Locked Your Keys in the Car? What to Do Next
You hear the door click shut and see your keys on the seat. It happens to almost everyone at some point, usually at the worst time. Here is what to do, calmly and safely.
Short answer: if a child, a pet or anyone vulnerable is locked inside, call 911 right away, especially in the Florida heat. Otherwise, check every door and the trunk, look for a spare key, and if that fails, call a lockout service. In Homestead, Miami-Dade and the Keys, call us at (305) 564-9190.
Is anyone or anything inside the car?
This comes first. A closed car in South Florida can heat up very quickly, even on a mild day. If a child, a pet or a person who cannot get out is inside, call 911 immediately. Emergency services can act faster than anyone else.
What should you check before calling for help?
- Try every door, including the rear doors and the hatch or trunk.
- Check whether any window is open even slightly.
- Think about a spare key: at home, with a family member, or in a key box.
- If your car has an app or a connected service, check whether it can unlock the doors remotely.
Should you try to open it yourself?
We understand the temptation, but coat hangers, screwdrivers and wedges can scratch paint, tear door seals or damage the wiring inside the door. Breaking a window is expensive and can leave glass in the car. A professional lockout service opens the door without damage.
What happens during a lockout service?
- You call and tell us where you are and what you drive.
- We confirm you are the owner or have permission to open the car, so please have your ID ready.
- We open the door with proper tools, without damage.
- You get your keys and get on with your day.
What if the keys are lost, not locked inside?
Then opening the door will not get the car started. You may need a new key from a dealer or an automotive locksmith. If the car needs to go somewhere to get a new key made, we can tow it there.
How can you avoid it next time?
- Keep a spare key somewhere safe, with someone you trust.
- Make a habit of keeping the keys in your hand until the door is closed.
- If your car locks itself automatically, check its settings.
- Save our number in your phone: (305) 564-9190.
Common questions
If a child, pet or vulnerable person is inside, call 911 first. Otherwise check all doors and the trunk, look for a spare key, then call a lockout service.
Many towing companies, including ours, offer lockout service and can open most cars without damage.
A professional lockout uses proper tools and is designed to avoid damage, unlike hangers or breaking a window.
Yes. Please have your ID ready so we can confirm you are the owner or have permission.
Yes. We can tow a car without keys to a dealer, locksmith or another address you choose.
Locked out right now? Call (305) 564-9190. More: towing and roadside services · towing FAQ.