What NOT to Do With a Car Lockout
In a moment, we'll look at some clever ways to be proactive about car lockout situations, and even how to avoid them. Before that, though, we need to look at some of the things our customers have done in the past, and explain why these are not wise steps to take.
Jimmy, jam or bump the lock - These are steps that will usually end up ruining the lock (meaning you now have to pay to have new locks, new keys and maybe even a new ignition cylinder). They will also run the risk of harming the door, leading to a much more expensive repair. This is particularly true if you ram a shim or jimmy between the glass and the door as it might interfere with other systems, too. Also, keep in mind that most modern car locks cannot be bumped the way that door locks can, and so you should never try this approach.
Call numerous locksmiths - Also, please never call two or more emergency locksmith services in order to get at least one there quickly. This means you now have multiple mobile locksmiths heading to your area, but it also means that only one gets the job. This is unfair to the 24-hour locksmith services, and some will actually demand payment for the call.
Breaking in - Please, whatever you do, never try to break into your car. Whether you attempt open a window force or pry open the door or lock, you run the risk of pretty severe injury to yourself, damage to the vehicle, and major problems with your auto insurance provider. Also, please never try to squeeze into spaces not meant for people to pass, small side windows or the rear windows in pickup trucks are not really sized for an adult, and you may get injured or stuck, and then face more expenses. And while the Internet says that entering through the trunk is a good idea…it isn't.
Instead of panicking when this sometimes unavoidable blunder occurs, just be a bit proactive. You've already started by reading this. Make sure you have our name, contact information and other details available (either by entering it into your phone or making note of our business name and using it if you need to get in touch with a reliable provider during a car lockout). Even if you don't have a phone and find yourself knocking on a stranger's door to get some help, knowing a trustworthy and experienced car locksmith's name will give you peace of mind.
