Locked Out of Your Car? Here’s What to Do (and What NOT to Do)

Getting locked out of your car is one of the most common — and most stressful — emergencies we handle. Before you panic or try something drastic, here’s a step-by-step guide from our technicians.

What to Do

Stay Calm and Check All Doors

It sounds obvious, but check every door and the trunk before assuming you’re locked out. On many vehicles, a rear door or the hatch may still be unlocked.

Call a Professional Locksmith

A mobile locksmith can reach your location in about 30 minutes and open your car without damage. We carry tools designed specifically for non-destructive vehicle entry.

Check if Roadside Assistance is Included

Many insurance policies, credit cards, and auto memberships include lockout coverage. Check your policy before paying out of pocket.

Stay in a Safe Location

If you’re in a parking garage or an unfamiliar area at night, stay in a well-lit, populated spot. If you feel unsafe, call the police non-emergency line while waiting for the locksmith.

What NOT to Do

Don’t Try a Coat Hanger

Modern vehicles have anti-theft protections that make slim-jim techniques dangerous. You can easily damage the door panel, wiring, or airbag sensors — resulting in hundreds of dollars in repairs.

Don’t Break a Window

Unless there’s a genuine emergency (like a child or pet locked inside in extreme heat), breaking a window is never the right call. The cost of window replacement is far higher than a locksmith service call.

Don’t Leave the Scene

Staying near your vehicle prevents theft and ensures the locksmith can find you quickly.

A professional locksmith can open most vehicles in under 5 minutes without any damage. The cost is always less than a broken window or a damaged door panel.

How to Prevent Future Lockouts

Get a spare key made and keep it in your wallet, with a trusted friend, or in a magnetic key box
Use a key tracker like Tile or AirTag attached to your keyring
Develop a habit of checking for your keys before closing the car door