If a child or pet is inside
Call 911 now. In heat or cold this is an emergency, and emergency services will get in faster than anyone else.
If nobody is in danger
- Check every door and the trunk. One is unlocked more often than you would think.
- Think about a spare. Is someone at home able to bring it? Does your car have an app that unlocks it?
- Check your coverage. Some insurance policies, credit cards and new-car warranties include lockout help.
- Call a car locksmith. Give the exact location and the make, model and year.
What not to try
- Coat hangers and slim jims. Modern doors have wiring, airbags and shielded rods inside. You are more likely to break something than open it.
- Breaking a window. Glass costs more than a lockout and leaves the car open.
- Prying the door frame. A bent frame whistles and leaks forever.
How a locksmith opens it
An air wedge makes a small gap at the top of the door and a long tool presses the unlock button or pulls the handle. On some cars the lock is picked instead. Done properly it leaves no mark.
Related: car lockout, trunk lockout, truck lockout.
Need help now? Call (888) 804-8930, 24/7, and we will connect you with a local car locksmith. See locations and how it works.