Why Unlock Your Car Is More Difficult Than You Imagine

Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces

Many vehicles now have heightened security features. However, older models typically still have post locks which can be opened by some simple methods.

Some car manufacturers offer mobile applications that let you unlock your car. You can ask your automaker if this feature is available to you.

1. Shoelaces

Shoelaces may not be the best tool to use when you're locked out of your car but they can be very helpful if you know how to use them. If your car has a locking tab that can be moved vertically, often near the window, you can open it with a pair shoelaces.

Then, tie a slip knot through the middle of two shoelaces. Join both ends and form a loop 3/4 of the way along the shoelaces. Then, you can slide the knot down into the crack between your car door and its frame and adjust the shoelace until it connects to the lock mechanism. This may require a time and trial but once the shoelace is secured then simply pull it upwards on both ends to open your vehicle.

The most important thing to keep in mind when using this method is to do it slowly and be sure not to scratch or damage your car in the process. If you are able to successfully employ this method to unlock car service your car, it could reduce the expense of an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service and get you back on track in just a few minutes.

While this is a fantastic alternative to other abrasive methods, like using a coat hanger (which can scratch your car) however, it may not always work, particularly on more sophisticated models of vehicles. If the locking mechanism of your vehicle doesn't respond to this method, a long wooden rod or a screwdriver may be required to break the lock open.

2. Coat Hanger

Being locked out of your vehicle is among the most frustrating events that can happen in the present. Many people have seen their parents or uncles use a coat hanger to open the car door when they were children, but this method can be a little risky and may not work with all vehicles. The use of coat hangers to open a car door can harm the door's frame and in certain states, it is illegal.

A simple coat hanger made of wire can be used to unlock a car by slipping it into the space between your door and the door frame. Place the coat hanger in the gap between the frame and the door. Bend it into a small V shape to ensure it is secure against the lock. Then, pull upwards on the hanger to loosen the bar or pin that controls the door lock. You may have to move the hook back and forth a few times before you find something that causes the lock to move, but it should not require a lot of effort to raise the bar.

If you are unable to get the coat hanger hook to release the control arm you can try placing it between the window and the weather stripping. You may have to look around using the hook end of the coat hanger to locate the area however once you've located it, you are able to move the hanger until you hear your door open. This method isn't safe however, it could be a reliable method to gain access to your vehicle with no key or professional assistance. If this doesn't work, you can always contact a roadside assistance company or locksmith to get help.

3. Wooden Wedge

A quick slip of the fingers or a bit of negligence can leave you without your keys in a flash. If you don't want to wait for AAA roadside assistance, or a locksmith to arrive at your home you'll need an immediate method of unlocking your vehicle.

You can use anything that can open an opening between your frame and door. For example, you can use a screwdriver, tennis-ball, or coat hanger. You may need to squirt air into the gap to make it wide enough for you to insert your tool and hit 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 some other tool. It's best to use a tool which won't scratch your paint or aluminum trim. Inflatable wedges are ideal for this job and are available in a variety of sizes that fit all doors.

Another alternative is to use the length of a plastic strip folded in half, such as a grocery bag. Place the strip inside the door that has been pried open, and, once it's to the lock, loop it around the lock knob and pull upward. This method is a bit messy, but it's faster than a coat hanger or a screwdriver that can be difficult to control.

If you're a more recent model car owner, it's likely the lock mechanism isn't located in the traditional handle that is located on the outside of the vehicle but is instead located at the top of the window near the weather stripping. To unlock a car with this kind of lock, you will need bend the wire hanger's tip into a hook. Then, 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, like this one from HPC are a popular tool used by repo professionals and locksmiths to make room around the car window frame for easier entry into tools. They also serve as an excellent method to avoid damaging the vehicle while gaining entry without 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 manual hand pump is used to inflate the bag so that it separates the door of the vehicle from the vehicle's window and opens enough to accommodate a car unlocking tool. This enables you to unlock a door without a key by breaking the lock mechanism manually.

A high-quality air wedge will have a stiffener to keep the wedge from collapsing, and an exit vent to stop over-inflation. It will also have a durable, non-marring vinyl bag designed for dozens of uses. These wedges work best when paired with a picker or long reach car door unlocking tool that can be inserted into the wedge to move the lock.

It's important to note that a person shouldn't attempt this method to open the door of their car. This could cause damage to the vehicle that would require expensive repairs at a body shop. In addition, this is not an appropriate method to gain entry into your vehicle in the event that you've locked your keys inside.

It is suggested that people who are stranded in their car call an experienced roadside assistance service to seek assistance. These services will send a technician trained and experienced with the correct tools to open your car door without causing damage to it. They can also assist with towing, battery replacement and more.

5. Rod

A rod is a long piece of metal, typically tapered or cylindrical, that supports something else. It can be used in cars to create a gap so that you can reach the keys and open the doors. This method isn't easy to master however it's worth a shot. If you're lucky, it may work.

If you're not comfortable opening your car opening on your own, you can ask a friend to help you. You can also hire an auto locksmith. You can find locksmiths near you by using the phone book or online. Another option is to get an AAA membership, which provides roadside assistance. This service will send someone to your home or office within a short time and allow them unlock your car without any difficulties.

Many modern vehicles come with security features to prevent people from breaking in without keys. Older models, g28Carkeys however are easier to break into. To unlock these vehicles, you need to use a coat hanger or rod. To accomplish this, you will need to cut the coathanger at the hook and bend the straight end to form a hook. To create an opening to slide the hook behind the weather strip into the slit in the door. Inject the rod, and then move it until you can depress the door lock switch, or slide it.

Some automakers offer smartphones with apps that can help you unlock your car if you're locked out. BMW and Hyundai, for example, offer lockout apps that 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 car is locked out. To access these apps, you'll need an iPhone 11 or later or Apple Watch Series 5 or later with the latest version of watchOS and be within Bluetooth range of your car compatible with Bluetooth.