Locked Your Keys in the Car? What to Do (and What Not to Do)

It happens in a second — the door shuts, and there are your keys on the seat. Here's how to handle it.

First: is anyone inside?

If a child or pet is locked in the vehicle, especially in heat, call 911 immediately. Temperatures inside a closed car in Louisiana can become dangerous within minutes.

Check the obvious

  • Try every door, including the rear hatch or trunk.
  • Is there a spare key at home someone can bring?
  • Does your vehicle have an app or connected service that can unlock it remotely?

What not to do

  • Don't use a coat hanger or slim jim. Modern doors are full of wiring and airbag components that are easy to damage.
  • Don't break a window unless it's an emergency. A replacement window often costs far more than a lockout service.
  • Don't pry the door frame. Bent frames lead to wind noise and leaks.

How professional lockout service works

A trained technician uses purpose-built tools to open the door without damage, usually in minutes. Expect to show ID and proof that the vehicle is yours once it's open — that's for your protection.

Get back in fast

Metairie Mobile Tires offers 24/7 car lockout service across Metairie, New Orleans, Kenner and Jefferson Parish. Call (504) 552-3338.

Stuck right now? We'll come to you.

24/7 mobile tire & roadside service across Metairie, New Orleans & Jefferson Parish.