The fastest way to get keys locked in a car is usually to call a professional locksmith. This is the safest and most reliable method to avoid damaging your vehicle. If that's not an option immediately, checking if you have roadside assistance through your car insurance, auto manufacturer, or a third party like AAA is your next best step. These services often cover lockouts for free or a small fee. For a temporary DIY fix, you could try using a long, thin object like a shoelace or a blood pressure cuff to manipulate an unlocked door, but this carries a high risk of causing costly damage to window seals and door mechanisms. Before you panic, take a moment to thoroughly check all doors and the trunk. It sounds simple, but it’s common for one door, especially a rear one, to be overlooked and still be unlocked. Also, many modern key fobs prevent locking if they are detected inside the cabin, but this feature can fail if the fob's battery is dead or placed in a spot with poor signal, like the glovebox or trunk. Professional Services to Contact: | Service Type | Typical Cost | Average Wait Time | Key Advantage | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Local Locksmith | $50 - $150 | 20 - 45 minutes | Specialized tools minimize damage risk. | | Roadside Assistance (AAA) | $0 (with membership) | 30 - 60 minutes | Often included in existing memberships. | | Police (Non-Emergency) | Varies by locality | Not guaranteed | May assist if there's a safety risk (e.g., child inside). | Attempting to use improvised tools like a coat hanger or a wedge on modern cars with frameless windows is not recommended. The complex door seals and internal child safety locks can easily be damaged, leading to expensive repairs that far exceed the cost of a professional locksmith. Your primary goal should be to regain access without harming your car's electronics or body.
