Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces
Many vehicles now have enhanced security features. Older models usually include post locks that can be opened with simple methods.
Certain car makers offer mobile apps to unlock your vehicle. Contact your automaker 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, but they can actually be quite helpful if you know what to do. If your vehicle has an opening tab that can be moved vertically, typically near the window, you can unlock it using a pair of shoelaces.
Then you can tie a slip knot in the middle of two shoelaces. Bring both ends together and form a loop 3/4 of the way across the shoelaces. Then, slide the knot into the gap between the frame of your car and the door. Then, move the shoelace so that it connects to the lock mechanism. This can take a little bit of trial and error however once the shoelace is secured, simply pull up on both ends to open your vehicle.
The most important thing to remember when using this method is to do it slowly and be cautious not to scratch or damage your car in the process. You can save money by employing this method instead of calling a locksmith or a roadside assistance.
This method is a great alternative to more abrasive methods, such as hanging from a hook, which can scratch your vehicle. However, it might not always work, especially on more sophisticated models. In the event that the locking mechanism of your vehicle doesn't respond to this method then a long wooden rod or a screwdriver might be required to break the lock open.
2. Coat Hanger
Being locked out of your car is among the most frustrating experiences in the modern world. Many people have seen their parents or uncles use coathangers to open car door when they were children however, this is dangerous and may not work on all cars. The use of coat hangers to open a car's door could harm the door's frame and in some states it is illegal.
A simple wire coat hanger can be used to help unlock your car by sliding it in the space between your door and frame. Slide the coat hanger into the gap between the frame and the door. Bend it into a small V to ensure it has a firm grip on the lock. Pull the hanger up and you will let go of the pin which controls the lock. It is possible to move the hook back and forth a few times before you spot something that can move the lock however it shouldn't take too much effort to pull the bar up.
If you're unable to reach the hook on the coat hanger to release the control arm you might try placing it between the window and the weather stripping. You may need to feel around with the hook end of the coat hanger to locate this spot however once you've found it, you can jiggle and wiggle the hanger until you hear your door unlock. This is a risky method however it can be a viable method to gain access to your vehicle without a key or assistance from a professional. If this doesn't work you can always call a roadside assistance business or locksmith for more help.
3. Wooden Wedge
You can lose your keys quickly if you erroneously or are careless. And if you don't have the resources to contact AAA roadside assistance or locksmith services, you'll require an emergency solution to unlock your vehicle.
You can make use of anything that could open a gap between your frame and door. For instance you could use a screwdriver or tennis-balls, or a coathanger. You may have to spray air into the gap to allow it to be wide enough to insert your tool and reach the lock button however, be sure not to cause damage to your vehicle.
When they lock their keys in their car, a lot of people grab a pair of pliers or another tool. But, it's better to use a tool which won't scratch your paint or aluminum trim. Inflatable wedges are ideal for this purpose, and they are available in a variety of sizes that fit into most doors.
A long strip of plastic, folded in half like a grocery bag is a second option. Then, slide the strip into the door that you have opened, and when it is inside the lock then wrap it around the knob and pull it up. This is messy, but it's much quicker than using a screwdriver, or a coathanger.
If you're a newer model car owner, it's likely the lock mechanism isn't in the traditional handle that is located on the outside of the vehicle it's situated at the top of the window, close to the weather stripping. To unlock a vehicle with this kind of lock, you'll have to bend the wire hanger's tip into hook. Slide it into the gap between the window and door (or weather stripping) until it is at the lever or switch that locks.
4. Air Wedge
Air wedges, such as this one from HPC are a standard tool for repo and locksmith professionals to provide working space around the frame of the car window for easier entry into tools. They also provide an excellent way to avoid damage to the vehicle when you can't get into it with keys.
The air pump wedge is inserted between the weather stripping and the door to provide the proper pressure. A hand pump manual is then used to fill bags that separate the door of the vehicle from its window, thereby creating an opening big enough to accommodate an auto unlocking tool. This allows you to break the lock mechanism manual and unlock a car door without the need for a key.
A good air wedge has a stiffener to prevent the wedge from collapsing, and release vents to avoid over-inflation. It also comes with a tough vinyl bag that is not marring and built to last dozens of times. The wedges are best paired with a picker or long reach tool for unlocking doors in cars that can be put into the wedge to assist move the lock.
It's important to know that a person shouldn't attempt this method of opening their own car door. It could damage the car and require costly repairs at an auto body shop. In addition it's not a safe way to get into your car in the event that you've locked your keys inside.
It is recommended to contact a professional roadside assistance service to help you if you're stuck. They typically provide a qualified, experienced technician equipped with the appropriate tools to open a car door without causing damage to the vehicle. These experts can also help with towing, battery replacement and more.
5. Rod
A rod is a long, thin metal piece, which is usually tapered or cylindrical. G28 is used to support another object. In the car, it could be used to make an opening that allows you to reach your keys and open the door. It can be difficult to master this technique however, it's worth a shot. If you're lucky, it will work.
If you're not at ease opening your car, you can ask someone else to help. You can also employ an auto locksmith. You can find locksmiths in your area using the phone book or online. You can also sign up for an AAA membership that provides roadside assistance. This service will send someone to your location quickly and can open your vehicle with no hassle.
Many modern cars come with security features that stop people from breaking into them without keys. Older models are easier to break in. To unlock these vehicles, you can make use of a coat hanger or rod. To do this, separate the coat hanger at its hook and bend the straight side to create hook. To create a gap to slide the hook behind the weather strip into the door slit. Insert the rod, and then move it to depress the door lock switch or slide it.
Some automakers offer smartphone apps to help you unlock your car if you're locked out. BMW and Hyundai for instance, offer lockout apps which allow you to unlock your car using the smartphone's screen. OnStar is a program provided by other automakers like General Motors that can assist you if your vehicle is locked out. To access these apps, you'll require an iPhone 11 or later or Apple Watch Series 5 or later running the most current version of watchOS and be within Bluetooth range of your compatible car.