5 Unlock Your Car Projects That Work For Any Budget

Unlock Your Car With Shoelaces

Many cars are now fitted with security features that are more advanced. However, older models usually still have locks on the post that can be opened using some simple methods.

Some car manufacturers offer mobile apps to unlock your vehicle. Check with your automaker if this feature is available to you.

1. Shoelaces

Shoes may not be the most effective tool to use when you're locked out of your car, but they can actually be quite helpful if you know how to open the door without key to use them. If your vehicle has an opening tab that slides up and down vertically, typically near the window, you can unlock it using a pair of shoelaces.

First, take the shoelaces from the pair of shoes that you're not wearing and tie a slip knot through the middle of the shoelaces and bring both ends together to form a loop approximately 3/4 of the length of the shoelaces. Then, pull the knot down into the crack between your car door and its frame. Then, move the shoelace in a way that it hooks around the lock mechanism. This can take a little time and trial but once the shoelace is secured, simply pull up on both ends to open your vehicle.

When using this method the most important thing to keep in mind is to be careful to not scratch or damage your vehicle. You can save money by employing this method instead of calling a locksmith or roadside assistance.

This method is a great alternative to more abrasive methods, such hanging a hanger which could scratch your vehicle. However, it might not always work, especially on more advanced models. If your car's locking mechanism does not respond to this method then a long wooden rod or a screwdriver might be required to break the lock open.

2. Coat Hanger

Being locked out of your car is among the most stressful experiences of the modern world. Many people have witnessed their parents or uncles use coat hangers to open a car door when they were kids however, this is risky and not work for all vehicles. Utilizing a hanger for opening your car can damage the door's frame, and is illegal in certain states.

You can unlock your car using an easy wire coathanger by sliding it between the door and the frame. Slide the hanger down into the gap, and then bend it into an elongated "V" shape to ensure that it gets a good grip on the post of the lock. Then, pull upwards on the hanger to release the pin or bar that controls the door lock. It is possible to move the hook around a few times before you spot something that can move the lock but it shouldn't take too much effort to raise the bar.

If you cannot get the hook of your coat to release the control arm you might try placing it between the window and the weather stripping. You may need to feel around using the hook of the hanger to locate this spot and once you've located it, you are able to play around with the hanger until you hear your door open. This technique isn't without risk however, it could be a great method to gain entry into your vehicle without the need for professional assistance or a key. If this method doesn't work, you should contact a locksmith or a roadside service to seek assistance.

3. Wooden Wedge

You could lose your keys quickly if you erroneously or are reckless. If you don't have the ability to contact AAA roadside assistance or a locksmith, you'll need something quick to open your car.

You can make use of anything that can open up a gap between your door and frame. For instance you could use a screwdriver, tennis-ball, or coathanger. You may have to squirt air into the gap to get it wide enough to allow your tool to fit through and reach the lock. Be careful not to scratch the car.

Many people use a pair of pliers or other tools whenever they lock their keys in their cars however, it's better to use tools that won't scratch or scratch your aluminum trim or paint. Inflatable wedges work well for this purpose, and are available in a variety of sizes that fit into the majority of doors.

A long strip of plastic, folded in half like a grocery bag, is another alternative. Slide the strip inside the door that you have opened and, when it's at the lock, wrap it around the knob and pull it upward. This method is a bit messy but it's a lot quicker than hanging a coat or using a screwdriver, which can be difficult to control.

If you own a brand newer car the lock mechanism might not be in the traditional handle on the outside, but in the middle of your window, right next to the weather seal. To unlock a car with this type of lock, you'll need to bend the wire hanger tip into hook. Place it in the gap between the door and window (or weather stripping) until it is at the locking lever or switch.

4. Air Wedge

Professionals in the field of locksmiths and repo use air wedges like this one by HPC to make more room around the window frame of the car so that they can enter tools with ease. They also serve as an effective method to avoid damage to the vehicle when trying to gain entry without a key.

The wedge of the air pump is inserted between the weather stripping and the door to provide the appropriate pressure. A hand pump manual is then used to inflate a bag that separates the door of the vehicle from its window, forming an opening big enough to accommodate a car unlocking tool. This makes it possible to unlock a vehicle door without using a key, by breaking the manual lock mechanism.

A good air wedge will include a stiffener to prevent it from bursting when pumped up, and a release valve to avoid over-inflation. It also comes with a heavy-duty, non-marring vinyl bag that is designed for dozens of uses. They are most effective when they are used in conjunction with a picker or long reach tool for unlocking doors in cars that can be inserted into the wedge to help to manipulate the lock.

This method is not recommended to open a car door by a person. This could cause damage to the vehicle that could require costly repairs at a bodyshop. This is not a secure method to unlock your car if you have locked your keys in.

It is recommended to contact an experienced roadside service for assistance if stranded. These services will send a technician who is well-trained and has the right tools to open the vehicle door without causing any damage. They can also assist with towing, battery replacement, and other issues.

5. Rod

A rod is a long piece of metal, usually tapered or cylindrical, that supports something else. In the car, it could be used to create a gap through which you can access your keys and open my car the door. This method isn't easy to use however it's worth a shot. If you're lucky it could work.

If you're not confident opening your vehicle You can ask a friend to do it for you. You can also employ a locksmith. You can find one near you by checking the internet or calling. You can also get an AAA membership that provides roadside assistance. This service will send someone to your location quickly and can open your vehicle without hassle.

Many newer cars have security features that prevent people from getting into them without a key. Older models are simpler to gain entry. You can open these vehicles by using a coathanger or rod. To accomplish this, you will need to separate the coathanger at the hook and bend the straight end to form hook. To create an opening, slide the hook behind the weather strip into the door slit. Then, insert the rod and move it until it is depressed or move the door lock switch.

Some automakers offer smartphones with apps that can help you unlock your car if you are locked out. For example, BMW and Hyundai offer an app for locking out that allows you to unlock your car using the smartphone's screen. OnStar is a service offered by other automakers like General Motors that can assist you if your vehicle is locked out. You'll need to have an iPhone 11 or newer or Apple Watch Series 5 with the most recent version watchOS, and be within Bluetooth range.