How can I unlock my car if the keys are inside?

In most cases, you can regain entry safely by using a remote unlock via a mobile app, a spare key, or roadside assistance. If a child or pet is inside the car, call emergency services immediately. Breaking a window is generally discouraged due to safety, legal, and cost concerns.

Locked-out scenarios can vary by vehicle and situation. This guide outlines legitimate options, safety considerations, and steps to prevent future lockouts, with practical advice for drivers across different car makes and ages.

Immediate, legitimate options to regain entry

Here's a quick guide to the most common, safe options you can pursue to regain entry without damaging the vehicle.

• Use your car’s mobile app remote unlock. Many modern vehicles let you unlock doors, start the engine, or locate the car from a connected app (for example, OEM apps like GM’s OnStar, FordPass, Hyundai Digital Key, Toyota, etc.). Ensure the feature is activated and that your vehicle is connected to the internet; response times can vary by service and network coverage.


• Retrieve a spare key from a trusted person or location. If someone you trust has a spare, you can arrange a quick handoff or meet them to minimize delays. Keep spare keys in a secure, non-public place to reduce lockout risk.


• Call roadside assistance or your vehiclemaker’s roadside program. Services such as AAA or manufacturer-specific recovery plans commonly offer lockout assistance. Fees and response times vary by provider, membership type, and location, but this is often the fastest legitimate option.


• Contact a licensed locksmith who specializes in automotive locks. Reputable locksmiths can unlock a vehicle with minimal risk when you can prove ownership (photo ID, vehicle registration, insurance). They may also help with key programming if needed, but costs vary widely.


• Use the physical key blade if your fob includes one. Some key fobs house a hidden mechanical key that can unlock the driver’s door or trunk. Look for a small release or button to slide out the key blade, and consult your owner’s manual for the exact location and procedure.

In practice, remote unlock via an app or a spare key is usually the fastest route. If those options aren’t available, a professional locksmith or roadside service serves as a reliable fallback. Costs and wait times depend on location and provider, so compare options when possible.

Emergency scenarios and safety considerations

When a child or pet is locked inside a vehicle, safety is paramount. Follow these steps to ensure a rapid, safe response.

• Call emergency services immediately if someone is in distress or if the vehicle is in a dangerous situation (extreme heat or cold). Provide your location, the vehicle’s make/model, and the number of occupants.


• Do not attempt to break a window as a first resort. DIY window-breaking can cause injury and expensive damage, and in many places it could be unlawful. Professionals with the right tools are often faster and safer.


• If possible, contact roadside assistance or the vehicle manufacturer’s emergency line. They can guide you and dispatch help as needed.


• Move to a safe location if you can, and keep doors locked when not actively attending to the situation. Do not leave an engine running unattended in public or hazardous areas unless advised by a trained responder.


• Have identifying information ready for responders and service providers (license, vehicle registration, proof of ownership).

Emergency situations require swift action and professional support. Rely on trained responders and legitimate services to minimize risk and ensure everyone's safety.

Prevention and planning to reduce future lockouts

Preventive steps can save time and reduce stress when you’re in a hurry or away from home.

• Distribute and manage spare keys responsibly. Give a spare to a trusted family member or friend, or keep one in a secure, non-public location where you consistently know it’s available.


• Enable and test remote unlock/digital key features. If your vehicle supports digital keys or mobile unlock, set it up and verify it works before you actually need it.


• Regularly check your key fob battery and carry a backup. A dead fob battery is a common cause of lockouts; having a fresh battery or a secondary fob helps prevent it.


• Know your vehicle’s manual lockout options. Some cars offer a mechanical key, hidden keyhole, or trunk access you can use when the fob is unavailable.


• Keep essential contact information handy. Save roadside assistance numbers, dealership contacts, and emergency services in your phone for quick access.

Proactive planning—spare keys, digital access, and regular checks—reduces the likelihood of a stressful lockout and speeds up resolution when one does occur.

Summary

Being locked out of your car is a common, solvable situation. Your fastest options typically include a remote unlock via a connected app, a spare key, or roadside assistance. In emergencies involving children or pets, prioritize safety and contact emergency services. If those quick options aren’t available, a licensed locksmith is a reliable fallback. Prevention—spares, digital keys, and regular fob maintenance—helps you avoid lockouts in the future.

How to unlock a door when the keys are inside?

Solutions when you are locked out

1. Opening the door through the mailbox.
2. Using a pass to get the door open.
3. Using a drill and a screwdriver to open the door.
4. Opening the door with a pin.
5. Opening the door with a screwdriver.
6. Opening door with the hard hand.
7. Climbing to open the door.
8. Opening the door with a spare key.

Will police unlock your car for free?

Whether police will unlock your car for free depends on the department and the situation, as it is not a guaranteed service and often reserved for emergencies. In non-emergency situations, some departments will attempt to help for free and may have a waiver of liability, while others may not offer the service at all or will refer you to a locksmith or tow service that you will have to pay for. 
This video explains whether police will unlock your car for free and the different scenarios: 1mCounty Office LawYouTube · Jan 8, 2025
When police may help for free

• Emergencies: Police are most likely to assist if there is an emergency, such as a child, pet, or vulnerable adult locked inside. 
• Specific departments: Some police departments offer this service to the public as a courtesy and will have the necessary tools. You may be required to sign a waiver of liability before the officer attempts to unlock the car. 
• Call the non-emergency line: For non-emergencies, it's best to call the non-emergency police number. Be prepared to provide your location and vehicle information. 

When police may not help

• Non-emergencies: Many police departments consider this service a low priority or a liability risk and will not provide it. 
• Lack of resources or policy: Some departments have stopped offering this service due to liability concerns or a lack of tools and training. 
• You will be referred to a paid service: In many cases, if the situation is not an emergency, the police will refer you to a private locksmith or tow company, and you will be responsible for any associated costs. 

This video explains what to do when you lock your keys in the car: 57sCounty Office LawYouTube · Mar 4, 2025
What to do instead

• Call a locksmith: If the police cannot help, or if you prefer not to call them, a locksmith is a reliable option. Costs can vary, but they specialize in unlocking cars. 
• Use a roadside assistance service: If you have a membership with a service like AAA, you may be entitled to a free lockout service. 
• Check your insurance or credit card: Some insurance policies and credit cards offer roadside assistance that may cover lockouts. 

How to open car window when keys are locked in?

Being. Now cut another five or six lengths and stick them across the ones you've already stuck. So that they hold. Fast once everything's ready hold the tail you made previously.

How to open a car if the key is locked inside?

Call a Professional Locksmith or Roadside Assistance!
When you find yourself locked out of your car, it's best to call a reputable locksmith who can help you regain entry. Professional locksmiths have the right tools and knowledge necessary for unlocking cars and retrieving keys from inside.