The Car Keys Are Locked in the Car – How to Open the Door?

Locking your keys inside your car can be a frustrating and stressful experience, especially if you are in a hurry or in an unfamiliar location. Fortunately, there are several ways to regain access to your vehicle, whether you prefer DIY methods or professional assistance. In this guide, we will explore various techniques to unlock your car door safely and efficiently.

Assessing the Situation

Before you attempt to unlock your car, take a moment to assess the situation. Consider the following:

• Do you have a spare key nearby? If you have a spare key at home or with a friend, retrieving it might be the easiest solution.
• Is the car running? If the engine is on, you may need immediate help to prevent fuel wastage or overheating.
• Are you in a safe location? If you are in a dangerous area, such as a busy highway or isolated parking lot, prioritize your safety and seek assistance as needed.
• What type of lock does your car have? Some methods work better for manual locks, while others are effective for electronic locking systems.

Method 1: Check for an Unlocked Door or Trunk

Before attempting any unlocking techniques, check if any of the doors or the trunk are unlocked. In some cases, even if the main doors are locked, the trunk might be accessible, allowing you to fold down the rear seats and enter the car.

Method 2: Use a Spare Key or Key Fob

If you have a spare key nearby, this is the simplest way to regain access. Many modern cars also have keyless entry systems. If your key fob is inside the car but the battery is dead, holding it close to the door handle while pressing the unlock button might work.

Method 3: Call for Roadside Assistance

Many insurance policies, car manufacturers, and membership programs like AAA offer roadside assistance for locked cars. If you have such coverage, calling for help might be the quickest and safest option.

Method 4: Use a Shoelace (For Cars with Manual Locks)

This trick works best on cars with vertical manual locks that pull up to unlock. Follow these steps:

1. Remove a shoelace from one of your shoes.
2. Tie a slipknot in the middle of the lace.
3. Carefully insert the shoelace through the top corner of the car door.
4. Maneuver the loop over the lock button.
5. Pull both ends of the lace to tighten the knot around the lock.
6. Gently pull up to unlock the door.

Method 5: Use a Slim Jim (For Manual Locks)

A slim jim is a long, flat piece of metal designed to unlock car doors by manipulating the lock mechanism inside the door. Here’s how to use one:

1. Slide the slim jim between the weather stripping and window.
2. Locate the lock mechanism (usually near the door handle).
3. Hook the slim jim onto the control arm and gently pull up.
4. The door should unlock if done correctly.

Warning: Using a slim jim incorrectly can damage your car’s wiring or locking system. If unsure, seek professional help.

Method 6: Use a Coat Hanger (For Older Cars with Manual Locks)

A wire coat hanger can be used similarly to a slim jim:

1. Straighten the hanger but leave a small hook at one end.
2. Insert it between the door and window frame.
3. Try to hook the lock mechanism and pull it up.
4. Be patient, as it may take a few tries.

Method 7: Use a Wedge and Rod (For Power Locks)

For cars with power locks, a wedge and rod can create enough space to press the unlock button inside:

1. Use a plastic wedge, inflatable wedge, or a doorstop to create a small gap between the door and the frame.
2. Insert a long, thin rod (such as a straightened coat hanger) through the gap.
3. Press the unlock button carefully.

Inflatable wedges are ideal because they reduce the risk of damaging your car’s door or paint.

Method 8: Call a Locksmith

If DIY methods fail, calling a professional locksmith is the safest way to unlock your car without damage. A locksmith has the proper tools and expertise to open locked cars quickly.

Method 9: Use Your Smartphone (For Certain Car Models)

Some modern cars allow remote unlocking through a smartphone app. Check if your car manufacturer provides an app with remote access features. If you have an active subscription, you may be able to unlock your car with a few taps on your phone.

Method 10: Break a Window (As a Last Resort)

If there is an emergency, such as a child or pet trapped inside the car, breaking a window may be necessary. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Choose the smallest and cheapest window to replace (usually a rear side window).
2. Use a glass-breaking tool or a rock.
3. Aim for the edge of the window instead of the center.
4. Protect yourself from shattered glass.

Only break a window if there is an immediate danger.

Preventing Future Lockouts

To avoid locking your keys inside your car again, consider these preventive measures:

• Keep a spare key in a safe place (at home, with a trusted friend, or in a magnetic key box under the car).
• Use a keychain with a tracker (such as Apple AirTag or Tile) to locate lost keys.
• Enable smartphone unlocking features if your car supports it.
• Develop a habit of checking for keys before locking the door.
• Invest in a keyless entry system if your car does not already have one.

Conclusion

Locking your keys in the car is a common mistake, but there are many ways to regain access. From using shoelaces and coat hangers to calling a locksmith, the method you choose will depend on your car’s locking system and the tools available. If you frequently find yourself in this situation, investing in spare keys and digital unlocking options can save you time and stress in the future. By following these steps, you can safely unlock your car without causing damage and avoid the hassle of being locked out again.