Have you lost your car keys? Was your little one misplacing them? Or, worse, did your angry ex decide to hide them? Getting locked out of your car is one of those frustrating moments that can happen to anyone, often at the most inconvenient times. It’s easy to feel helpless in such stressful moments, but knowing a few simple tricks can save you time, money, and mental peace.

Use Remote Unlock

This should be your first option if you’re fortunate enough to have a spare key or remote unlock system. Many newer vehicles come with keyless entry, allowing you to unlock doors with the push of a button. This is another convenient solution if your car has a smartphone app that offers remote unlock features.

Utilize a String or Shoelace

For older cars with traditional post locks, you can use a string or shoelace to unlock the door. Tie a loop in the middle of the string, then gently work it into the car door through the gap where the door meets the body. You can maneuver the loop over the lock post and pull it up to unlock the door. This technique requires patience and practice, as getting the loop over the lock can be tricky.

Employ an Emergency Car Door Unlocking App

Some modern vehicles have connected services that allow you to unlock your car using a smartphone app. The car manufacturer usually provides these apps, which can be lifesavers if locked out without a spare key. Ensure that your car is compatible with remote unlocking via an app and that your app is set up correctly before you find yourself in a lockout situation.

Use a Coat Hanger

This is another method that works for old cars with manual locking mechanisms. Start by straightening a coat hanger, leaving a small hook on one end. Insert the hanger between the window and weather stripping, then maneuver until you hook the locking mechanism or door latch. However, this method can scratch your window or damage the weather stripping if not done carefully.

Use a Windshield Wiper

Sometimes, you can use your windshield wiper to unlock your car. If your car’s wipers are easily removable and your window is slightly open,  detach a wiper, insert it through the gap, and try to hit the unlock button. Remember that this only works if there’s a gap in the window, so it won’t be effective if your windows are fully closed.

Utilize a Slim Jim

A Slim Jim is a long, flat metal tool locksmiths use to unlock car doors. The tool is slid between the window and the door’s weather stripping, aiming to hook the control arm of the door lock mechanism. If not done correctly, this method can damage your car’s electrical system or scratch the interior of your door.

Use a Plastic Strip

If you don’t have a metal tool, you can unlock your car with a flexible plastic strip, like a zip tie or a cut strip from a plastic bottle. Try to slide the plastic strip between the car door and the weather stripping, then work it down. However, be careful because this requires patience and a delicate touch.

Use a Wedge

You’ll need a rubber or plastic wedge and a long-reach tool like a stick or a coat hanger for this method. You want to create a small gap between the car door and the car’s body using the wedge. Once you’ve created a gap, you can use any long-reach tool to reach the inside lock and open the door.

Utilize a Portable Car Door Unlocking Kit

Portable car door unlocking kits are designed for emergencies. They typically include tools like wedges, air pumps, and long-reach tools. If you often misplace your car keys, investing in one of these kits will be a smart decision. But be careful while using this kit, as you don’t want to scratch the windows or damage your doors.

Use an Antenna

In some older cars, the antenna can be unscrewed to unlock the door. If the window is slightly open, insert the antenna through the gap and try to press the unlock button or pull the handle from the inside. Remember to not bend the antenna while attempting to unlock the door.

Call Roadside Assistance

If you have a roadside assistance plan through your car insurance, an auto club, or your vehicle’s manufacturer, you can call them for help. They often offer lockout services and can send someone to unlock your car within a short time frame. Remember to keep your roadside assistance information handy, especially during long trips.

Call a Professional Locksmith

When all else fails, or if you’re concerned about damaging your vehicle, calling a professional locksmith is often the safest and most reliable option. Locksmiths have the right tools and experience to unlock your car without causing damage. So, ensure you’re contacting a reputable locksmith to avoid potential scams.

Use a Magnetic Key Holder

Preventing a lockout is sometimes the best solution. A magnetic key holder allows you to hide a spare key in a discreet spot on the underside of your vehicle to retrieve the key and unlock your car without any fuss. Make sure to choose a well-concealed spot for the magnetic key holder, as leaving it in an obvious location could increase the theft risk.

Utilize the Trunk Access

In some vehicles, you can access the cabin through the trunk. If your car has foldable rear seats and the trunk is unlocked or can be opened with a remote, you can crawl through the trunk and unlock the doors from the inside. Nevertheless, this method won’t work if the trunk is locked or if your car doesn’t have foldable rear seats.

Break a Window

But what if nothing works? Breaking a window may be your only option, but it should only be used in extreme situations, such as when a child or pet is locked inside the car on a hot day. Use a blunt object like a tire iron or a window breaker tool to break a side window, preferably one furthest from the occupants, to avoid injury.