Avoid These 5 Things Not To Do When You're Locked Out of Your Car

It happens to the best of us: you’re rushing, maybe juggling a coffee and your phone, and then *click*—the car door shuts, and your keys are staring back at you from the ignition. Getting locked out of your car is super frustrating, and it can really mess up your day. When you’re in that situation, it’s easy to make quick, bad decisions. But knowing what *not* to do can actually save you a ton of stress, money, and even keep your car from getting damaged. So, let’s talk about the 5 Things Not To Do When You're Locked Out of Your Car, so you can handle it like a pro, not a frantic mess.

Key Takeaways

• Don't panic; stay calm and think clearly.

• Never try to force your car door open, as it can cause damage.

• Avoid breaking a window at all costs; it's expensive and dangerous.

• Always have a spare key accessible to prevent lockouts.

• Prioritize your safety and surroundings when locked out.

1. Panic

Okay, so you're locked out. It's easy to freak out, I get it. You're probably already running late, or it's raining, or both. But seriously, panicking is the absolute worst thing you can do. It clouds your judgment and makes you more likely to do something stupid that'll cost you even more time and money.

Instead of losing it, take a deep breath. Seriously, a few deep breaths can make a world of difference. Think clearly.

Here's what not to do when you panic:

• Don't start yanking on the door handles like a maniac. You're not going to magically unlock the car with brute force. You'll probably just break something. If you have a manual car key, it may not work if you force it.

• Don't start smashing windows. I know it's tempting, but that's a really bad idea. Now you have to deal with broken glass, and it's going to cost a fortune to replace. Plus, it's dangerous.

• Don't just stand there and scream. Okay, maybe a little scream is okay, but don't let it consume you. Take action, but smart action.

Panicking leads to bad decisions. When you're calm, you can actually think about solutions. Did you check all your pockets? Is there a spare key hidden somewhere? Could you call someone for help? A clear head is your best tool in this situation.

So, breathe. Think. And then act. You'll be back in your car before you know it.

2. Force Open The Door

Okay, so you're locked out. It's tempting to just try and pry that door open, right? Maybe you've seen it in a movie, or someone told you about using a coat hanger. Let me tell you, that's usually a bad idea. Trying to force your car door open can cause some serious damage.

Think about it. Car locks aren't like they used to be. They're more complex, more secure. Sticking something in there and yanking on it? You're more likely to mess up the locking mechanism or bend the door frame than actually get it open. And then you're stuck with a bigger problem and a bigger bill. Instead, consider safe unlocking methods.

Instead of going all-in on the DIY route, consider these points:

• You could end up scratching the paint. That's an easy way to lower your car's value.

• You might damage the weather stripping. Then you'll have leaks when it rains.

• The locking mechanism itself could break. Now you're looking at a costly repair.

Trying to wedge your car door open is a bad idea, end of story. If your car’s locked, it’s almost impossible to get back in using a wedge, coat hanger or a metal rod… or at least, without seriously damaging your car door!

So, what should you do instead? Well, first, take a deep breath. Check everywhere for your keys. Seriously, look again. Then, if you're still locked out, call a professional. A locksmith or roadside assistance service can usually get you back in without causing any damage. They have the right tools and know-how. Plus, it's way less stressful than wrestling with your car door and potentially making things worse. Remember to check for spare keys before resorting to drastic measures.

3. Break The Window

Okay, let's be real. You're standing there, locked out, maybe a little frustrated. The thought crosses your mind: "I'll just break a window!" Please, just... don't.

Smashing a window should be your absolute last resort. It's almost always a bad idea, and here's why:

• It's going to cost you. Your insurance might not cover it, meaning you're paying for the repair out-of-pocket. And window repairs aren't cheap.

• You're creating a safety hazard. Now you have shards of glass everywhere, inside and outside your car. Great. Just great.

• Driving without a window? Depending on the weather, that could be miserable, or even dangerous. Plus, it's just asking for more trouble with the law.

Think about it this way: a broken window is an invitation for theft. You've just made it incredibly easy for someone to reach in and grab whatever they want. Is that laptop really worth it?

There are better options. Seriously. Consider calling a locksmith for car entry or even roadside assistance. They can usually get you back in without causing any damage. And if you're thinking about which window to break, remember that breaking the rear quarter glass might seem like a good idea, but it still comes with all the downsides listed above. It's almost never worth it.

