If you are locked out of your car, start by checking that no one is in danger, then try the simple options: every door and the trunk, a spare key, your vehicle's app and any roadside assistance you already have. If none of those work, a locksmith can usually open the car without damage. What you should avoid is forcing your way in with a coat hanger or a wedge, which can damage the door, wiring and weather seals.

Locked out of your car now? Call (613) 707-4884.

1. Is Anyone in Danger?

If a child, a vulnerable adult or a pet is locked inside, especially on a hot or very cold day, call 911 right away. Do not wait for a locksmith or roadside service. Temperatures inside a closed car can change quickly in both summer heat and Ottawa winters.

Also think about your own safety. If you are on the shoulder of a busy road or highway, stay well away from traffic. At night, wait in a well-lit public place if you can.

2. Check Every Way In

  • Try every door, including the rear doors, and the trunk or rear hatch.
  • Check whether a window was left slightly open. Do not try to force it down further.
  • If your vehicle has a keypad on the door, try your code.

3. Use Remote and Spare Options

  • Vehicle app or connected service. Many newer vehicles have a manufacturer app or subscription service that can unlock the doors remotely, but only if it was set up beforehand.
  • A spare key. Someone at home may be able to bring it to you. For a smart key, the spare fob works the same way.
  • Roadside assistance. Check whether you have it through an auto club membership, your insurance or your vehicle's warranty. Lockout coverage varies by plan.

4. What Not to Do

  • Do not use a coat hanger or slim jim. Modern doors contain wiring, lock linkages and other components that are easy to damage. Poking around inside can lead to expensive repairs.
  • Do not pry the door or window frame. Bent frames leak air and water and can be costly to fix.
  • Do not break a window unless someone's life is at risk and emergency services have told you to.

5. If You Call a Locksmith

Having a few details ready makes things easier:

  • Your exact location, including the parking lot, level or nearest cross street.
  • The make, model and year of the vehicle.
  • Whether the keys are locked inside or are lost. These are different jobs. Opening a car is one thing; making a new key, especially a transponder or smart key, is another.
  • Photo ID. Expect to be asked to prove the vehicle is yours. If your registration is inside the car, it can usually be checked once the door is open.

Ask for the price before work starts and what affects it, such as the time of day, location and type of vehicle.

Keys Locked Inside a Push-to-Start Car

Do not assume a push-to-start car will always stop you from locking the fob inside. How a vehicle behaves depends on the make and model, so check your owner's manual. If it does happen, the steps are the same as any other lockout: check the other doors, your app, a spare fob and roadside assistance first.

If Your Keys Are Lost, Not Locked In

If you cannot find your keys at all, getting into the car only solves half the problem. You will need a new key cut and, for most modern vehicles, programmed to the car. Our article on car key programming costs in Ottawa explains what affects that job.

Next Step

If the simple options above have not worked, see our car lockout service or call (613) 707-4884.

For professional help, see our broken key extraction service — available 24/7 across Ottawa.