Locked Out of Your Car? Here's What to Do (And What to Avoid)

It happens to the best of us – you close the car door and realize your keys are still inside. Or maybe you lost your keys somewhere and can't find them. Whatever the cause, a car lockout is stressful. Here's how to handle it safely and efficiently.

First: Don't Panic

Take a deep breath. A car lockout isn't a crisis – it's an inconvenience with several solutions. Panicking leads to poor decisions that can make things worse.

Check All Entry Points

Before calling for help, check:

• All doors: Sometimes another door is unlocked
• Trunk: If you have a trunk release inside, the trunk might be unlocked
• Windows: A slightly open window might be enough (but don't break in!)
• Spare key: Do you have one hidden on the vehicle or with a nearby friend/family member?

What NOT to Do

Don't Break Your Window

Breaking a window might seem like a quick fix, but:

• Replacement costs $200-$400+ (often more than lockout service)
• You could injure yourself
• It won't help if your keys are in the ignition
• Your insurance may not cover self-inflicted damage

Don't Use DIY Tools

Those YouTube videos showing lockout tricks often:

• Damage your door, lock, or weather sealing
• Trigger the car alarm
• Don't work on modern vehicles with advanced security
• Could get you in trouble if someone thinks you're breaking in

Don't Leave Your Car Unattended in an Unsafe Location

If you're in a dangerous area, stay with your vehicle and call for help immediately.

Safe Solutions for Car Lockouts

Option 1: Call a Professional Lockout Service

The safest and most reliable option. Professional lockout services use specialized tools that won't damage your vehicle.

At Dolooma Towing, our technicians are trained in modern lockout techniques and carry professional-grade tools. We can get into most vehicles within minutes without causing damage.

Option 2: Call Your Dealership

If you have a newer car with connected services (OnStar, BMW Assist, etc.), they may be able to unlock your doors remotely.

Option 3: Roadside Assistance Coverage

Check if you have roadside assistance through:

• Your auto insurance policy
• AAA membership
• Credit card benefits
• Vehicle manufacturer warranty

Option 4: Spare Key Delivery

If you have a spare key at home and someone can bring it to you, this is the cheapest solution – but might take longer.

Special Situations

Child or Pet Locked in Car

This is an emergency. If a child or pet is locked in a vehicle, especially in warm weather:

• Call 911 immediately
• Don't wait for a locksmith
• Be prepared to break a window if necessary – their safety comes first

Keys Locked in Running Car

Modern vehicles often prevent this, but if it happens:

• Don't try to force anything while the engine is running
• Call for professional help
• The locksmith may need to use the ignition key, not a door tool

Keys Lost (Not Just Locked In)

If your keys are truly lost, you may need:

• A locksmith to create a new key
• Dealership key programming
• Towing to a shop that can help

How Professional Lockout Service Works

When you call Dolooma Towing for lockout service:

1. We arrive quickly – typically within 30-60 minutes
2. We verify ownership – for your security, we'll ask for ID
3. We use professional tools – air wedges, long-reach tools, and other non-damaging methods
4. We test the door – making sure everything works properly
5. You're back in business – usually within 5-10 minutes of our arrival

Preventing Future Lockouts

Once you're back in your car, take steps to prevent it from happening again:

• Hide a spare key – magnetic key boxes work well
• Give a spare to someone you trust – family member or neighbor
• Use a key finder – Tile, AirTag, or similar devices
• Develop a habit – always check for keys before closing the door
• Consider smart locks – some aftermarket systems offer keypad entry

24/7 Lockout Service in the Triangle

Dolooma Towing provides professional lockout service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week throughout Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, and the surrounding Triangle area.

Locked out? Call 1-877-47-PULSE – we'll have you back in your vehicle quickly and without damage.