A car lockout is never enjoyable, but some situations can seem worse than others. The following are common lockout scenarios, along with your options for remedying the problem.
Scenario #1: The Keys Are in the Car
If your car is running and the keys are locked inside, there are several concerns. First and foremost, if the car is idling in a closed area, such as your garage, open the garage door at least partially to vent the carbon monoxide. Going into your home is not enough, since the carbon monoxide can seep into your house and pose a real danger.
In a public area, the most important safety concern is to stay with your vehicle so it is not stolen by someone willing to break out a window. If you do not feel safe staying with the vehicle, call the police on the non-emergency number or contact security services for the location, if available.
If the car isn't running, use your best judgement on whether or not to wait with your car. If the keys aren't visible, the car may be safe to leave.
After handling these issues, it is time to get into your car. If you have a spare key, you can contact someone to bring it to you. Otherwise, call either your roadside service or a locksmith to open the door for you so you can retrieve your keys. Make sure to let them know the car is running so they can prioritize your call.
Scenario #2: You Don't Have the Keys
Even more stressful than a regular lockout is being locked out of the car because you have lost your keys. If you have a spare somewhere, the best option is to notify someone that can bring the spare key to you and to work on finding your original keys later.
For those with no spare, your options become more complicated. For older cars that do not have chipped keys, a locksmith can let you into the car and may even be able to make you a new key, although you will have to prove ownership of the vehicle with registration documents.
For chipped keys, a locksmith can let you in and possibly make you a door key, but getting a new ignition key can be more complicated. In some cases, a locksmith can make a chipped key if they have the proper blank, but in other cases, the key will need to be ordered through a manufacturer's dealership. A keyless ignition fob is even more challenging, as you will likely need to order a new fob through the dealership. For these reasons, it's always a good idea to have a spare made before you need it, as that will save you time and money in case you ever lose your keys.
Contact a locksmith for more help.
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