Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces
Many cars now come with more secure features. Older models still often include post locks that are opened using simple methods.
Certain car manufacturers also have mobile apps that let you unlock your car. You can check with your automaker if this service is available to you.
1. Shoelaces
If you know how to use them, shoelaces can be a fantastic option when you are locked out of your car. If you own a car that have a locking tab mechanism that moves vertically upwards and downwards typically near the window, there is a simple trick that you can use to unlock your car with nothing more than a pair of shoelaces.
Then, tie a slip knot in the middle of two shoelaces. Bring both ends together to form a loop that runs 3/4 of the way across the shoelaces. Then, slide the knot into the crack that exists between the frame of your car and the door. Then, move the shoelace to hook around the lock mechanism. It may take a amount of trial and error, but once the shoelace is hooked, simply pull up on both ends to unlock your car.
The most important thing to remember when using this method is to work slowly and be cautious not to scratch or damage your car during the process. You can save money by employing this method instead of calling a locksmith or roadside assistance.
This method is an excellent alternative to more abrasive techniques such as hanging from a hook, which can scratch your vehicle. However, it does not always work, particularly on models that are more advanced. In the event that your vehicle's locking mechanism doesn't respond to this method, a long wooden rod or a screwdriver may be needed to pry the lock open.
2. Coat Hanger
Being locked out of your car is one of the most frustrating events that can happen in modern times. Many people have seen their parents or uncles use coat hangers to open a car door when they were kids but this could be risky and might not work on all cars. Utilizing a hanger for opening your car can damage the door's frame, and is illegal in certain states.
You can unlock your car with a simple coathanger made of wire by sliding it between the door and door frame. Slide the hanger down into this gap and bend it into the shape of a small "V" shape so that it can get a solid grip on the lock post. Then, pull up on the hanger until you can release the bar or pin that controls the door lock. You may need to move the hook around several times before you spot something that causes the lock to move however it shouldn't require a lot of effort to raise the bar.
If you're unable to get the coat hanger hook to let go of the control arm, you could try placing it between the window and the weather stripping. You may have to look around with the hook end of the coat hanger to find this area and once you've located it, you are able to jiggle and wiggle the hanger until you hear your door unlock. This method can be risky however it can be a great method to gain entry into your vehicle without the need for professional assistance or keys. If this does not work, you can call a roadside service or locksmith for assistance.
3. Wooden Wedge
You can lose your keys quickly if you erroneously or are reckless. And if you don't have the resources to contact AAA roadside assistance or locksmith services, you'll require something quick to open your car.
You can make use of anything that can open up the gap between your door and frame. For instance you could make use of a screwdriver, a tennis-ball, or a coat hanger. You may have to squirt air into the gap to make it wide enough to allow your tool to fit through and reach the lock. Be careful not to damage the car.
Many people use pliers or other tools whenever they lock their keys in their vehicles, but it's best to use tools that won't scratch or scuff the aluminum trim or paint. Inflatable wedges are ideal for this purpose, and come in a variety of sizes that fit all doors.
A long strip of plastic, folded in half like the grocery bag is a different alternative. Place the strip inside the door that has been pried open, and, when it is close to the lock, loop it around the lock knob and pull upward. This method can be a bit messy but it's a lot more efficient than the coat hanger or screwdriver that can be difficult to control.
If you have a more modern car the lock mechanism might not be located in the traditional handle on the outside, but at the top of your window, right next to the weather seal. To unlock a car with this type of lock you will need to bend the wire hanger tip into hook. Place it in the gap between the door and window (or weather stripping), until it reaches the lever or switch that locks.
4. Air Wedge
Locksmiths and repo professionals use air wedges such as this one from HPC to make more room around the car window frame to allow them to enter tools easily. They're also an excellent way to avoid damage to the vehicle when you can't get into it using keys.
G28CarKeys of the air pump is placed between the weather stripping and the door to apply the proper pressure. A hand pump that is manual is then used to fill bags that separate the vehicle's door from its window, forming an opening large enough to fit an auto unlocking tool. This makes it simple to break the lock mechanism manual and unlock a car's door without the need for a key.
A high-quality air wedge will have a stiffener to prevent the wedge from collapsing, and a release vent to prevent over-inflation. It should also come with a heavy-duty, non-marring vinyl bag that is designed for a variety of uses. These wedges work best when paired with a picker or long reach tool for unlocking doors in cars that can be inserted into the wedge to help to manipulate the lock.
It's important to note that one shouldn't try this method of opening their own car door. It could damage the car which could require costly repairs at the body shop. This is not a secure method to open your car when you have locked your keys inside.
It is suggested that those who are stranded in their car contact an experienced roadside assistance service to get help. They typically provide a qualified, experienced technician with the right tools to open a vehicle's door without damaging the vehicle. These experts can assist with battery replacement and towing, among other things.
5. Rod
A rod is a thin, long metal piece that is typically circular or tapered. It is a support for another object. In the car, it could be used to make a gap through which you can access your keys and unlock the door. This technique can be difficult to master however it's worth a shot. If you're lucky, it'll work.
If you're uncomfortable opening your own car, you could ask a friend to help you. You can also employ locksmith. You can find a locksmith near you using the phone book or online. You can also get an AAA membership that includes roadside assistance. This service will send someone to your location quickly, and they can unlock your vehicle with no hassle.
A lot of newer cars come with security features that prevent people from getting into them without keys. Older models are more difficult to get into. It is possible to unlock these vehicles using a coathanger or a rod. To do this, you need to cut the coathanger from the hook and bend the straight end to form a hook. To create a gap between the hook and the weather strip into the slit in the door. Inject the rod, and then move it to press the door lock switch, or slide it.
Some automakers also provide smartphone apps that can aid you when you're locked out of your vehicle. For example, BMW and Hyundai offer the lockout app that lets you to unlock your car with the smartphone screen. OnStar is a service offered by other automakers like General Motors that can assist you if your vehicle is locked out. To use these apps, you'll need an iPhone 11 or later or Apple Watch Series 5 or later with the latest version of watchOS and be within Bluetooth range of your car compatible with Bluetooth.