Automobile Desk: People often make this mistake while traveling or while reaching somewhere in a hurry – the car is closed, locked and then they realize that the key is left inside. As soon as such a situation arises, most of the people get nervous and in order to open the car, they immediately start making some such arrangements, which instead of getting relief, causes a big blow to the pocket. According to auto experts, in case the car is locked, a wrong decision taken in panic can cause significant damage to your vehicle.
People first decide to break the glass of the car, because it seems to them the easiest and fastest way. However, this decision not only causes economic loss but is also risky from security point of view. The scattered pieces of broken glass can injure you. Moreover, getting new glass installed later and cleaning the glass particles from the cabin becomes a separate headache and expensive task. The step of breaking the glass should be taken only when a small child or pet is trapped inside the car and the situation is emergency. Taking this step should be completely avoided on ordinary occasions.
Similarly, trying to open the lock with home remedies like scale, iron wire or screwdriver can also prove to be very costly. Nowadays, modern vehicles not only have mechanical locks inside their doors, but also many types of electronic sensors, wiring and anti-theft mechanisms are fitted. In such a situation, putting any sharp object inside the door without knowledge or applying force can damage the internal wiring. If something gets broken or stuck inside, then the entire door mechanism may have to be replaced, which can cost thousands.
Often people, in anger or panic, start pulling the lock handle hard or try to make space by inserting a screwdriver on the edges of the door. Due to this force, the door frame, rubber sealing and handle of the car can become loose or crooked. Once the rubber sealing or frame gets damaged, it can lead to permanent problems like water seepage during rains and wind noise while driving at high speed.
Whenever such a situation arises, first of all remain calm and find a solution with a cool mind. First of all think about the spare key (second key) present at home. If you are in the city, then the most economical solution is to order the spare through a friend or family member. Also, if you have a new vehicle with connected car features, check its mobile app, digital key or remote unlock feature. Many times the boot (diggy) or one of the doors remains unlocked, so it is wise to handle all the doors once.
If nothing else works, call your car company's Roadside Assistance (RSA) or seek help from a professional auto locksmith instead of trying to do it yourself. These professionals have special tools to unlock the car without causing any damage. Only right information and right decision at the right time can save you from big financial losses.