What to Do If You Lock Your Car Keys Inside the Car?
2 Answers
If you lock your car keys inside the car, you can use the spare key, call a locksmith, break a window to open the door, or arrange for a tow truck. Here are some relevant methods for unlocking the car: 1. Use the spare key: When purchasing a vehicle, the original set of keys usually includes at least two keys—one for regular use and another as a spare. The spare key should be kept in a safe place at home and not carried around to avoid unnecessary trouble if lost. If the regular key is accidentally locked inside the car, retrieving the spare key is the simplest and least costly solution. 2. Call a locksmith: If you are far from home and retrieving the spare key is impractical, hiring a professional locksmith is another option. Be sure to choose a licensed and reputable locksmith. The time required to unlock the car varies depending on the vehicle model, but it typically takes about 15 minutes. 3. Break a window to open the door: To minimize damage, first identify which window is the least expensive to replace. Windshields or sunroofs can cost at least 500 yuan, while side windows are relatively cheaper, with triangular windows possibly costing only 100 yuan or even less. Since the rear door's triangular window is closest to the door lock, it is the best choice if breaking a window is necessary.
Once I accidentally left my car keys inside the vehicle at a mall parking lot. I took a deep breath to calm down immediately. Remembering that I had a spare key placed in my home desk drawer, I called my family to bring it over, and the problem was solved after a short wait. Nowadays, many new car models support remote control via mobile apps. For example, by downloading the official app of the car brand and logging in, you can simply tap to unlock the doors—it's very convenient and quick. If you don't have a spare key or your car is too old, it's best to call a professional locksmith company. They have specialized tools to safely unlock the car without damaging the doors. Developing a habit of double-checking that you have the keys in your pocket before leaving the car, or using an anti-forgetfulness lanyard attached to your belt, can help avoid repeating the same mistake. Never attempt to pry the door open or break the car window yourself, as glass fragments could cause injuries and you'd end up spending unnecessary money on repairs. In emergencies, you can contact the 4S dealership or your insurance company's roadside assistance service.