4. Forget A Spare Key

Okay, let's be real. How many of us actually have a spare car key readily available? It's one of those things we always mean to do, but then life happens, and suddenly you're staring at your locked car, feeling like a total idiot. Having a spare key tucked away somewhere safe can seriously save you a ton of grief.

It's easy to think, "Oh, it won't happen to me," but trust me, it can. Keys get lost, stolen, or just plain misplaced. And when that happens, you'll be kicking yourself for not taking a few minutes to get a spare made. I know I have before!

Here are a few ideas where to keep that spare:

• Give a spare to a trusted friend or family member who lives nearby. This is great if you have someone you can always count on.

• Stash a key in a magnetic key holder hidden somewhere on your car. Just make sure it's not too obvious!

• Keep a spare at home in a secure location. This is helpful if you're locked out at home, but not so much if you're stranded elsewhere.

Seriously, take the time to get a spare key made. It's a small investment that can save you a huge headache down the road. Plus, it's way cheaper than calling a locksmith every time you lock yourself out. Trust me on this one.

And while you're at it, maybe consider a keyless entry system. It's a bit of an investment upfront, but it can be a game-changer in terms of convenience and security. No more fumbling for keys in the dark!

5. Ignore Safety Precautions

Getting locked out of your car is annoying, but it can also be dangerous depending on where you are. I remember this one time I locked my keys in the car at a gas station late at night. It wasn't the best area, and I felt super vulnerable. Ignoring basic safety can turn a simple lockout into a really bad situation.

Here's what to keep in mind:

• Assess your surroundings: Are you in a well-lit, public place, or are you isolated? If you feel uneasy, call for help immediately. Don't try to handle it alone. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Think about using roadside assistance if you are in an unfamiliar area.

• Trust your gut: If someone approaches you offering help and you get a bad vibe, don't hesitate to decline and call for assistance. Your intuition is there for a reason.

• Stay visible: Turn on your hazard lights to make your car more visible to other drivers. This is especially important at night or in bad weather. It also signals that you might need help.

Being aware of your surroundings and taking simple precautions can make a huge difference in your safety. Don't let the frustration of being locked out cloud your judgment. Prioritize your well-being above all else.

It's easy to get flustered when you're locked out, but taking a moment to think about your safety can prevent a bad situation from getting worse. I learned my lesson that night at the gas station – now I always have a plan B!

Wrapping It Up: Stay Smart, Stay Safe

So, getting locked out of your car is a real pain, right? It happens to pretty much everyone at some point. But knowing what not to do can save you a ton of trouble, and some cash too. Don't go smashing windows or trying to jimmy the lock yourself; that just makes things worse. And please, don't ignore your own safety, especially if you're stuck somewhere sketchy. The main thing is to stay calm, check your options, and call in the pros when you need to. A little planning, like having a spare key or knowing who to call, goes a long way. Stay smart, and you'll be back on the road in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do first if I get locked out of my car?

The best thing to do is stay calm. Check all your car doors and windows, including the trunk, as one might be unlocked. If not, call a professional locksmith or roadside assistance. They have the right tools to open your car without causing damage.

Is it okay to try and force my car door open?

No, you should never try to force open your car door or window. This can cause serious damage to your car's paint, locks, windows, or even the internal wiring, which will cost you much more to fix than calling a professional.

Should I break a window to get into my locked car?

Breaking a window is a very bad idea. It's expensive to replace, can be dangerous due to shattered glass, and might even set off your car's alarm. There are much safer and cheaper ways to get back into your car.

Why is it important to have a spare key?

Having a spare key is super important! You can keep one at home, with a trusted family member or friend, or even in a secure magnetic box hidden on your car. This can save you a lot of trouble if you lock your main key inside.

What safety tips should I remember when locked out?

Always be aware of your surroundings, especially if you're locked out in a dark or unfamiliar area. If you feel unsafe, move to a well-lit spot or call someone to stay on the phone with you until help arrives. Your safety comes first.

Can professionals open my car without damaging it?

Yes, professional locksmiths and roadside assistance services are trained to open car doors safely without causing any damage. They use special tools that can unlock your car quickly and efficiently.