Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces
Many cars are now equipped with advanced security features. Older models often have post locks which can be opened using simple methods.
Some car manufacturers offer mobile apps that allow you to unlock your car. Contact your automaker to see if they have this service available for you.
1. Shoelaces
Shoelaces might not seem like the best tool to use when you're locked out of your vehicle but they can be quite helpful in the event that you know what to do. For those who have vehicles with the locking tab mechanism which moves vertically upwards and downwards generally by the window, there is a simple trick you can employ to unlock your car using nothing more than a pair of shoelaces.
Then, tie a slip knot at the middle of two shoelaces. Join both ends and form an elongated loop 3/4 of the way across the shoelaces. Slide the noose into the gap between the car's frame and the door. Then, maneuver the shoelace until it is able to connect to the lock mechanism. It could require some trial and trial and connected. Once it's hooked, you can pull both ends to unlock your car.
When using this method, the most important thing to keep in mind is to not scratch or cause damage to your vehicle. You can save money by employing this method instead of calling a locksmith or roadside assistance.
This method is a great alternative to more abrasive techniques such hanging a hanger which can scratch your vehicle. However, it does not always work, especially on models that are more advanced. In the event that the locking mechanism of your vehicle doesn't respond to this method, a long wooden rod or a screwdriver might be needed to pry the lock open.
2. Coat Hanger
Being locked out of your car is one of the most frustrating things that can happen in modern times. Many people have seen their uncles or fathers use coathangers to open car door when they were young, but this can be risky and might not work for all vehicles. Utilizing a hanger for opening your car may damage your door's frame, and is illegal in certain states.
A simple coat hanger made of wire can be used to unlock your car by sliding it into the space between your door and door frame. Place the coat hanger in the gap between the frame and the door. Bend it into a small V to ensure it holds tightly on the lock. Pull the hanger up and you'll be able to release the pin that controls the lock. You may need to move the hook several times to catch something that will move the lock. It shouldn't take much effort to lift the bar.
If you are unable to reach the hook of the coat hanger out of the control arm, you can put it between the window and weather stripping. The hook end of the hanger might be required to locate this area. Once you have found it then jiggle and wiggle until you hear the door open. This method is risky, but can also be a viable method to gain access to your vehicle with no key or assistance from a professional. If this doesn't work you can always contact a roadside assistance company or locksmith for more help.
3. Wooden Wedge
A slip of the fingers or a little bit of negligence can result in you losing your keys in a snap. If you don't want wait for AAA roadside assistance, or a locksmith to arrive at your address, you will need an immediate method of unlocking your vehicle.
You can make use of anything that can open the gap between your frame and your door. For example, you can use a screwdriver or tennis-balls, or a coat hanger. You may need to inject air into the gap to make it wider enough to insert your tool and reach the lock button, but be cautious not to scratch your car.
When they lock their keys in their cars, many people will reach for a pair of pliers or another tool. But, it's better to choose a tool that will not scratch your paint or aluminum trim. Inflatable wedges are perfect for this job and are available in a variety of sizes that fit all doors.
Another option is to use a long strip of plastic folded in half, like grocery bags. Slide the strip into the door that is pried open and, when it is close to the lock, loop it around the knob and pull upward. This method is messy, but it's much faster than using a screwdriver, or a coathanger.
If you have a more modern vehicle the lock mechanism might not be in the traditional handle on the outside, but in the middle of your window, near the weather seal. To unlock a car with this type of lock, you'll have to bend the end of an old wire hanger into a hook, then slide it into the space between the door and the window (or the weather stripping) until it's reached the lever or lock switch.
4. Air Wedge
Locksmiths and repo professionals use air wedges such as this one by HPC to create more space around the car window frame to allow them to enter tools with ease. They also serve as a great option to prevent damaging the vehicle when gaining access without a key.
The air pump wedge operates by sliding between the door and the door's weather stripping into the proper position when pressure is applied. Then, a hand pump is used to inflate the bag until it separates the car door from the window of the vehicle and makes an opening wide enough to allow for the use of a car unlocking tool. This makes it possible to unlock a vehicle door without using a key, by breaking the lock mechanism manually.
A good air wedge will have a stiffener that prevents it from collapsing when it's pumped up and a release valve to prevent over-inflation. It will also come with a tough vinyl bag that isn't marring and designed to last several times. These wedges are best used with a long-reach car unlocking tool for doors or a picker that is inserted in the wedge.
It's important to note that one shouldn't try this method of opening the door of their car. This could result in damage to the vehicle that will require costly repairs at a body shop. This is also not a safe way to open your car if you've locked your keys inside.
It is suggested to contact an experienced roadside service to help you if you're stranded. They will usually send a trained, experienced technician equipped with the appropriate tools to open a car door without causing damage to the vehicle. They can assist with battery replacement and towing, among other things.
5. Rod
A rod is a piece of steel, usually tapered or cylindrical, which is used to support something else. In the car, it can be used to make an opening through which you can access your keys and unlock the door. It's not easy to use this method, but it is worth a try. If you're lucky, it will work.
If you're not comfortable opening your vehicle, you could ask a friend to do it for you. You can also employ a locksmith. You can find one near you by checking the internet or phone book. Another option is to sign up for an AAA membership, which comes with roadside assistance. This service will send an individual to your location fast and can open your vehicle without difficulty.
Many newer vehicles have security features to prevent people from breaking into the vehicle without a key. Older models, however are more difficult to break into. To unlock these vehicles, make use of a coat hanger or rod. To do this, you must separate the coat hanger at its hook and bend the straight side into the shape of a hook. To create a gap, slide the hook behind the weather strip into the door slit. Inject the rod, and then move it to press the door-lock switch or slide it.
Some automakers offer smartphone apps to help you unlock your car when you're locked out. For instance, BMW and Hyundai offer the lockout app that lets you to unlock your car with the smartphone's screen. locked keys car , such as General Motors, have an OnStar program that can help you unlock your car if it's locked out. You'll need to have an iPhone 11 or newer or Apple Watch Series 5 with the most recent version of watchOS and be within Bluetooth range.