What to do if I left my keys in the car?

Asked by: Jacynthe Keeling  |  Last update: January 24, 2026
Score: 4.7/5 (59 votes)

If you lock your keys in your car, stay calm, check if insurance covers lockouts, and consider calling a locksmith or roadside assistance. If capable, you might unlock it yourself with tools like a wire hanger or Slim Jim, or use a smartphone app for newer cars. Prioritize safe and non-damaging methods.

How to unlock your car when you lock your keys inside?

  1. Get Your Spare Key. ...
  2. Load Up Your App. ...
  3. Unlock Manual Locks with String or Fishing Line. ...
  4. Unlock with a Wire Clothes Hanger. ...
  5. Unlock with an Inflatable Pump Wedge. ...
  6. Unlock with a Strip of Sturdy Plastic. ...
  7. Call AAA or a Locksmith. ...
  8. Call the Police.

What happens if I leave my keys in my car?

Leaving the key in could activate the audible warning indicator, or lights, and may lead to battery discharge, this means your car might not start if left this way for several hours. Your keys could get locked in the car and you would be unable to get back in.

Who will unlock my car for free?

They can dispatch appropriate personnel, including police or firefighters, who may have the necessary tools to unlock your car door safely.
  • Reaching Out to Roadside Assistance Programs. ...
  • Seeking Help from Law Enforcement. ...
  • Contacting Local Towing Companies. ...
  • Reaching Out to Car Dealerships. ...
  • Searching for Locksmith Services.

How to unlock a door when the keys are inside?

Plastic card trick: For spring locks, you can attempt using a plastic card (like a debit card). Insert it between the door and the door frame, and then slide it downward sharply towards the locking mechanism. This method might disengage the lock and allow you to enter.

A Method how to unlock your car in 10 seconds :)

29 related questions found

Can I open my car windows with my key?

Roll down your car windows by holding down the unlock button on your key fob. You can roll the windows down using the physical car key in some car models. You may need to try a few different variations of these methods since car models vary.

Can I call the cops to unlock my car?

Being locked out of your car can be a valid reason to call the police. However, they may not be able or allowed to unlock your car unless there's an emergency, such as a small child or pet locked inside. Even so, without specific tools and skills, they'd likely need to break in just as you would.

Does 911 unlock car doors?

It's crucial to understand that if there is a pet or child in the car, you must call 911 right away. Don't try to break the glass; you could injure your pet or child. Police will have the equipment needed to safely open your car door.

Can you call a car company to unlock your car?

A car maker's subscription emergency service might also be able to remotely unlock your car, if equipped. Roadside assistance. If you participate in a roadside assistance club or your insurance company provides it as a perk for members, this could be a cheap and easy way to regain access to your car.

What to do if car keys left inside?

Steps
  1. Check all the doors to see if any of them are unlocked. ...
  2. Call the emergency number if a child or pet is trapped inside. ...
  3. Contact a friend or family member to get the spare key. ...
  4. Check your surroundings for possible solutions. ...
  5. Call roadside assistance if it's available to you.

Will my car lock itself if I leave the keys inside?

The short answer is 'it depends'. In most cars, if you exit the car and do not touch any locks (remote, key, or inside doors), the car will remain unlocked even if the keys are inside. However, if you lock the car and accidentally leave your keys inside it is likely that you won't be able to unlock your car.

What to do if you left your keys?

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU LOSE YOUR KEYS
  1. Make sure you don't have them. ...
  2. Think of where they could be. ...
  3. Conduct a thorough search. ...
  4. Call the police to report missing keys. ...
  5. Use a spare key. ...
  6. Call a locksmith. ...
  7. Decide whether to cut a new key or change your locks. ...
  8. Take steps for prevention.

Will the fire department unlock my car?

If there is a child or pet locked inside your home or vehicle, the Fire Department will respond and assist with unlocking the home or vehicle. If there is no life or fire hazard, the Fire Department will not respond, and a locksmith or roadside assistance would be the best options to consider for assistance.

What to do if you are locked in a car?

Call for help. Call your usual automobile association rescue crew and have them come out to release you from the car. Explain what has happened and make it very clear if the need is urgent due to the temperature and having children on board, etc.

Can I unlock my car with my phone?

You can lock, unlock, and start your car from your Android phone with a digital car key.

Who will unlock a car for free?

Luckily, AAA Roadside Assistance offers 24-hour car lockout service. A roadside technician will unlock your vehicle, and if they can't, your car can be towed or you can hire a locksmith and request reimbursement.

Can the police help you unlock your door?

Yes, the police can help if you are locked out of your house in certain emergency situations. However, for non-emergency lockouts, it's best to contact a locksmith or explore other options for assistance.

How to get keys out of a locked car?

To unlock your car with keys inside, use tools like a Slim Jim, wire hanger, string, wiper blade, or inflatable wedge. Newer cars may be unlocked via a smartphone app. Use these methods cautiously to prevent damage. If in doubt, contact a locksmith or roadside assistance for safe, reliable help.

How much does it cost for the police to unlock your car?

In most cases, the police can either break a window or use a slender metal tool to unlock your door without needing a key. While there's typically no charge for their assistance, it's essential to use this option only in emergencies, as you'll be responsible for repairing any damage to your window.

Will 911 open my locked car?

Yes. There is no fee for this service, but you will be required to sign a waiver for responsibility in the event that damage occurs to the locking mechanism.

What does it cost to unlock a car?

Here are some general price ranges for common car locksmith services. Car Lockout Service. Expect to pay between $60 and $150 for standard service during business hours. Emergency or after-hours service can increase the cost to $150 to $250 or more.

What to do if you leave your car window open?

What to Do if You Leave Your Windows Open in the Rain?
  1. Get the excessive water out. This is the first step, whether you have standing water or damp seats in your car. ...
  2. Check the Confined Spaces. ...
  3. Use Disposable Moisture Absorbers. ...
  4. Find Professional Help.

Can another car key open my car?

It's unlikely that someone with the same make and model of car as yours could open your car with their physical key or remote key. Modern cars use sophisticated electronic systems for their locks and keys, which include rolling codes and encrypted signals for remote key fobs, as well as different cut physical keys.

How do you open a locked car door with windows up?

Slide a metal coat hanger (or more (un)official 'Slim Jim'), with hooked end, between the window and door, and try to jiggle the mechanical lock to unlocked. Check all the other car doors.