Locked Out of Your Car? Here’s What You Should Do
Locked Out of Your Car? Here’s What You Should Do
It happens to the best of us—you’re in a rush, step out of your car, and before you know it, the door shuts, and you realise the keys are still inside. Locking yourself out of your car can be a stressful and inconvenient experience, but don’t worry—there are steps you can take to get back on the road quickly and safely. Here’s a guide on what to do if you find yourself locked out of your car in Australia.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first thing to do is stay calm. Panicking won’t help the situation, and it’s important to take a moment to assess your surroundings. Are you in a safe area? Do you have access to your phone? Is there a spare key nearby? Taking a deep breath and considering your options will help you handle the situation more effectively.
2. Check All the Doors and Windows
Before calling for help, make sure you’ve checked all the doors and windows of your car. Sometimes, a passenger door or a back window might be unlocked, allowing you to regain access without any further assistance. However, if all doors and windows are securely locked, it’s time to consider your next steps.
3. Call for Roadside Assistance
If you’re a member of a roadside assistance program, now is the time to call them. Companies like NRMA, RACV, or RACQ offer lockout services as part of their membership. They can send a professional to unlock your car without causing any damage. Keep your membership number handy and provide your exact location when calling.
4. Use a Spare Key
If you have a spare key at home or with a trusted friend or family member, give them a call to see if they can bring it to you. Having a spare key is always a good idea, and now is the perfect time to use it. Consider giving a spare key to someone you trust or keeping one in a secure, accessible place for future emergencies.
5. Call a Locksmith
If you don’t have access to roadside assistance and no spare key is available, calling a locksmith is your next best option. A professional locksmith can unlock your car quickly and safely. Be sure to use a licensed locksmith to avoid potential damage to your vehicle.
6. Avoid DIY Solutions
You might be tempted to try a DIY solution to unlock your car, such as using a coat hanger or a slim jim. However, these methods can damage your vehicle’s locking mechanisms, windows, or doors, leading to costly repairs. It’s usually best to leave this task to professionals who have the right tools and expertise.
7. Don’t Break the Window
As a last resort, you might consider breaking a window to get back into your car. This is generally not advisable unless it’s an absolute emergency, such as a child or pet being trapped inside on a hot day. Breaking a window can be dangerous and expensive to fix, so it should only be done when there’s no other option and immediate access is required for safety reasons.
8. Prepare for the Future
Once you’ve regained access to your car, take steps to prevent future lockouts. Consider investing in a keyless entry system or smart key fob that allows you to unlock your car with a code or smartphone app. Keeping a spare key in a secure, hidden location, like a magnetic box under the car, can also be a lifesaver in similar situations.
Conclusion
Locking yourself out of your car is never fun, but it doesn’t have to ruin your day. By staying calm, assessing your options, and seeking professional help when needed, you can quickly resolve the situation and get back on the road. Remember, the best way to handle a lockout is to be prepared—so take a few minutes now to plan for the unexpected.
