Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces
Many vehicles are now equipped with advanced security features. Older models usually come with post locks that are opened using simple techniques.
Some car manufacturers offer mobile apps that allow you to unlock your vehicle. Contact your automaker to see if they have this service for you.
1. Shoelaces
If you know how to make use of them, shoelaces can be a useful device when you're locked out of your vehicle. If your vehicle has a locking tab that slides up and down vertically, usually near the window, you can open it with a pair shoelaces.
Then tie a slip knot in the middle of two shoelaces. Bring both ends together and form an elongated loop 3/4 of the way along the shoelaces. Then, slide the knot into the crack between the car's frame and the door. Then, maneuver the shoelace so that it connects to the lock mechanism. It may take a time and trial but when the shoelace has been secured to the lock mechanism, simply pull it up on both ends to unlock your vehicle.
When using this method the most important thing to keep in mind is to not scratch or damage your vehicle. You can save money by employing this method instead of calling a locksmith or roadside assistance.
This method is a great alternative to more abrasive methods such hanging a hanger which can scratch your vehicle. However, it does not always work, particularly on models that are more advanced. If the locking system of your vehicle doesn't respond, you may require a screwdriver or a long wooden bar to pry it open.
2. Coat Hanger
Being locked out of your vehicle is one of the most frustrating events that can happen in the present. Many people have seen their father or uncle use coat hangers to open the door of their car when they were younger, but this method can be a little risky and may not work with all cars. The use of a hanger to open your car can damage the door frame and could be prohibited in certain states.
A simple wire coat hanger can be used to unlock a car by slipping it through the gap between your door and frame. Slide the hanger into the gap, and then bend it into a small "V" shape to ensure that it gets a good grip on the post of the lock. Then, pull upwards on the hanger to release the bar or pin that controls the door lock. You may have to move the hook several times to catch something that can move the lock. But, it shouldn't take much effort to lift the bar.
If you're unable to get the coat hanger hook to let go of the control arm, you can try placing it between the window and the weather stripping. It may be necessary to poke around using the hook of the hanger to find this area, but once you have located it, you can jiggle and wiggle the hanger until you hear your door unlock. This method can be risky however, it could be a great way to gain access to your vehicle without the need for professional assistance or keys. If this doesn't work, you should contact an emergency roadside service or locksmith to seek assistance.
3. Wooden Wedge
You can lose your keys quickly if you erroneously or are reckless. If you don't have the resources to contact AAA roadside assistance or locksmith services, you'll require an emergency solution to unlock your car.
You can use any tool that can open an opening between your frame and door. For example you could use a screwdriver or a tennis-ball, or a coat hanger. You may have to squirt air into the gap to get it wide enough for your tool to fit through and reach the lock. Be careful not to damage the car.
When keys locked in vehicle lock their keys in their car, a lot of people grab a pair of pliers or a different tool. However, it's better to select a tool that doesn't scratch paint or aluminum trim. Inflatable wedges are the best choice for this job, and come in a range of sizes that fit all doors.
A long strip of plastic folded in half, similar to bags for grocery shopping, is another alternative. Place the strip inside the door that has been opened and, when it is inside the lock then wrap it around the knob and pull it upwards. This method is a little messy but it's a lot quicker than a coat hanger or a screwdriver, which is difficult to control.
If you're a more recent model car owner, it's likely that the lock mechanism isn't located in the traditional handle that is located on the outside of the vehicle but instead is located at the top of the window, near the weather stripping. To unlock a car with this style of lock, you'll need bend the tip of the wire hanger into a hook and slide it into the space between the window and the door (or the weather stripping) until you reach the lever or locking switch.
4. Air Wedge
Air wedges, such as this one from HPC are a popular tool among locksmiths and repo professionals to create working room around the car window frame to facilitate entry of tools. They're also an excellent method of avoiding damage to the vehicle when you can't get into it using the key.
The wedge of the air pump is placed between the weather stripping and the door to provide the right pressure. Then, a hand pump is used to fill the bag until it separates the door of the vehicle from the window of the vehicle and opens enough to accommodate a car unlocking tool. This allows you to unlock a door without using a key, by breaking the lock mechanism manual.
A good air wedge will have a stiffener to prevent it from collapsing when pumped up and a release valve to avoid over-inflation. It should also come with a heavy-duty, non-marring vinyl bag designed for dozens of applications. They are most effective when coupled with a picker, or a long reach car door unlocking tool which can be inserted into the wedge to move the lock.
It's important to note that a person shouldn't attempt this method of opening their own car door. This could cause damage to the vehicle and need costly repairs at an auto body shop. Furthermore this isn't an ideal method of getting into your vehicle in the event that you've locked your keys inside.
It is suggested that people who are stranded in their car call a professional roadside assistance service to seek assistance. These services will send a technician skilled and knowledgeable with the right tools to open your car door without damaging it. These experts can help with battery replacement and towing among other things.
5. Rod
A rod is a piece of steel, usually cylindrical or tapered, that is used to support another. In the car, it can be used to make a gap that allows you to reach your keys and unlock the door. This method isn't easy to master however it's worth a try. If you're lucky, it will work.
If you're uncomfortable opening your car on your own You can ask a friend to do it for you. You can also employ an auto locksmith. You can locate locksmiths near you by through the phone book or online. You can also get an AAA membership that provides roadside assistance. The service will dispatch someone to your home or office within a short time and allow them unlock your car without any hassles.
A lot of newer cars have security features to prevent people from breaking in without keys. Older models, however, are more difficult to break into. You can open these vehicles with a coat hanger or a rod. To do this, cut off the coat hanger from its hook and bend its straight side to form a hook. Slip the hook behind the weather strip and into the door slit to create an opening. Then, insert the rod and move it until it is depressed or move the door lock switch.
Certain automakers have smartphones with apps that can help you unlock your car when you're locked out. BMW and Hyundai for instance have lockout apps that allow you to unlock your car using the smartphone screen. Other automakers, such as General Motors, have an OnStar program that can help you unlock your car if it's locked out. You'll need an iPhone 11 or newer or Apple Watch Series 5 with the most recent version watchOS, and be within Bluetooth range.