What To Do If You’re Locked Out of Your Car

Getting locked out of your car can be a frustrating and stressful experience, especially when you’re in a hurry or stranded in an unfamiliar area. Whether you’re in Boston, Allston, Brighton, Brookline, Newton, Cambridge, Somerville, or traveling across Massachusetts, knowing the right steps to take can help you regain access to your vehicle quickly and safely. This guide will walk you through the best actions to take if you find yourself locked out, as well as when to call a professional locksmith for assistance.

• Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
• Step 2: Determine If You Have Roadside Assistance
• Step 3: Call a Professional Auto Locksmith
• Step 4: Prevent Future Lockouts
• Step 5: Save Our Number – Bolt Lock & Key 24/7

The first and most important thing to do when locked out of your car is to stay calm. Panicking can lead to rushed decisions that may damage your vehicle or delay a solution. Take a moment to assess your surroundings, especially if you’re in a busy area like Downtown Boston, a shopping center parking lot, or a highway rest stop.

• Check for spare keys – If you have a spare key at home or with a family member, see if someone can bring it to you.
• Look for an unlocked door – Sometimes, one door or the trunk may still be accessible.
• Avoid forced entry – Using coat hangers or other objects to pry open the door can damage your locks, windows, or wiring.

If you have AAA, insurance coverage, or an auto warranty plan, you may be eligible for free or low-cost lockout assistance. Many Boston-area drivers subscribe to roadside assistance programs, which can dispatch help within 30-60 minutes. 

• Check your insurance policy – Many providers offer emergency locksmith coverage.
• Use a vehicle app – Some manufacturers like Ford, GM, and Toyota offer remote unlocking services through their mobile apps.
• Contact roadside assistance – If you’re a member of AAA or another program, they can send a professional to unlock your car.

If you don’t have roadside assistance or need a faster solution, a licensed automotive locksmith is the best option. Professional locksmiths in Boston and throughout Massachusetts specialize in unlocking vehicles without causing damage.

• Fast response times – Many locksmiths offer 24/7 emergency lockout services for stranded drivers.
• Specialized tools and techniques – Professional locksmiths use non-damaging methods to unlock cars, including transponder key reprogramming and smart key solutions.
• Service across Greater Boston – Whether you’re in Quincy, Newton, Brookline, or passing through on I-90 or I-93, locksmiths can quickly reach your location.

Once you’ve regained access to your car, consider taking preventative steps to avoid getting locked out again.

• Keep a spare key – Store a spare with a trusted friend or use a magnetic key holder on your vehicle.
• Use smart key technology – Many modern vehicles have keyless entry apps or digital key fobs that prevent accidental lockouts.
• Develop a habit – Before closing the door, always check that you have your keys in hand.

Locked out of your vehicle in the Boston area? Be prepared by saving Bolt Lock & Key’s number now: (617) 903-2095

We’re here to help anytime.