how to get keys out of a locked car

How to Get Keys Out of a Locked Car Without Damaging It

Have you ever found yourself in the frustrating situation of being locked out of your car? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. It happens to the best of us. But don’t panic! There are several ways to get your keys out of a locked car without damaging it. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the most effective methods, step-by-step.

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1. Use a Coat Hanger or Slim Jim

This is a classic method that has been used for decades. It requires a wire coat hanger or a dedicated slim jim tool. Here’s how to do it:

1. Straighten out the coat hanger. If using a slim jim, skip to the next step.
2. Create a small hook. Bend one end of the coat hanger into a small, curved hook.
3. Insert the hook into the door frame. Find a small gap between the door frame and the weatherstripping. Gently insert the hook into the gap.
4. Feel for the lock button. Use the hook to probe around until you feel the lock button.
5. Hook the button. Once you’ve found the button, gently hook it and pull it up. The door should unlock.

2. Use a Tennis Ball

This method requires a tennis ball and a pair of scissors. Here’s how it works:

1. Cut a small hole in the tennis ball. Use the scissors to make a small hole in the side of the ball.
2. Position the tennis ball over the lock. Place the ball over the keyhole so that the hole aligns with the lock.
3. Squeeze the tennis ball. Compress the ball forcefully. The air pressure should create suction and pull the lock button up.

3. Use a Wedge and Rod

This method involves using a thin wedge and a long, thin rod. Here’s how to do it:

1. Create a gap in the door frame. Use the wedge to create a small gap between the door frame and the weatherstripping.
2. Insert the rod. Insert a long, thin rod (such as a screwdriver or a metal hanger) into the gap.
3. Reach for the lock button. Use the rod to probe around and reach for the lock button.
4. Pull up the button. Once you’ve found the button, pull it up to unlock the door.

4. Use a Credit Card or Hotel Key

This method works on older cars with spring-loaded door locks. Here’s what to do:

1. Bend the card. Bend a credit card or hotel key at a 45-degree angle.
2. Insert the card. Insert the bent card into the door frame, between the window and the weatherstripping.
3. Slide the card. Slide the card down along the window until you feel the lock button.
4. Push the button. Press the lock button with the card to unlock the door.

5. Call a Locksmith

If all else fails, you can always call a locksmith. They have specialized tools and techniques to unlock your car without damaging it. However, this option can be more expensive than the other methods.

6. Preventative Measures to Avoid Getting Locked Out

To avoid the frustration of being locked out of your car, here are some preventative measures to follow:

• Keep a spare key in a safe place. Consider hiding it in your wallet, purse, or with a trusted friend.
• Use a keyless entry system. Many modern cars come equipped with keyless entry systems that allow you to unlock your car with a button or remote.
• Be aware of your surroundings. When you lock your car, make sure to check that your keys are in your pocket or bag.
• Don’t leave valuables in your car. This will deter thieves from breaking into your car and stealing your keys.

Comparison Table of Methods

Conclusion

Getting locked out of your car can be a frustrating experience, but it doesn’t have to be a major crisis. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can safely and effectively get your keys out of your locked car without damaging it. For more automotive tips and advice, be sure to check out our other articles.

FAQ about How to Get Keys Out of a Locked Car

1. What should I do first?

• P: Panic
• A: Assess the situation calmly. Check if any windows are slightly open or if you have a spare key somewhere.
• S: Stay safe and avoid damaging your car.

2. Can I use a coat hanger?

• P: Poke and prod
• A: Yes, but be gentle. Create a small hook at one end of a wire coat hanger and carefully insert it through the weather stripping of a door or window.
• S: Use a flashlight to help you see and avoid piercing your car’s interior.

3. Is there a way to use a tennis ball?

• P: Pinch and press
• A: Cut a small hole in a tennis ball and place it over the car’s keyhole. Press down firmly and quickly to create suction and hopefully release the lock.
• S: This method may not work on all types of locks.

4. Can I use a butter knife?

• P: Pry and poke
• A: Use a thin butter knife or putty knife to gently pry open the weather stripping of a window or door. Once there’s enough space, use a wire coat hanger or similar tool to unlock the door.
• S: Be careful not to damage your car’s paint or interior.

5. What about calling a locksmith?

• P: Pay
• A: If other methods fail, calling a locksmith is the most reliable option but can be expensive.
• S: Get quotes from multiple locksmiths before making a decision.

6. Is there a window slightly open?

• P: Peek and peer
• A: Use a thin object like a credit card or a plastic wedge to gently slide open a window slightly. Once there’s enough space, use a wire coat hanger or a straightened wire to reach the unlock button.
• S: Be patient and use caution to avoid breaking the window.

7. Can I use a screwdriver?

• P: Puncture and pry
• A: Avoid using a screwdriver unless necessary. If you must, use a thin one and insert it carefully into the weather stripping or pry open a small gap between the door frame and the window.
• S: Be extremely cautious to avoid damaging your car.

8. What if I have a spare key somewhere?

• P: Ponder and probe
• A: Check unusual places like your wallet, purse, glove compartment, or under the car’s seats. If you find a spare key, use it to unlock your car.
• S: Keep a spare key in a safe and accessible place in case of emergencies.

9. Is it possible to reach the lock through the trunk?

• P: Perplex and peer
• A: Some cars allow access to the trunk even when the doors are locked. If yours does, try to locate the keyhole, insert the key, and unlock the trunk. Once inside, you can access the car’s interior through the fold-down seats.
• S: Be aware that not all cars have this feature.

10. Can I smash a window?

• P: Pound and smash
• A: Resorting to smashing a window should be the last option as it is expensive and time-consuming to replace. However, if you are in an emergency situation and all other methods fail, you can use a hammer or a large rock to break a window.
• S: Be careful not to injure yourself or damage the car’s interior.