we’ll cover ways to do it safely, how to get help, and how to prevent it from happening again.
How to get the keys out of your locked car: 5 Smart options
Locked keys in your car? It happens even to careful drivers. You should stay calm and do a quick check: are all doors truly locked, are the windows fully up, and (depending on the model) does the trunk still open?
You should look for easy wins first: a spare key or remote, the emergency key blade hidden in many fobs, or try holding the fob right by the driver’s door handle. If a child, pet, or anyone vulnerable is inside and the temperature outside is extreme, then you should call emergency services immediately.
Otherwise, the five ways below prioritize fast, low-risk options before any DIY that could cause damage.
1) Use your automaker app or brand remote service
Most modern cars include a companion app or connected service; for example, Ford has the app called FordPass, Nissan has NissanConnect, etc. So, if you have your app set up, you can then find the option for unlocking your car’s door in the app. Once you have selected that option, the app verifies your account and sends a secure signal to your vehicle. Your car receives the said signal and unlocks the car. It is usually the fastest, cleanest unlock and requires no tools, and has no risk.
However, there are a few things that you shouldn’t do here. You shouldn’t try to open the window or doors, or you shouldn’t use things like slim jim/coat hangers. Also, you shouldn’t spam the unlock button in the app, as repeated use may force some cars to re-lock.
If the app won’t work, many brands or dealers can unlock the car remotely after they confirm you own it. You would need to provide them with your ID and VIN. If that still doesn’t solve it, you should move on to the next option.
2) Backup access
You should use the access you already have: a spare key, a remote, or the emergency key blade hidden in many fobs. These options are fast, low-risk, and don’t involve prying anything.
A trusted person can bring your spare key, and many key fobs hide a slim metal key blade inside that you can use. This option works best when you’ve prepared ahead. It may not work if your spare is not nearby, you haven’t made one in the first place, or your vehicle model doesn’t have an emergency key blade in the fob.
That being said, you shouldn’t pry open the doors with metal tools, hide the spare keys in obvious places, or force the key blade if it resists (the wrong blade can snap).
3) Use Roadside Assistance Service
If you have any insurance coverage or a credit card perk that covers roadside assistance services, then you should use those. If you don’t have any of them, then some apps provide emergency roadside services that you can install. Apps like iTOWu provide all kinds of roadside assistance services other than car lockout services, like tire fix/change, vehicle towing, fuel delivery, battery jump start, etc. The app connects you with the best professionals nearby. You should avoid taking help from unverified “pop-a-lock” strangers and don’t break a window unless there’s an immediate safety emergency.
4) Hire a professional automotive locksmith
If your keys are lost or damaged, you want to make a spare, or your key fob needs reprogramming, this is the option to choose. A certified automotive locksmith can unlock the car with model-specific, non-destructive tools and, if needed, cut and program a new key or fob on the spot. You can expect a quick proof-of-ownership check (ID + registration/VIN) and a clear quote. You should avoid anyone proposing to drill locks or pry frames on your car.
Rule of thumb:
- If roadside service providers can reach you quickly for a simple unlock, use option 3;
- If you need a new key/fob, have a complex or luxury model, or want faster, model-expert service, go straight to option four and call a vetted locksmith.
5) Last-resort DIY (older vehicles only)
Use this only on older cars with simple post locks or framed windows and only if you accept the risk of cosmetic or mechanical damage. Low-tech tricks like a shoelace loop (for old post locks), a gentle wedge with a long-reach tool to hit the unlock, or a magnetic/flexible pickup through a safe gap can work when keys or a metal key ring are reachable.
Modern cars have tight seals, side airbags, cables, sensors, and painted trims that DIY can easily harm. You can scratch paint, bend frames, tear weather seals, or damage wiring, and many fobs aren’t magnetic.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get keys out of your locked car helps you stay calm and safe in stressful situations. Start with simple options like a car’s companion app or backup options. Avoid dangerous mistakes like breaking windows or drilling locks. And if the car is an older model and you are feeling confident, then try the DIY method.
When in doubt, use a roadside assistance service for car lockouts or hire a professional locksmith. They provide fast, professional, and damage-free solutions. Being prepared, keeping a spare key, and knowing your options ensures you handle lockouts safely and get back on the road quickly.