What to Do When You're Locked Out of Your Car

Getting locked out of your car is one of the most frustrating experiences, whether it happens in a parking lot, at work, or worse - in an unfamiliar area late at night. The good news is that with the right approach, you can resolve this situation safely and efficiently.

In this guide, we'll walk you through exactly what to do when you're locked out, what methods to avoid, and how to prevent future lockouts.

Step-by-Step: What to Do When Locked Out

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

   Take a deep breath. Panicking leads to poor decisions. Check if all doors are actually locked - sometimes a rear door or trunk is unlocked.

2. Check for Spare Keys

   Do you have a spare at home? Is there someone nearby who can bring it? Many people have magnetic key boxes attached to their vehicle - check wheel wells if you have one.

3. Check Your Roadside Assistance

   Many insurance policies, credit cards, and car manufacturers include roadside assistance that covers lockout service at no additional cost.

4. Call a Licensed Locksmith

   A professional automotive locksmith can unlock your car without damage, usually within 15-30 minutes. Make sure to verify they're licensed before they arrive.

Methods to Avoid

When locked out, you might be tempted to try DIY methods you've seen online. Here's why you should avoid them:

Slim Jims and Coat Hangers

Modern vehicles have complex electronic systems, side airbags, and sophisticated door mechanisms. Using improvised tools can:

• Damage weather stripping and door seals
• Trigger airbag sensors (expensive to reset)
• Damage window mechanisms
• Scratch interior door panels

Breaking a Window

Breaking a window should only be considered in genuine emergencies. The cost to replace a car window ($200-$500+) far exceeds the cost of a locksmith ($50-$150).

How to Choose a Reliable Locksmith

Not all locksmiths are created equal. Here's how to identify a legitimate professional:

• Ask for a price estimate upfront - Reputable locksmiths give estimates before arriving
• Request identification - Licensed locksmiths carry ID and credentials
• Look for a marked vehicle - Professional locksmiths usually have company-branded vehicles
• Check reviews - Look for Google reviews, BBB rating, and industry affiliations
• Get a written invoice - Always request documentation of the service

Preventing Future Lockouts

Once you've resolved the immediate problem, take steps to prevent it from happening again:

1. Get a Spare Key Made

Having a spare key is the most reliable prevention method. Keep one:

• With a trusted family member or friend
• In your wallet (slim emergency keys are available)
• In a secure magnetic box on your vehicle
• At your workplace in a secure location

2. Use Technology

Many modern solutions can prevent lockouts:

• Smartphone apps - Some cars allow remote unlocking via app
• Bluetooth trackers - Attach to your keys to locate them
• Smart key holders - Wall-mounted holders that remind you to take keys

3. Build Good Habits

Simple habits that prevent lockouts:

• Always check for keys before exiting the vehicle
• Keep keys in the same pocket or purse location
• Never leave keys in the ignition, even for quick stops
• Turn off auto-lock features if you frequently leave keys inside

What About Keyless Entry Lockouts?

Modern vehicles with push-button start and proximity keys present unique lockout scenarios:

• Dead key fob battery - Most cars have a hidden physical key in the fob and a hidden keyhole on the door
• Fob locked inside - The car may not lock if it detects the fob inside (check your settings)
• Lost fob - Replacement requires programming by a locksmith or dealer

Final Thoughts

Getting locked out of your car is stressful, but it doesn't have to be a disaster. Stay calm, evaluate your options, and call a professional if needed. Most importantly, take steps afterward to prevent it from happening again.

Remember: a few minutes of preparation today can save you hours of frustration tomorrow.