There is nothing more frustrating than getting locked out of your car and staring at your keys through the window. What makes it even worse is if you left your engine running. Luckily, there are ways to get inside most locked cars, so you can retrieve your keys without having to deal with a car dealership or a locksmith.  Below are some tips on how to get keys out of locked car.

Using a coat hanger

You are extremely lucky if you have an older car with the lock that presses up and down. Straighten out a wire coat hanger, curl the end into a little hook and slide it between the side or vent window and rubber molding. Use the hook to grab the button and pop it up.

Using  a jimmy

Go to a gas station if you are fortunate enough to be parked near one. Many of them have a jimmy you can use to open your door. It slips between the door and window and works on the locking system in the door, opening it easily.

Using roadside assistance

Call your roadside assistance provider. Your plan will probably have a service policy for opening locked cars.

Breaking a vent

Try breaking the small vent window if you absolutely must get into your car. It is relatively cheap to replace.

Using a code

If you have a newer car, check to see if your keys have been coded. Some codes are engraved on the key; others are hidden inside a plastic piece on the key. Have a key made at no charge by calling the code in to a locksmith. The cost of the locksmith’s visit will still be cheaper than having locksmith make a wax model and then craft a new key.

If none of these options work, use TalkLocal to immediately get in contact with local locksmiths who can help you.

This entry was updated on Monday, June 1st, 2015 at 12:00 pm. This entry was originally posted on Friday, July 13th, 2012 at 6:00 am and is filed under Locksmiths. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.