Why Adding A Unlock Your Car To Your Life's Routine Will Make The Difference
Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces
Many vehicles are now equipped with advanced security features. Older models still often have post locks which can be opened with simple techniques.
Some car makers also have mobile apps that can unlock your car. Check with your automaker to find out if they have this service available for you.
1. Shoelaces
Shoelaces may not be the best option when you're locked out of your vehicle, but they can actually be quite helpful when you know what to do. If your car has a locking tab that moves vertically, typically near the window, you can unlock it with a pair shoelaces.
Then, tie a slip knot in the middle of two shoelaces. Bring both ends together and create a loop 3/4 of the way across the combined shoelaces. Now, slide the resulting knot down into the crack between your car's door and its frame and maneuver the shoelace so that it connects to the lock mechanism. It could require some trial and trial and error to get the shoelace connected. Once it's hooked you're done, pull both ends up to unlock your car.
The most important thing to keep in mind when using this method is to work slowly and be careful not to scratch or damage your car in the process. If you are able to successfully apply this method to open your car, it can save you the expense of roadside assistance or a locksmith service and get you back on the road in a fraction of the time.
This is a great alternative to more abrasive methods, such as using a hanger, which could scratch your vehicle. However, it may not always work, particularly on more advanced models. If the locking system of your vehicle does not respond, you could need to use the screwdriver or long wooden bar to open it open.
2. Coat Hanger
Being locked out of your car is one of the most stressful experiences of our modern lives. Many people may have witnessed their father or uncle use a coat hanger to open the car door when they were younger, but this method can be a bit dangerous and may not work for all vehicles. The use of a coat hanger to open a car door can damage the door frame, and in certain states, it is illegal.
You can unlock your car with a simple wire coathanger by sliding it between the door and door frame. Slide the hanger into the gap, and then bend it into a small "V" shape to ensure that it has a good grip on the lock post. Pull the hanger up and you'll be able to let go of the pin which controls the lock. You may need to move the hook around a few times before you spot something that moves the lock but it shouldn't take much effort to lift the bar.
If you're unable to get the hook of the coat hanger to release the control arm, you can put it in between the window and the weather stripping. You may need to feel around using the hook of the coat hanger to locate the area however once you've found it, you can play around with the hanger until you hear your door lock. This technique isn't without risk however it can be a great method to gain access to your vehicle without having to seek professional assistance or keys. If this doesn't work you can always call a roadside assistance business or locksmith to get help.
3. Wooden Wedge
You can lose your keys quickly if you make a mistake or are reckless. If you don't have the means to contact AAA roadside assistance or a locksmith, you'll need something quick to open your car.
You can make use of just about anything that can wedge open an opening between your frame and door, like coat hangers, a tennis ball, or even the screwdriver. You may need to inject air into the gap to allow it to be wide enough to allow your tool to slide in and reach the lock button, however, be sure not to scratch your car.
When they lock their keys in their cars, many people will reach for a pair of pliers or a different tool. But, it's better to choose a tool that won't scratch your paint or aluminum trim. Inflatable wedges are perfect for this purpose, and come in a variety of sizes to fit most doors.
Another alternative is to make use of an extended strip of plastic folded in half, such as grocery bags. Place the strip inside the door that you have opened and, when it reaches the lock then wrap it around the knob and pull it upwards. This method is a bit messy but it's a lot quicker than the coat hanger or screwdriver, which can be difficult to control.
If you're a newer model car owner, it's likely that the lock mechanism isn't located in a traditional handle at the exterior of the car but instead is located on the top of the window, near the weather stripping. To unlock a car using this type of lock, you'll need bend the top of an old wire hanger into a hook and slide it into the space between the door and the window (or the weather stripping) until it reaches the lever or locking switch.
4. Air Wedge
Air wedges, like this one from HPC are a popular tool for repo professionals and locksmiths to provide working space around the window frame of the car 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 a key.
An air pump wedge works by sliding between the door and the weather stripping of the door into a position where proper pressure is applied. Then, a hand pump is used to inflate the bag to the point that it separates the door of the vehicle from the vehicle window and makes an opening wide enough for inserting a car-unlocking tool. This allows you to break the lock mechanism manually and unlock a car door without the need for a key.
A good air wedge will include an elasticizer that stops it from collapsing when it's pumped up and a release valve to prevent over-inflation. It also comes with a durable vinyl bag that isn't marring and built to last several times. The wedges are best coupled with a picker, or a long reach tool for unlocking doors in cars which can be inserted into the wedge to assist to manipulate the lock.
This method is not recommended for opening the car door by someone else. It could damage the car, which would require costly repairs at the body shop. Additionally, this is not an ideal method of getting into your vehicle in the event that you've locked your keys inside.
It is suggested to contact a professional roadside service to help you if you're stranded. These services will send a technician who is well-trained and has the right tools to open the car door without causing damage to it. These experts can assist with battery replacement and towing among other things.
5. Rod
A rod is a long, thin metal piece that is typically circular or tapered. It is used to support another object. In the car, it could be used to make an opening through which you can access your keys and then open the door. This method can be difficult to use, but it's worth a try. If you're fortunate this method could work.
If you aren't comfortable opening your car yourself, you can ask someone else to do it. You can also hire locksmith. You can find one near you by checking the internet or phone book. You can also sign up for an AAA membership that comes with roadside assistance. This service will send someone to your location soon, and you can have them unlock your car without difficulties.
Many modern cars come with security features that stop people from breaking into them without a key. Older models, however, are easier to break into. To unlock these vehicles, you need to use a coat hanger or a rod. To do this, you must separate the coat hanger at its hook and bend its straight side to form hook. To create an opening to slide the hook behind the weather strip into the slit in the door. Then, you can insert the rod and move it to press or move the door lock switch.
Some automakers also provide smartphone apps that can help you if you're locked out of your car. For car door opening service , BMW and Hyundai offer the lockout app that lets you to unlock your car with the smartphone screen. OnStar is a program provided by other automakers, such as General Motors that can assist you if your car is locked out. You'll need to have an iPhone 11 or newer or Apple Watch Series 5 with the latest version watchOS, and be within Bluetooth range.