Locked Out of Your Car? Here's What NOT to Do

Getting locked out of your car is frustrating. You're late for work, your phone is dying, and you just want to get back inside. But before you try to DIY your way back in, understand that most "quick fixes" you find online can cause expensive damage to your vehicle. Here's what you should never do—and what you should do instead.

Mistake #1: Using a Coat Hanger on Modern Vehicles

This is the classic movie scene that everyone thinks will work. Spoiler alert: it won't, and you'll probably cause damage.

Why it doesn't work on modern cars:

Most vehicles made after 2000 have side-impact airbags in the door panels

Weather stripping is tighter and harder to bypass

Modern locking mechanisms are positioned differently

Electronic locks don't respond to mechanical manipulation

Potential damage:

Torn weather stripping ($200-400 to replace)

Scratched window glass (up to $500 per window)

Damaged door mechanisms ($300-1,000)

Triggered airbag sensors (thousands in repairs)

Even if you have an older vehicle where this might theoretically work, the risk of damage far exceeds the cost of calling a professional.

Mistake #2: Trying to Pry the Door Open

Some online guides suggest using a screwdriver, pry bar, or similar tool to create a gap in the door. This is one of the worst things you can do.

The damage you'll cause:

Bent door frames that never seal properly again

Cracked or chipped paint leading to rust

Broken door locks requiring full replacement

Compromised structural integrity affecting safety ratings

Voided warranty (if your vehicle is still covered)

Professional locksmiths use specialized inflatable wedges that create space without bending metal or damaging paint. These tools cost hundreds of dollars for a reason—they prevent damage.

Mistake #3: Breaking Your Own Window

"I'll just break the small triangle window—it's cheaper to replace." We hear this all the time, and it's almost never a good idea.

Reality check on costs:

"Cheap" windows often cost $200-400 to replace

Some triangle windows are more expensive than door windows

You'll pay for installation ($100-200)

You're driving with an open window until you can get it fixed

Thieves target vehicles with broken windows

Additional problems:

Glass shards in your vehicle

Potential injury during the break

Water damage if it rains

Security risk until repaired

The only time breaking a window makes sense is if there's an emergency (child or pet trapped in hot weather), and even then, there are better tools designed for emergency window breaking.

Mistake #4: Using "Lockout Kits" from Amazon

You've seen the ads: "Professional locksmith tools—unlock any car!" These kits are marketed to consumers but are designed for professionals with training.

Why they fail in untrained hands:

Modern vehicles have anti-theft systems that detect manipulation

You can trigger the alarm system

You might damage internal lock components

Many luxury vehicles will enter security lockdown mode

You could permanently disable your key fob's ability to communicate with your car

Insurance adjusters regularly see claims where amateur lockout attempts caused more damage than the original problem. Some vehicles require complete computer reprogramming after failed lockout attempts—a repair that can exceed $1,000.

Mistake #5: Calling the First Locksmith You Find Online

Not all locksmiths are created equal, and lockout emergencies attract scammers. Many unlicensed "locksmiths" quote low prices over the phone, then jack up the price after arriving.

Red flags to watch for:

No physical business address

Unmarked vehicles

Can't provide credentials or license numbers

Dramatically different prices after arrival

High-pressure tactics

Insist on cash-only payment

Maryland requires locksmiths to be licensed. Always verify credentials before allowing someone to work on your vehicle.

What You SHOULD Do Instead

When you're locked out of your car, follow these steps:

1. Stay Calm and Check All Doors

Before calling for help, verify all doors and the trunk are actually locked. It sounds obvious, but it's embarrassing how often people discover an unlocked door after calling a locksmith.

2. Check If You Have Roadside Assistance

Your car insurance, AAA membership, or vehicle warranty may include lockout service at no additional cost. Check your insurance card or policy documents.

3. Call a Licensed, Professional Locksmith

Contact a reputable automotive locksmith service like ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD. We provide:

Transparent pricing quoted upfront

Licensed and insured technicians

Damage-free entry techniques

20-minute average response time in Maryland

Key cutting and programming on-site

4. Have Your Information Ready

When you call, have this information available:

Your exact location

Vehicle make, model, and year

Type of key (traditional, transponder, smart key)

Whether keys are visible inside

5. Stay With Your Vehicle

Don't leave your locked car unattended. If you must leave (for safety reasons), make sure the dispatcher knows.

Prevention Tips

Get a spare key made: Modern keys with chips and programming cost $150-300 to duplicate, but that's cheaper than emergency lockout service.

Consider a hide-a-key: Magnetic key boxes placed in non-obvious locations can save the day. Never put them inside wheel wells (first place thieves check).

Use your phone's wallet: Many newer vehicles support phone-based unlocking through apps.

Keep locksmith contact info saved: Program our number before you need it: (410) 590-9844.

When You Need Professional Help

ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD provides 24/7 automotive lockout service throughout Maryland. We'll get you back in your vehicle quickly, safely, and without damage.

Our services include:

Emergency car lockout service

Transponder key programming

Ignition repair and replacement

Key extraction (broken keys)

High-security vehicle access

Available throughout Maryland: Glen Burnie, Crofton, Baltimore, and all surrounding areas.

Don't risk damaging your vehicle with DIY methods. Call the professionals: (410) 590-9844