After coming out of a store or getting ready to go home, you may have discovered that you locked your keys in the car. Because you are in a hurry to get home or to your next destination, you may be tempted to try to get into your car yourself. However, there are a couple of things that you should not do when trying to get the keys out of your locked car.

1.  Using a Makeshift Key in the Lock

One thing you may decide to try when you have locked your keys in your car is to put a makeshift key into the lock to see if you can get it to turn. You may feel that if you can get a piece of metal into the lock's opening, you will be able to move the interior tumbler enough to unlock it.

However, trying to put anything into the lock other than the key that goes to it is a very bad idea. For starters, you will be hard-pressed to get anything to fit into the lock without it jamming inside the tumbler and getting stuck. This would prevent you from using your key once you do get it.

Another reason why you shouldn't use a makeshift key is that if you do manage to get the object into the lock, you will most likely damage the tumbler. You would then have to have the lock replaced.

2.  Attempting to Use a Coat Hanger Through a Rolled-up Window

Another thing you should not attempt when trying to get into your locked car is pushing a coat hanger through a rolled-up window. Especially if you have ever had an old car, you may have pushed a coat hanger into the space between the window and door frame so that you can get to the interior lock switch.

Newer cars, however, have a tighter seal than older models. If the window is rolled all of the way up, you will most likely damage the seal or weatherstripping. You may even crack or shatter the window.

If you have locked your keys in your car, it is better to have a professional help you get into your car to avoid causing damage to the lock or window. Contact an automotive business that offers lockout services, such as Jim's Garage Inc, and have them come to your location and get you back in your car and on the road.