Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces
Many cars today have heightened security features. Older models often come with post locks that are opened using simple methods.
Some car manufacturers offer mobile applications that let you unlock your car. You can ask your automaker to see if this service is available to you.
1. Shoelaces
If you know how to use them, shoelaces could be a useful option when you are locked out of your vehicle. If your vehicle has an opening tab that slides up and down vertically, usually near the window, you can unlock it with a pair shoelaces.
First, remove the shoelaces from a pair of shoes that you're not wearing, then tie a slip knot in the middle of the shoelaces. Bring both ends together to form a loop about 3/4 of the way down the combined shoelaces. Then, pull the knot down into the crack between your car door and its frame. Then, adjust the shoelace until it is able to connect to the lock mechanism. It could require some trial and trial and connected. Once it is you're done, pull both ends to unlock your car.
The most important thing to remember when using this method is to work slowly and be sure not to scratch or damage your car during the process. If you are able to successfully employ this method to unlock your car, it could help you save the cost of a locksmith or roadside assistance service and get you back on the road in less than a minute.
This method is a great alternative to more abrasive methods such as hanging from a hook, which can scratch your vehicle. However, it may not always work, particularly on more advanced models. If your vehicle's locking system isn't responding, you might require an electric screwdriver or a long wooden bar to open it open.
2. Coat Hanger
Being locked out of your vehicle is one of the most frustrating things that can happen in modern times. Many people have witnessed their parents or uncles use coathangers to open car door when they were young but this could be risky and might not work for all vehicles. The use of a coat hanger to open a door in a car can cause damage to the door's frame, and in some states it is illegal.
A simple wire coat hanger can be used to help unlock a car by slipping it in the space between your door and frame. Place the coat hanger in the gap between the frame and the door. Bend it into a small V to ensure it is secure against the lock. Then, pull upwards on the hanger until you can release the pin or bar that controls the door lock. You may have to move the hook a few times to catch something that can move the lock. However, it isn't a huge effort to lift the bar.
If you cannot get the hook of your coat to let go of the control arm, you could try placing it between the window and the weather stripping. The hook end of the hanger could be required to locate this area. Once you have found it then jiggle and wiggle until you can hear the door unlock. This is a risky method however it can be a great way to gain entry into your vehicle without the need for professional assistance or the use of a key. If this doesn't work, you can contact a roadside service or locksmith to get more help.
3. Wooden Wedge
A quick slip of the fingers or a moment of negligence can result in you losing your keys in a hurry. If you don't have the resources to call AAA roadside assistance or locksmith services, you'll require something quick to open your car.
You can make use of just about anything that can open a space between your frame and door, such as a coat hanger or tennis ball or even a screwdriver. You may have to squirt air into the gap to make it large enough for your tool to fit through and reach the lock. Be careful not to scratch the car.
When they lock their keys in their car, a lot of people will reach for a pair of pliers or another tool. However, it's better to choose a tool that doesn't scratch aluminum trim or paint. Inflatable wedges are great for this purpose, and can be found in various sizes that fit inside most doors.
Another alternative is to make use of the length of a plastic strip folded in half, such as a grocery bag. Place the strip inside the door that was pried open and, once it's at the lock, wrap it around the knob and pull it upwards. This is messy, but it's much quicker than using a screwdriver or a coathanger.
If you own a brand newer vehicle the lock mechanism might not be located in the traditional handle on the outside, but rather at the top of your window, close to the weather seal. To unlock open my car using this type of lock, you'll need to bend the top of the wire hanger into a hook, then place it in the space between the door and the window (or the weather stripping) until it reaches the locking switch or lever.
4. Air Wedge
Air wedges, like this one from HPC are a popular tool used by repo professionals and locksmiths to create working room around the frame of the car window to facilitate entry of tools. They also provide a great way to prevent damaging your vehicle if you aren't able to access it using the key.
A wedge of air pumps works by sliding between the door and the door's weather stripping into an area where the correct pressure is applied. Then, a manual hand pump is used to blow up the bag until it separates the vehicle door from the window of the vehicle and opens 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 door without a key.
A good air wedge should have a stiffener that prevents it from collapsing when it's pumped up and an escape valve to stop over-inflation. It will also come with a heavy-duty vinyl bag that is not marring and built to last for many times. These wedges work best when they are used in conjunction with a picker or long reach car door unlocking tool which can be inserted into the wedge to assist move the lock.
This method is not recommended for opening the car door by a person. This could damage the vehicle and need costly repairs at the body shop. It is also not a secure method to unlock your car if you have locked your keys inside.
It is recommended to call a professional roadside service for assistance if stranded. They will send a technician who is skilled and knowledgeable with the correct tools to open the vehicle door without damaging it. They can assist with battery replacement and towing among other things.
5. Rod
A rod is a long, thin, metal piece, usually cylindrical or tapered. It is a support for another object. It can be used in cars to create a gap so you can access the keys and unlock the doors. It isn't easy to master this technique, but it is worth a shot. If you're lucky this method could be successful.
If you're not confident trying to open your own car You could ask a friend to help you. You can also hire a locksmith. You can locate one near you by checking the internet or phone book. Another option is to sign up for an AAA membership, which comes with roadside assistance. This service will send someone to your location quickly and let them unlock your car without difficulties.
Many newer cars have security features that prevent people from breaking into them without a key. Older models, however, are easier to break into. You can open these vehicles with a coat hanger or a rod. To do this, cut off the coat hanger at its hook and bend the straight side to form the shape of a hook. The hook should be slipped behind the weather strip and into the door slit to create a gap. Then, you can insert the rod and move it to depress or move the door lock switch.
Some automakers offer smartphone apps to help you unlock your car if you are locked out. BMW and Hyundai, for example, offer lockout apps that allow you to unlock your vehicle using the smartphone screen. Other automakers, including General Motors, have an OnStar program that can assist you unlock your car if it's locked out. You'll need an iPhone 11 or newer or Apple Watch Series 5 with the latest version watchOS, and be within Bluetooth range.