Getting locked out of your car is a stressful experience. There are so many potential issues that could come up and so many different things that could go wrong. However, it’s nothing to panic about as long as you are prepared. If you lock yourself out of your car in any situation, keep the following in mind:
- Check your surroundings. If you are away from your normal area, look around and familiarize yourself with where you are at so that you can tell the provider. This will also allow you to ensure that you’re in a safe, well-lit area or that you can get to one until help arrives.
- Never let anyone else try to unlock your vehicle. This could cause unwanted damage, which could lead to insurance issues or cause the need for further repairs. Just be patient and wait for help to arrive.
- Find a locksmith that can help you with the specific way that you have locked yourself out. Some locksmiths will retrieve keys, for example, but may not be able to copy them or rekey locks in emergencies.
- If you haven’t already, see if you can get a hold of the spare set of keys while you are waiting if you have a set and you are close enough to home. Otherwise, just wait for the car locksmith to arrive.
- When you call the locksmith, ask how much they charge for service and whether there is an emergency premium for after-hours calls. While you might be in a tight spot needing your keys, you don’t need them badly enough to spend a small fortune on a locksmith when you don’t have to.
- Always remain calm and logical. Don’t break glass or do anything destructive. You aren’t a professional and don’t know all of the options. Modern tools and technology make it easy for pros to help just about anyone who is locked out of their car. Let them help.
Getting locked out of your car is not a good time. However, if you’re prepared and know how to get through the process with the least amount of stress, it will be a lot less painful than you think. Remember, above all else, to make sure that you are in a safe place, or that you can get to one, while you wait for your car locksmith to arrive and unlock your doors.