A car offers its owner the ability to get to wherever they need to be. Whether it is to work, the store, or other outings, there is nothing more satisfying than jumping in the car and going. However, when a person attempts to leave and realizes they cannot enter their vehicle, they instantly realize the freedom they took for granted.

It can be a frustrating or even frightening experience for anyone to be locked out of their vehicle. There are many scenarios that can cause this situation. This list of the four most common scenarios helps identify the problems and offers solutions for these problems.

Locking the Keys Inside the Car

There is nothing more frustrating to get out of the car, shut and lock the door, and then realize that the keys are still inside. There is often that immediate dread that strikes upon realizing you are locked out of your car. This problem often comes with a feeling of frustration and embarrassment.

This is actually a very common problem. All though that does not lessen the feelings of frustration, it is important to know that hope is not lost. The first thing to do is to check all the doors. There is always a possibility that one door was left open or even a window was left down. This will make entering the car easier.

Fortunately, there are some DIY options that could help get that door open. An inflatable wedge can push a door open just enough to get something in the door to open the lock. Even a spatula, shoelace, or coat hanger can be used to reach the lock and get the door open. However, it is important to use care with these options as they could cause damage to the vehicle.

Lost Keys

Locking the keys in the vehicle only requires accessing the vehicle to get back to driving. However, losing the keys altogether can be a far more difficult situation. Even if the doors could be opened, the car is still useless without the keys.

The only immediate option is to attempt to search again for those missing keys. Take a little time to think about the last time they were used and then try to remember where they were placed next. If this search proves unsuccessful, it may be necessary to contact the dealership to have another set made for the vehicle. If in a hurry to get somewhere, calling for a rideshare service may be the only option.

There is a way to prevent this issue from happening. A spare key can be a lifesaver when the keys have been lost. Keeping a spare in the house or even with a trusted friend can be a great way to get back on the road. However, it is not recommended to keep a spare key in or on the vehicle as it could be stolen or even locked inside the car.

Broken Key 

Keys are not always made of quality materials. Things can happen that can bend the key or damage it. Even just using too much force when unlocking the car has the potential to snap a key off in the door lock. When this happens, it can seem impossible to get in the car, and even if the entry was gained, there is no starting the car without the key.

This is another situation where a spare key could be a great benefit. As long as the key did not break off in the lock, a spare key can allow a person to gain entry and drive the vehicle. However, if the key breaks in the lock, the other piece may need to be removed first.

One technique for removing a broken key is to use a screwdriver to turn the lock back to the proper position. Then, take a pair of needle-nose pliers to grab and remove the key piece. Once the key is out, a spare key can be used to open the door.

Unfortunately, if there is no spare key, it may be necessary to contact the dealership to have another key made for the vehicle. These keys can be quite costly, especially if in a hurry. However, this could be the best time to get that spare key to prevent further issues.

Broken or Frozen Lock

Another problem faced by many car owners is encountering a broken or frozen lock. This is probably the most frustrating of all because the keys may be in hand, but entry to the vehicle is still impossible. Checking the other doors to see if the lock works is an option for some. Unfortunately, many vehicles today only have mechanical locks on the driver’s side door.

During the winter, the cold weather can freeze locks. This can make it impossible to open a car door. An aerosol de-icer or even some WD-40 can be sprayed into the mechanism to free up the lock. However, if the lock is broken, it may take a little more work to get the door open.  

Sometimes, the lock is simply jammed due to dirt or rust in the mechanism. Applying a lubricant, such as WD-40, can help to clear out the debris. Spraying a bit of lubricant in and allowing a few minutes should be enough to get the key working again. Reapplying the lubricant with a screwdriver to keep the keyhole open may also be necessary to ensure enough gets inside.

If the lock is completely broken or does not seem to budge with multiple lubricant applications, there may be more of a problem going on. This may require professional repair. Contacting the dealership, a mechanic, or even a locksmith can be a good way to open the car door.

There is one professional that can help with any of these problems. A locksmith is experienced with everything concerning keys and locks of any kind. Whether keys are locked or lost, a locksmith can help. If the key or lock has broken, a locksmith can provide repairs. They have the necessary locksmith tools to open different locks with minimal damage to vehicles or properties. Most professional locksmiths are licensed and highly trained to handle all sorts of lock emergencies.

Many locksmith companies even offer 24-hour emergency assistance. The experienced technician will arrive at the vehicle to help get the door open wherever the car is. They can even provide replacement keys and fobs. This can get a driver back on the road quickly and with the least amount of frustration.

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