How lockouts happen
Keys left on the seat when the doors auto-lock, keys dropped in the sand, a fob with a dead battery, a key that snapped in the door lock. On a beach day in Newport Beach, all of these happen.
Why DIY usually goes wrong
Coat hangers and slim jims were designed for cars from decades ago. On modern cars they scratch paint, tear weatherstripping, disconnect the wiring and airbag sensors inside the door, or damage the lock linkage. Breaking a window costs more than a locksmith and leaves the car open.
How a locksmith does it
The usual method is an inflatable air wedge to open a small gap at the top of the door, and a long reach tool to press the unlock button or pull the handle. On some cars a lock-specific pick opens the door lock itself. Done carefully, neither leaves a mark.
When the key is lost, not locked in
If the key is gone, the locksmith can often cut a new one from the VIN and program it to the car on site, so you can drive away. Some fobs and push-to-start systems need the dealer; the dispatcher will tell you.
What to have ready
Your exact location, the make, model and year, and proof that the car is yours: ID and registration. See the car locksmith page for the full list of vehicle services.
