Tips for Locking My Keys in My Car
Locking your keys in the car can be frustrating. Before anything, relax and take a deep breath. Sometimes you’re not locked out as you think. Check the doors and trunk as one or more other doors may be open, allowing you into the car. Here are a few tips for locking my keys in my car.
Tips for Locking My Keys in My Car
This post aims to help you get back into your car when you’ve accidentally locked the keys inside. Some of the processes mentioned will take a bit of time, but it helps to try and keep calm.
A Small Diameter Rope or String
Look for a string that’s small enough to fit between the car frame and the door. A shoelace, for example, should work well. Bear in mind that this method will only work if your car has a post lock. Post locks are upright locks that are opened and closed by being pulled up and pushed down respectively. Once you have a string, tie a slipknot, trying to make it as close to the center of the string as possible.
Slide the string between the door and the frame, keeping one side of the string perpendicular and the other end parallel to the roof of the car. Slide the string forward and catch the loop around the lock. Finally, pull the loop closed firmly and use it to open the lock by pulling upwards.
Alternatively, you can use a coat hanger or other thin piece of strong bendable material to manipulate the locking mechanism.
Buy Materials
Big box stores, auto body stores and home improvement stores are your best bet when looking for items that can help you to gain access into your vehicle and type of locking mechanism.
Wedge
You’re likely to find rubber or air wedges at an auto body store. They’re preferred for auto lockouts. Alternatively, try to find a doorstop or a screwdriver to wedge the door. A hammer might also come in handy when trying to get the wedge deeper into the gap. However, a wedge alone will not work so you’ll also need a probe tool.
Probe
Try to find something that’s thin, bendable and strong. However, it doesn’t have to bend if it’s slender, long, strong and in the correct shape.
Plastic Strap
This is another method that only works with post locks. Fit the strap between the door and the frame and try to loop it around the post and pull it up toward you. Consider folding sandpaper in the crease to prevent the strap from slipping off.
Picking or using a Slim Jim
Unless you have the right tools and experience, picking or using a Slim Jim to try and open your car should be a last resort. The effectiveness of these methods will depend on the make and model of your car and doing them wrong may damage your vehicle. Trying these will also help to prevent you having to change your entire lock.
Bottom Line
The tips for locking my keys in my car should make it easier to gain access to your vehicle when the keys are locked inside. Be sure to invest in duplicates so you have a spare key readily available. If you’re unable to unlock the car on your own, seek the services of a professional locksmith. Locksmiths are well trained to open various types of doors with little to no damage.
