How to Unlock a Door When the Keys Are Inside

It can be frustrating to find yourself locked out of your home or car, with the keys just out of reach. There are several ways to open the door without damaging it. This guide will show you how to open a locked door with the keys inside.

1. Check for alternative access points

Walk around the property and check if there are any unlocked windows or doors. You might be able to gain access through a backdoor, a window, or even a rear door. Check if the trunk or any other doors are unlocked if you’re working with a vehicle. You could save yourself the hassle of having to pick a lock.

2. Use your Credit Card for Spring Locks

You may be able to use a credit or debit card to unlock a door that has a spring-loaded latch. These are often found on interior doors. Here’s how:

• Select a card you are not worried about damaging. Plastic cards are the best.
• Insert the card where the latch is between the doorframe and the door.
• Slide the card towards the latch while wriggling it. It is important to move the latch into the door to allow it to open.
• Slide the card against the door and apply some pressure to force the latch back.

This method will not work with deadbolts, but it can be used on spring-loaded locks.

3. Use a Coat Hanger (for Cars)

A coat hanger, or a slim jim, can unlock manual locks if your keys are locked in your vehicle:

• Straighten out the coat hanger, but do not remove the hook.
• Slide the hanger in between the weather stripping and the window until you reach your lock mechanism.
• To unlock the door, carefully maneuver the hanger so that it hooks onto the lock.

Take your time and be patient. This method can be difficult.

4. Try “Bump Key Technique”

A bump key can be used to unlock pin tumbler locks. Insert the bump key into the lock or get one if you don’t have one. Then, lightly tap on it with a small hammer as you turn it. The pins in the lock may align, allowing the key to be turned.

5. Call a locksmith

Call a locksmith if DIY doesn’t work or if you have a high-security lock. The locksmiths have the right tools and experience to open doors without damaging them. It may be more expensive, but it is a much safer and reliable solution, especially with complex locks.

6. Prevent Future Lockouts

Consider keeping an extra key with a neighbor you trust or in a safe place to avoid lockouts. You could also consider investing in a keyless system or a lockbox that has a combination code to store spare keys.

Conclusion

It is not a pleasant situation to be locked out of your house with your keys still inside. You can usually gain access to your home without much trouble by using these methods. When in doubt, a locksmith can help you gain access to your home safely and without causing any damage.

This post was written by a professional at Keypad Locksmith. Keypad locksmith is a mobile local locksmith in Maryland that specializes in combination locks, keypad locks, decorative locks and safes and lockbox services. We also offer regular locksmith services near you, such as eviction lockout or lock change near you, Re key service Lanham MD, lock installation, door frame adjustments, change of battery or repair to locks and Detex alarm, to commercial and residential properties and vehicle emergencies. Contact us now to request to get the best locksmith services near you today!