Locked Your Keys in the Car? What To Do Next (Brampton Driver's Guide)

Locked Out of Your Car? Start Here

Locking your keys in the car happens to almost every driver at some point — at a gas station, in a mall parking lot, or in your own driveway on a cold morning. Here's what to do, in order.

Step 1: Is a Child or Pet Inside?

If a child or animal is locked in the vehicle — especially in summer heat or winter cold — call 911 immediately. Emergency services can respond and force entry if needed. Don't wait for a lockout service.

Step 2: Check Every Door and the Trunk

It sounds obvious, but a rear door or the trunk is sometimes still unlocked. On many vehicles, an open trunk with fold-down seats is a way back into the cabin.

Step 3: Look for a Spare Key

Is there a spare at home, with a family member, or with a coworker nearby? If someone can bring it in less time than a service call, that's the cheapest fix.

Step 4: Check Your Roadside Coverage

Many roadside assistance plans, some car insurance add-ons and some credit cards include lockout service. A quick call to check can save you money.

Step 5: Call a Car Lockout Service

If none of that works, call a professional. Have ready:

Why Not Use a Coat Hanger or Slim Jim?

Modern car doors are packed with wiring, airbag sensors and power-lock mechanisms. A coat hanger or slim jim pushed into the door can scratch paint, tear weather stripping, or disconnect the lock linkage — a repair that often costs more than the lockout call. Professional technicians use air wedges and coated long-reach tools designed to minimize the risk of damage.

Keys Locked in the Trunk

If the keys are in the trunk, a technician will usually open the cabin first and then use the interior trunk release or fold-down rear seats. Some vehicles disable the interior release when locked; your technician will explain the options.

Push-to-Start Fob Locked Inside

Most push-to-start cars try to stop you locking the fob inside, but a weak fob battery or a fob left in the trunk can defeat that. Once the door is open, if the fob battery is dead the car may still start with the fob held against the start button — check your owner's manual.

When You Need a Locksmith Instead

A lockout service opens the car when the key is inside it. If the key is lost, broken, or won't start the car, you'll need a new key cut and programmed by a dealer or automotive locksmith. A tow to the dealer or locksmith is often the fastest way to get that done.

How To Avoid the Next Lockout

Locked out in Brampton, Mississauga or the GTA? Our [24/7 car lockout service](/services/lockout) can help — call 647-673-9755.