Few things can ruin your day faster than realizing you’ve locked your keys inside your car. Whether you’re in a rush to get to work, standing in a parking lot with groceries, or stuck outside your vehicle on a cold night — it’s a stressful situation that can happen to anyone. The good news? You can handle it safely and calmly without causing damage or spending a fortune.
At MattLock Locksmith Service, we help drivers across Vancouver, WA and the surrounding area get back on the road quickly — and we’ve learned a few important tips along the way.
1. Stay Calm and Assess Your Surroundings
Before doing anything else, take a deep breath and make sure you’re in a safe place.
- If you’re on the roadside, stand away from traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
- If you’re in a parking lot, move to a well-lit area and stay visible.
- Avoid leaving children or pets unattended — call emergency services if anyone is trapped inside.
Staying calm helps you think clearly and keeps you (and your vehicle) out of harm’s way.
2. Double-Check Every Door
It might sound obvious, but check every door handle, the trunk, and even the back hatch. Sometimes a passenger door or tailgate remains unlocked even when the driver’s side isn’t.
If you have a newer vehicle, check whether your key fob or mobile app (like FordPass or myChevrolet) can remotely unlock your doors.
3. Avoid DIY Damage
When panic sets in, many people try improvised tools — coat hangers, screwdrivers, shoelaces, or wedges — to get back in. Unfortunately, these methods often cause more harm than good.
They can:
- Scratch or dent the paint
- Tear weather stripping or window seals
- Damage airbags or sensors hidden in the door panel
Even a small slip can cost hundreds in repairs. Professional locksmiths use specialized tools designed to open your vehicle without damage, saving you time and money.
4.Call a Licensed Automotive Locksmith
If you’ve confirmed all doors are locked and no spare key is available, it’s time to call a professional.
A trained locksmith can unlock your car in minutes using precision tools, and most offer mobile service — meaning they come to you, wherever you’re stuck.
Here’s what sets a professional locksmith apart:
- Specialized lockout tools for every vehicle type
- Experience with transponder keys, smart keys, and key fobs
- Ability to make or program a new key on-site if yours is lost
At MattLock Locksmith Service, we provide damage-free automotive unlocks and key programming for most makes and models — quickly and reliably.
5. Think Ahead to Prevent Future Lockouts
Once you’re back in your vehicle, take a few simple steps to avoid the same headache next time:
- Keep a spare key with someone you trust or in a secure key safe. Dont have one? Ask to have one made on site!
- Use a magnetic key holder in a hidden area (but never somewhere obvious like under the bumper).
- Replace weak key fob batteries before they die unexpectedly.
- Consider upgrading to a smart lock or keypad entry if your vehicle supports it.
A few minutes of planning now can save hours of frustration later.
6. Why Call MattLock Locksmith Service?
We’re not just another locksmith company — we’re your local Vancouver professionals dedicated to honesty, safety, and reliability.
When you call MattLock Locksmith Service, you get:
- Fast mobile response throughout Vancouver and nearby areas
- Clear, upfront pricing — no hidden fees or bait-and-switch tactics
- Trained, insured technicians who treat your vehicle with care
- 24/7 emergency assistance for automotive, home, and business lockouts
🚘 Locked Out in Vancouver, WA?
If you’re locked out of your car, don’t risk damaging your vehicle — let the pros handle it safely.
Call MattLock Locksmith Service for fast, friendly, and reliable help right where you are.
📞 (360) 553-5614
🌐 www.matt-lock.com