It happens to the best of us. You shut the door, hear the dreaded click, and suddenly realize your keys are still inside. In that moment, a car lockout can feel like a complete disaster. While a lockout is stressful, it doesn’t have to ruin your entire day. There are ways you can get back inside without causing any damage to your car.
In the following sections, we’ll share the expert tips for handling car lockouts and the practical ways to prevent them from happening again.
5 Tips on what to do during a car lockout
When you find yourself locked out of your car, the priority is always to regain access safely without causing any damage.
Following expert tips, focus on smart, low-risk options.
Tip 1: Check All Passenger Doors
In stressful moments, many drivers only check the driver’s door. You should walk around the entire vehicle and check every passenger door and the hatch. One unlocked door can solve the problem instantly.
Tip 2: Try the Trunk Entry method
Before calling a car lockout service, check the trunk of your vehicle. Many SUVs and hatchbacks use a different locking mechanism for the rear. If the trunk opens, you can fold down the back seats and reach the main cabin to retrieve your keys.
Tip 3: Use your car’s app
Many vehicle brands now come with a companion app where you can register your car. For instance, Tesla has the Tesla app, Ford has the FordPass, Chevrolet has the myChevrolet, and others. If you’ve uploaded your details to your vehicle’s app, then it usually allows you to unlock the car remotely. They might first verify whether you are the owner or not.
Tip 4: Be Aware of a Slightly Open Window
If a window is cracked open even slightly, avoid forcing your hand inside. In some cases, a long, thin object can be used only to press the interior unlock button. That said, you should only try this with extreme care, as damaging window tint or weather stripping can be costly. If you are not confident, then you shouldn’t try it. Instead, you should call for help from a professional. The iTOWu roadside assistance app connects you with the nearest lockout service professional and dispatches them to your location quickly.
Tip 5: Ask the Dealership for a Key Code
If you’re near a dealership for your vehicle’s brand, provide your VIN and proof of ownership. In some cases, they can cut a basic mechanical key that allows you to unlock the door and retrieve your key fob.
How to Prevent Future Lockouts?
A little preparation can go a long way toward preventing car lockouts and avoiding the need for a car opening service.
Follow these simple habits to stay one step ahead:
- Spare key: For older vehicles, you could hide the backup key in a magnetic key box hidden under the car. But this won’t work for the newer smart keys. So, it’s better to leave a spare key with a family member, a trusted friend, or a neighbor.
- Digital Backup: Make sure you have registered on your car’s mobile app as mentioned in tip 3 above. If you’ve done that, you can use your phone to act as a backup for unlocking your vehicle.
- The “Key Fob” Habit: Avoid locking your car using the interior door button. Instead, step out, close the door, and lock it using the key fob. This habit ensures the keys are in your hand when the doors lock.
- Routine Battery Checks: Many lockouts happen because a key fob battery dies unexpectedly. If you notice a delayed response or need multiple button presses, replace the battery right away.
Last Note
A vehicle lockout is something most drivers experience at least once, but it doesn’t have to turn into a stressful situation. By checking your digital options and knowing who to call when keys are locked in a car, the problem can often be solved quickly.
If you ever find yourself stuck and wondering how to get your keys out of a locked car safely, it’s best not to risk a DIY mistake. Also, instead of calling multiple shops, use the iTOWu app. It connects you with local professionals who use damage-free tools to handle vehicle lockouts efficiently and affordably.