Car Lockouts: What to Do When You're Locked Out of Your Vehicle

rankorbit821
Apr 29
2 min read

Getting locked out of your car is a frustrating and stressful experience, especially if you're in a hurry or far from home. Whether you left your keys inside, lost them, or the locks malfunctioned, knowing what to do can save you time and hassle. This guide covers the best steps to take during a car lockout, how to prevent future incidents, and when to call a professional for help.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

Panicking won’t help take a deep breath and check all doors to confirm they’re truly locked. Sometimes, one door might still be open, or a child lock could be engaged.

Quick Checks:

Try the trunk (some cars have interior trunk releases).
Check for spare keys (magnetic key boxes, wallet, or with a trusted friend).
Look for open windows (even a small gap can help).

2. DIY Methods to Regain Entry (If Safe)

If you’re in a secure location and have some basic tools, you might be able to unlock the car yourself.

A. Coat Hanger or Slim Jim (Older Cars)

Bend a wire coat hanger into a hook.
Slide it between the window and door frame to press the unlock button or pull the door handle.
Note: This may not work on modern cars with electronic locks.

B. Inflatable Wedge & Long Rod

Use an inflatable wedge (or a plastic wedge) to create a small gap in the door.
Insert a long rod or straightened hanger to press the unlock button.

C. Shoelace Trick (For Manual Locks)

Tie a slipknot in a shoelace and loop it around the lock.
Pull upward to unlock (only works on older cars with vertical locks).

⚠️ Warning: Avoid excessive force—you could damage the door or trigger the alarm.

3. When to Call a Professional Locksmith or Roadside Assistance

If DIY methods fail or you’re uncomfortable trying them, it’s best to call a professional.

Why Hire a Pro?

Fast Service: A locksmith can often unlock your car in minutes.
No Damage: Professionals use specialized tools to avoid scratches or broken locks.
24/7 Availability: Many services, like A-OK Towing, offer emergency lockout assistance.

What to Expect:

The locksmith will verify ownership (registration or ID).
They’ll use lock picks, wedges, or key code scanners.
If needed, they can make a new key on the spot.

4. Preventing Future Car Lockouts

Avoid repeat lockouts with these simple habits:

A. Spare Key Solutions

Keep a spare key in a magnetic box under the car.
Leave one with a trusted friend or family member.
Consider a keyless entry app if your car supports it.

B. Smart Habits

Always check for keys before closing the door.
Use a keychain tracker (Tile, AirTag) to locate lost keys.
If your car has keyless entry, ensure the battery isn’t dead.

5. What NOT to Do During a Lockout

Don’t break a window (expensive and dangerous).
Don’t use random tools (could damage the lock mechanism).
Don’t accept help from strangers (security risk).

Final Thoughts

Car lockouts happen to everyone at some point, but staying prepared can minimize stress. If you’re in Alpharetta and need quick, professional help, A-OK Towing provides reliable lockout assistance without damaging your vehicle.

Need immediate help? Keep our number saved for emergencies!