Car locking is one of the most annoying incidents that can occur to the best of us at any time of the day, from any place. Any time one is late for a meeting, is, for instance, left in a parking lot with no means of opening the car door, this feeling is rather daunting. But don’t worry! The following are some of the ways one can unlock the car without causing harm: Here are some practical steps and techniques that will help you get into your car if you have been locked out.
How Car Locking System WorksÂ
To increase the chances of getting the car unlocked, it is important that one knows the type of lock used in the car. Typically, automobiles have manual or electric locks.Â
Different Types of Car Locks
These are common in most vehicles, especially in the older model, and can only be unlocked and started using a physical key. Keyless features also embraced by new models include the keyless entry system, where key fobs or a smartphone application is used to open or lock the car. If you know what type of simlock you are facing, you will have an idea about what method of unlocking is going to be suitable for you.
Initial Steps to Take
Before you start looking for tools or calling a professional, there are a few simple steps you should take: Before you start looking for tools or calling a professional, there are a few simple steps you should take:
Check All Doors and Windows
It might take a lot of people their entire lifetime to discover that there are often simple answers to our questions. Feel all the handles of the car doors and the windows to see whether any are open or not and whether the windows are down or not. I doubt that one needs a doctorate to come up with such an idea, but … often enough, this elementary rule is overlooked when the panic happens.Â
Look for Spare Keys
It will take very little time to have a spare key in a wallet, purse, or at home in the event of locking yourself out. In the same manner, some keep a spare key in a magnetic box under the car or may even have a safe at their compound.
Using Household Items to Unlock Your Car
In case the above methods of checking doors and windows and searching for spare keys fail to solve the problem, there are some household items that can help you unlock your car.
Using a Coat Hanger
A coat hanger can be a lifesaver for older cars with manual locks. Straighten out the hanger and create a small hook at the end. Slide it between the window and the weather stripping to catch the lock mechanism. This method requires some patience and finesse, but it can be effective.
Unlocking with a Shoelace
To the readers’ disbelief, a simple shoelace can open a car with a post-style door lock. Take or make a slipknot and place it in the middle of the lace, fit it into the door c, rack it, and move it over the lock. After the knot is tied, bring the two ends of the lace in opposite directions in order to tighten the knot around the lock and lift the two ends in order to unlock it.
Automotive Tools and Kits for Unlocking
If home devices can be ineffectual, automotive devices are developed for the singular purpose of opening car locks.
Slim Jims: What are They and How to Apply Them
A Slim Jim is a thin strip of metal that can be inserted under the car’s window and the weather strip to unlock the door. As you will see, although using a Slim Jim is effective, it can take some skill and will most likely result in damage if not done correctly.
Inflatable Wedge Kits
Inflate wedges are other tools that are quite useful when it comes to opening car doors. They enable you to have a small space between the door and the framing so that you can use a stick or any tool that unlocks the doors from within.
Technology in Unlocking of Car DoorsÂ
Car security has gone a notch higher through technology, and so can the problem of being locked out of your car.
Unlocking via Smartphone Apps
Some of the advanced features that are found in most of the car models in today’s market include applications that enable the owner to lock or unlock their car from a distance. If your car is equipped with the keyless start feature, then it can be unlocked using an SMSC.
Remote Keyless Entry Systems
Most keyless entry systems operate using a keychain called a keyless entry fob. In some of the systems, the fob has a backup key that is hidden within to be used when the battery of the fob has run out.
Conclusion
In this topic, at least one person will get locked out of their car, which is an inconsequential occurrence when the appropriate attitude is taken. There are several options on how to get back into the car in case one of the mentioned techniques fails, including using house tools, calling a professional, or using the technology. The most effective way to rectify a car lockout situation is to avoid panicking and take a chance to analyze the possible options between which the best one should be selected.
FAQs
How Can I Prevent Locking My Keys in the Car?
Consider carrying a spare key, using a keyless entry system, or keeping a key safe on your property to avoid future lockouts.
Is It Legal to Unlock My Car?
Yes, it is generally legal to unlock your car, but ensure you have proof of ownership.
Can Unlocking My Car Damage It?
Some DIY methods can potentially damage your car’s paint, weather stripping, or locking mechanism. Consider professional help to avoid damage.
How Much Does a Locksmith Typically Charge?
The cost can vary, but locksmith services typically range from $50 to $150, depending on the complexity of the job and your location.
Are There Any Tools I Can Carry to Prevent Being Locked Out?
Consider carrying an inflatable wedge, a Slim Jim, or a spare key to prevent being locked out of your car.