How to Get Keys Out of a Locked Car with Windows Up?

Locked out of a car? It can seem like the end of the world when you’re locked out of your car with the windows up and no spare key. Whether you’re in a hurry or stuck in the middle of nowhere, knowing how to open your car without any damage can save you time and stress. In this guide, we will highlight how to get keys out of a locked car with windows up and how to handle emergencies.

What to Do When You’re Locked Out of Your Car?

There are a few tricks you can try to unlock your car door with keys inside, and when the windows are up. Here’s what’s happening in these cases: There are a couple of approaches:

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first thing to do when you find yourself locked out of your car is to relax. Panicking will only add more stress to the situation. Do a quick assessment of your environment, and you’ll figure out what to do in the situation.

Confirm All Doors and Windows Are Locked

Before you begin, make sure that any of the doors or windows are open. Sometimes, in the heat of emotion, we assume everything is in the worst state rather than exploring all possibilities. Attempt to open each of the car doors to make sure they are locked securely.

Check for Spare Keys or Remote Access

Do you have another key on you or a method to remotely access your car? Some people may rely on a family member who has a spare key, or the use of smartphone apps that can unlock the car from a distance.

Quick DIY Methods to Unlock Your Car

If you’ve looked and there are no open windows or doors, it’s time to use some DIY methods to unlock your car.

Step 1: Use a Clothes Hanger (For Older Car Models)

This method is more effective on older vehicles with manual locks. There’s an easy way to unlock it using a long, strong wire or a clothes hanger.

• Action: Straighten the coat hanger and form a hook at one end. Gently slide the hook between the door and frame.
• Result: Once you hook the lock, carefully pull and unlock the door.

Pro tip: This technique may take some time, as you won’t want to damage the car’s interior or door frame. However, if done correctly, it’s an effective DIY solution.

Step 2: Use a Lockout Tool (For Newer Car Models)

If you have a newer vehicle with electronic locks, a car lockout tool can be your best bet. There are specific tools, such as a “big easy” or “big reach” set, made for those fancy electronic lock cars.

• Action: Place the tool between the window and the door frame. These tools use non-invasive methods to unlock doors without any damage.
• Result: This method is safer on newer cars with power locks and is frequently used by roadside assistance drivers.

Toolkit: You can purchase these kits online or at auto parts stores.

Step 3: Roadside Assistance for Locked Keys in Car 

If you find yourself locked out of your car and can’t get the door open no matter how hard you try, you’ll need a roadside service to help you out. Several services, such as AAA or insurance, provide car door unlock services in emergencies.

• Action: Call your roadside assistance company and ask for help.
• Result: You’ll get a professional to your location. He will unlock your car without any damage.

Step 4: The Professional Locksmith Option

When all DIY options don’t work, the safest option for you is to call a professional locksmith. Locksmiths have the tools and skills to open cars without causing any damage to the car.

• Action: Contact an insured locksmith nearby.
• Result: A locksmith can open the door immediately and without damage; however, they may charge a fee for it.

Step 5: Use a Specialized Air Wedge for Car Lockout Solutions

An air wedge is a tool that can create a gap between the door frame and the door itself so that you can unlock the door.

• Action: Place the inflatable air wedge in the door frame and then close the car door. Inflate it to create a gap.
• Result: Unlock the car with a long reach tool once you’ve created enough space.

Professional Locksmith vs. Roadside Assistance

A professional locksmith is trained to unlock cars and has all the tools and knowledge to avoid any damage. Roadside assistance companies, meanwhile, provide a broader service that includes unlocking cars and a range of other potential roadside woes, such as changing a tire or delivering fuel.

 Cost and Response Times

The price of hiring a locksmith or roadside assistance can depend on location, time, and what type of service. 

• The average cost for roadside assistance to unlock a car tends to be between $50 and $100. 
• The cost for a locksmith can range from $60 to $150, depending on the complexity of the job.

Preventing Future Lockouts

Once you’ve managed to get the keys out of the locked car, try to be prepared to avoid the same problem in the future.

Key Fob Spare and Magnetic Key Holders

Consider getting a spare key fob, putting it in a secure, magnetic key holder on your car. This provides you with a backup if you lock the keys inside again.

• Action: Purchase a key holder that attaches to your car magnetically, or hide a spare key safely on the outside of the vehicle.
• Result: You’ll have access to your spare key in an emergency.

Smart Key Trackers and Apps

Key trackers like Tile and smart key apps can help you find your car key when you need it. By attaching a Bluetooth-enabled tracker to your key fob, you can easily locate it if lost or locked in the car.

• Action: Buy a smart key tracker and link it to your phone.
• Result: Never worry about losing your keys and getting locked out of your car again.

Conclusion:

Car lockouts are annoying, but when you know what to do and how to get keys out of a locked car with windows up, it can easily be fixed. Whether you’re enlisting a DIY method or calling a pro to help you out, understanding how to unlock a car with windows up is a great time and stress-saver. Always remember that if you aren’t sure, the best decision is to call a professional locksmith or get roadside assistance.

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