Last Updated on February 11, 2025 by Alan Weir
How to Avoid Damaging Your Car During a Lockout
Oh no—not again! You’ve locked your keys inside your car, and as panic sets in, you might consider your options. The last thing you want is to damage your beloved vehicle while attempting a DIY rescue. As an experienced car locksmith, I’ve seen it all, and I’m here to guide you through how to effectively and safely handle a lockout situation without wreaking havoc on your car.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First things first—take a deep breath. You’re not the first person to find yourself in this pickle, and you certainly won’t be the last. It’s easy to let frustration get the better of you, but panicking can lead to hasty decisions that could damage your vehicle.
Start by conducting a quick assessment of the situation:
- Check all doors: Sometimes, in the chaos, we forget that another door might be unlocked. Have a thorough check.
- Look for a spare key: If you have a family member or a friend nearby, see if they can bring you a spare key.
If you don’t have a backup or an easy solution, focus on getting into your car safely.
Understanding Your Car’s Locks
Before attempting any DIY methods, it’s essential to understand how your car’s locks work. Most cars today have electronic locking systems, which can be more sensitive than traditional mechanical locks. For example, forcing a slim jim—a tool often favoured in older models—could damage electronic components, which can be highly costly. If you’re curious about different types of car locks, you can check out more info here.
The No-Go Zones: What NOT to Do
1. Avoid Using Improvised Tools
Look, I get it—sometimes the temptation to use whatever tool is lying around is strong. Paper clips, wire hangers, and screwdrivers seem like valid alternatives when you’re in a hurry. However, these makeshift tools can easily slip, scratch your car’s interior or exterior, or even break off inside the lock. If you’re serious about preserving your car’s integrity, do yourself a favour and steer clear of these gadgets.
2. Resist the Urge to Pry Open the Door
It might seem appealing to slide a flat object between the door and the frame to pop it open, but this is a guaranteed recipe for disaster. Not only does it risk damaging the weather stripping around your windows and doors, but it also increases the likelihood of misaligning the door itself. In many cases, you’ll create a gap that could let in the rain, snow, or dirt, which can lead to further issues down the line. You can learn more about car door mechanics here.
Safe DIY Methods: If You Must
If you’re determined to give the DIY approach a shot, there are some techniques that are far less destructive than others—though I still strongly recommend calling a professional whenever possible.
1. The Wedge Method
Using a plastic wedge, you can create a small gap between the door and the car frame. It’s vital to use a plastic tool rather than a metal one, as metal can damage the car’s paint or bend the frame. Gently tap the wedge in place and utilise a long, thin rod or wire to reach for the unlock button. This method works best for older models but can still lead to unwanted damage if you’re not careful.
2. The Shoelace Trick
Only for those with manual locks! If you’re fortunate enough to have an older model with a pull-up door lock, you could actually use a shoelace to unlock it. Simply create a small loop in the shoelace and gently work it through the crack of the door, aiming for the lock. If you can grab the lock mechanism, pull it up and Voilà! Your door is unlocked. But again, this may not work on newer electronic locks, and it requires a lot of patience and skill.
Consider Calling a Professional
In many cases, the smartest decision is to enlist the help of a professional locksmith. You might think you’re saving time and money by trying to handle the situation yourself, but the true cost of an amateur approach can quickly add up if you accidentally break something. Professional locksmiths like us at RevLock have the tools and expertise needed to open your vehicle without inflicting any harm.
When to Make the Call
- If the lock mechanism feels jammed
- If your vehicle has electronic locks
- If you find yourself getting frustrated or feeling like you might do something rash
A locksmith can often arrive at a location much faster than you’d expect. On top of that, they can save you a lot of hassle in the long run by ensuring your car remains damage-free.
Precautionary Measures: Preventing Future Lockouts
While it might feel helpless to deal with a lockout in the moment, there are steps you can take moving forward to avoid finding yourself in this situation again.
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Spare Key Strategy: Consider a spare key holder that you can install in your property (with a trusted neighbour or friend). Alternatively, invest in a smart key fob that allows for remote locking and unlocking from your phone.
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Key Locators: A simple key locator can help you keep track of your keys. With these handy gadgets, you’ll be less likely to misplace them in the future.
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Routine Checks: Every couple of weeks, make it a habit to check your keys and spare keys. If they’re in an envelope, a designated pocket, or maybe even on a hook, ensuring they are always in the same place can save you lots of frustration.
- Stay Updated: Often, the latest vehicles have advanced features that can help in the event of a lockout. Follow industry updates so you can know your options.
If you ever find yourself locked out of your car, take a deep breath and remember that while it’s frustrating, it doesn’t have to end in disaster. By knowing what not to do, selecting safer tactics, and calling in the experts when necessary, you can navigate this tricky situation without harming your vehicle.
Alan Weir – Master Locksmith with 30+ Years of Experience
Alan Weir is the founder of Weir Locksmiths and a Master Locksmith with over three decades of experience. Renowned for his expertise in home and automotive security, Alan has built a reputation for providing reliable and innovative locksmith solutions across the UK.
A certified member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), Alan specialises in residential, commercial and automotive locksmith services including car key replacement, transponder programming, and advanced security systems. His dedication to the field has earned him thousands of satisfied customers and glowing reviews on platforms like Checkatrade.
Now contributing to RevLock, Alan shares his expert knowledge to all of RevLocks visitors.
