Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces
Many cars today have heightened security features. Older models still often have post locks which can be opened using simple techniques.
Certain car manufacturers provide mobile applications that let you unlock your car. Check with your car manufacturer to find out if they have this option available to you.
1. Shoelaces
Shoes may not be the best option when you're locked out of your vehicle however they can be quite helpful in the event that you know how to use them. If you own a car with an locking tab mechanism that can be moved vertically up and down, usually by the window, there is a simple trick you can employ to unlock your car using nothing more than the shoelaces.
Then tie a slip knot at the middle of two shoelaces. Join both ends and create a loop that runs 3/4 of the way across the combined shoelaces. Then, slide the knot into the crack between the frame of your car and the door. Then, move the shoelace so that it connects to the lock mechanism. It may take a amount of trial and error but once the shoelace is hooked, simply pull up on both ends to unlock your vehicle.
When using this method the most important thing to bear in mind is to not scratch or damage your vehicle. If you can successfully use this method to open your car, it could reduce the expense of an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service and get you back on the road in a fraction of the time.
This is a great alternative to more abrasive methods, such hanging a hanger which could scratch your vehicle. However, it may not always work, particularly on models that are more advanced. If your car's locking mechanism does not respond to this method, a long wooden rod or a screwdriver might be required to break the lock open.
2. Coat Hanger
Being locked out of your vehicle is one of the most frustrating events that can happen in the present. Many people have seen their uncle or father use a coat hanger to open the car door when they were younger, but this method can be a bit dangerous and may not work for all vehicles. The use of coat hangers to open a car door can harm the door's frame and in certain states, it is illegal.
You can unlock your car with a simple coathanger made of wire by sliding it between the door and the door frame. Place the coat hanger in the gap between the door and the frame. Bend it into a small V shape to ensure that it is secure against the lock. Then, pull upwards on the hanger until you can release the bar or pin that controls the door lock. It may be necessary to move the hook a few times to catch something that will move the lock. But, it isn't a huge effort to lift the bar.
If you're not able to get the hook of the coat hanger to release the control arm, put it between the window and stripping. The hook end of the hanger may be required to locate this spot. Once you've found it, jiggle and wiggle until you hear the door unlock. This is a risky method however it can be a great way to gain access to your vehicle without the need for professional assistance or a key. If this doesn't work, you can contact an emergency roadside service or locksmith to get more help.
3. Wooden Wedge
You can lose your keys quickly if you erroneously or are reckless. If you don't want wait for AAA roadside assistance or for a locksmith to show up at your home you'll need a quick way to unlock your vehicle.
You can use almost anything that can open a space between your door and frame like a coat hanger, a tennis ball, or even an screwdriver. You may need to inject some air into the gap to allow it to be wide enough to allow your tool to slide in and hit the lock button though, so be careful not to cause damage to your vehicle.
A lot of people will use a pair of pliers or other tools when they lock their keys in their vehicles It's recommended to choose an instrument that doesn't scratch or scuff your paint or aluminum trim. Inflatable wedges are perfect for this task, and come in a range of sizes that will fit on most doors.
A long piece of plastic, folded in half like a grocery bag is a second alternative. Then, slide the strip into the door that has been opened, and when it's at the lock, wrap it around the knob and pull it up. This method can be messy, but it's faster than using a screwdriver or coathanger.
If you own a brand newer vehicle, the lock mechanism may not be located in the traditional handle on the outside, but instead on the top of your window, near the weather seal. To unlock a car with this kind of lock, you'll have to bend the end of the wire hanger into a hook and move it into the space between the window and the door (or the weather stripping) until it's reached the lever or lock switch.
4. Air Wedge
Air wedges, like this one from HPC are a standard tool used by repo and locksmith professionals to provide working space around the car window frame for more straightforward tools entry. They're also a great way to prevent damaging the vehicle if you aren't able to access it using keys.
The wedge of the air pump is placed between the weather stripping and the door to provide the proper pressure. Then, locked car is used to fill the bag to the point that it separates the door of the vehicle 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 easy to break the lock mechanism manually and unlock a car's door without a key.
A quality air wedge comes with an elasticizer to stop it from collapsing and an exit vent to stop over-inflation. It also comes with a durable, non-marring vinyl bag designed for a variety of uses. These wedges are best used with a long-reach car door unlocking tool or picker that can be put into the wedge.
It's important to note that a person shouldn't attempt this method of opening their own car door. This could damage the vehicle which could require costly repairs at an auto body shop. Furthermore it's not an appropriate method to gain entry into your car in the case that you've locked your keys inside.
It is suggested that people who are stranded in their car call a professional roadside assistance service to seek assistance. They typically provide a qualified, experienced technician equipped with the appropriate tools to open a car door without damaging the vehicle. These experts can also assist with battery replacement, towing and other issues.
5. Rod
A rod is a long, thin metal piece that is typically circular or tapered. It supports another object. It can be used in the car to create a gap in which you can access the keys and open the doors. It's not easy to use this method however, it's worth a try. If you're lucky, it will work.
If you're not comfortable trying to open your car on your own or garage, you could ask a friend to do it for you. You can also hire an auto locksmith. You can find one close to you by looking on the internet or phone book. You can also purchase an AAA membership that provides roadside assistance. This service will send someone to your home or office within a short time and allow them unlock your car without any hassles.
Many modern vehicles come with security features that prevent thieves from gaining entry without keys. Older models are easier to break in. To unlock these vehicles, you need to use a coat hanger, or rod. To do this, you need to separate the coathanger from the hook and bend the straight end into hook. Slip the hook behind the weather strip and into the door slit to create a gap. Then, insert the rod and then move it until you can depress the door lock switch, or slide it.
Some automakers also provide smartphone apps that can aid you in the event that you are locked out of your car. For instance, BMW and Hyundai offer the lockout app that lets you to unlock your car using the smartphone screen. OnStar is a service offered by other automakers, such as General Motors that can assist you if your vehicle is locked out. You'll need an iPhone 11 or newer or Apple Watch Series 5 with the most recent version watchOS, and be within Bluetooth range.