How to Get Locked Out of My Car
You may be locked out of your vehicle for a variety reasons. You may be locked out of your car due to many reasons, from simple forgetfulness to malfunctioning locks. You can limit the possibility of this occurring by keeping an extra car key in the hands of someone close to you, having a roadside service plan, and using your smartphone when you have a newer vehicle.
Check the door locks
Being locked out of your vehicle is an unpleasant experience. It can ruin your entire day or put you in danger, when it happens in a dangerous location. There are several ways to avoid this situation by taking proactive measures. This includes having a spare key, being aware of your keys at any moment, and setting up an alarm.
One of the first things you need to do is to check your door locks to determine whether they're working correctly. This can be done using a Slim Jim tool, which is available at most hardware stores. Be careful not to damage your car using this tool, and make sure you know how to use it correctly.
A wire coat hanger is another option. Untwist the hanger and shape it into a hook shape and then move it around the lock button and pull it up to see if it is able to unlock your vehicle. This method is best suited for post locks, so if you have post locks, give it a try.
If none of these strategies work, you might require a locksmith or towing service. These professionals can help you access your vehicle without damaging it. They'll also have tools needed to unlock your car and you should have their number in your possession.
Some automakers like GM provide services such as OnStar which can help in a lockout situation. Other options include contacting a service provider like Hurst Towing, which has experts trained to handle such situations.
Another thing to keep in mind is that if your locks are constantly sticking or difficult to open it could be a sign of poor quality hardware. It is essential to select hardware that has been rated by the BHMA to ensure it's built to last. Investing in better quality hardware can help you avoid being locked out of your car in the future. Try applying lubrication to the locks to see if this helps.
Call for Help
Many people find themselves in the midst of a crisis when they realize they've locked their keys inside of their car. There are several simple solutions to get out of this situation. First and foremost, remember to be calm. A panicked reaction will only cause the situation to get worse.
A quick call to a local company for towing could be the most efficient solution. They usually specialize in roadside assistance and have someone nearby who can help you. You can also get a tow-truck if you need one.
If you don't have a towing company nearby and you are in need of a towing service, you can contact the local police. Previously, officers would be in a position to unlock vehicles using a slim jim, but these days they're unlikely to have the equipment to accomplish this.
A friend or relative living in the area is another good idea. They may be able to come by and help you open the door of your car without damaging the vehicle or incurring any cost. This is a great time to remind yourself that keeping extra keys available is the best way to prevent accidental lockouts.
It's a good idea to keep spare keys in a secure place and leave them with someone you trust who can quickly retrieve them in the event that you lose your car keys. Modern vehicles might have security features which allow you to remotely access your vehicle via the touchscreen or mobile app. You should look over the inventory available at Longo Toyota to see if your vehicle of choice has these capabilities.
You can also contact the dealership if you have a roadside assistance or auto warranty plan. They'll be capable of unlocking your vehicle for you at no cost. Based on your warranty or coverage, they may be able to unlock your vehicle for free. If they cannot offer assistance, they can suggest someone who could. It is also worth contacting non-profit organizations and community support services because they can provide assistance in these circumstances at a minimal cost or even for free.
Check the Sunroof
The sunroof has drain pipes that channel water or condensation away from the cabin to the ground outside the vehicle. If the drain tubes get blocked, it can cause the sunroof to fill with water, which will leak into the cabin and damage the headliner. It is crucial to check the sunroof drainage system regularly.
It is easiest to pour a tiny amount of water into each drain hole which can be seen through the trough surrounding the opening. To remove any debris make sure you carefully poke a wire or similar tool into each tube. You can also use a blower to flush each of the tubes and get rid of any water or condensation.
It is also recommended to clean the slides and tracks of your sunroof frequently. You can make use of a mild detergent and a soft cloth to rid them of any dirt, dust or other residue that have accumulated. It is a good idea to lubricate slides and tracks using a silicon-based grease. This will allow them to move more smoothly.
It is also important to check regularly the seal on your sunroof, which can deteriorate over time. If the seal cracks or damaged, it could let water and debris get into the sunroof, which can cause problems in the future.
If you notice any noises of popping or scraping coming from the sunroof of your vehicle, it is a sign that something is wrong with the motor. This needs attention from a professional.
Charles from HomeTown Auto Repair & Tire recently came across a 2012 Toyota RAV4 with a sunroof that was not functioning properly. locked keys in car service discovered that the sunroof was experiencing a leak and was flooding the passenger compartment. This was caused by an obstruction to the sunroof drainage channel that was disconnected from the track channel. If the sunroof isn't working properly, first try cleaning and lubricating tracks and slides. If this doesn't solve the issue then you should seek the advice of an expert technician who can provide a more thorough analysis and repair.
Check the Windows
There are a variety of things to avoid locking your keys inside your car. One of the best options is to keep a spare key somewhere you or someone else who knows where you are can easily access. A lot of newer cars come with safety features like keyless entry or automated locks. You should also have a cell phone in case you need to call for assistance in the event that you lose your keys inside your car.
You can also ask a family member or friend to lend you the tools needed to access your vehicle. This could be a slim jim or another tool like inflatable wedges, bobby pins or even your own doorknob or shoelace. These supplies can be used to open the door in seconds, without the time spent waiting for the fire or police department.
If your windows don't work correctly it could be because the door-lock switch was reprogrammed. If the window isn't rolling down or up when you press the switch, it's usually because of the lack of lubrication. This is easily fixed.
If the switch does not work, try pressing the button and then slamming your door a few more times. If the switch doesn't work you can make use of your fist to slam a window panel or doorframe. Be cautious not to scratch your vehicle.
If none of these suggestions work, you can contact for assistance from a roadside service to assist you in getting into your vehicle. The majority of roadside assistance services offer a limited amount of lockout assistance for free per year, and should be able to offer some pointers about how to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. You can also call an emergency locksmith or towing service. These professionals will use their knowledge and skills to gain entry into your vehicle, but you'll be charged for the cost.