The fastest way to unlock a car with the keys inside is to call a professional locksmith or use a roadside assistance service like AAA. These are the safest and most reliable methods. If those aren't immediate options, you can attempt a DIY method using a long, thin rod (like a slim jim or a blood pressure cuff) to press the unlock button, but this carries a high risk of damaging your car's door seals or window mechanisms.
Your first step should always be to double-check all doors and the trunk. It’s surprisingly common for one door to be inadvertently left unlocked. If you have a car with a keypad entry system on the door or a connected app on your phone (like GM's OnStar, Toyota's Remote Connect, or FordPass), you may be able to unlock it digitally.
For modern keyless entry systems, the car might not lock if it detects the fob inside. Try carefully pulling the door handle; it might still be unlocked. If you must attempt a physical entry, using a wedge and a long reach tool is the least invasive method. You insert an inflatable wedge into the top corner of the door frame to create a small gap, then carefully feed a long, rigid rod (like a dedicated auto lockout tool or even a straightened coat hanger) through the gap to reach and press the power door lock button.
| Unlock Method | Average Cost | Average Wait Time | Risk of Damage | Best For |
|---|
| Roadside Assistance (AAA) | $0 (with membership) | 30-60 minutes | Very Low | Safety & Convenience |
| Professional Locksmith | $50 - $150 | 20-45 minutes | Low | Quick professional service |
| DIY Wedge & Rod | $0 (if you have tools) | 5-15 minutes | High | Emergency only, high risk |
| Car Manufacturer App | $0 - $15/month | Instant | None | Connected vehicles only |
Attempting to use a coat hanger or other improvised tools on a traditional lock post can easily scratch the window tint and damage the internal door mechanism. Calling a professional is almost always the better financial decision compared to repairing self-inflicted damage.
