Locked My Keys in...

[toddjb122]

...while it was running!!!

This was totally user error, but figured I'd share it since I highlighted a fail-safe that is on newer cars, but apparently not on my 2005.

Car was in the driveway, it was cold out, I unlocked it and stuck my key in through the passenger door on my way to the mailbox. On the way to the ignition I think I hit the lock button on either the remote or the dash. I'm not sure but I noticed the lights flashing and realized I had accidentally hit the hazard lights which I turned off before closing the door...

I didn't think anything of it because cars usually unlock when you shut a door to avoid this. Came back from the mailbox and found all the doors locked and the car purring along with the heat cranked.

Well, as I was in my own driveway the spare key was upstairs. Battery in the spare FOB was dead from lack of use, but I was able to use the key entry on the driver's side door handle and the crisis was averted.

To be honest, I'm not sure if I locked the car via fob or dash if it even matters. If it was the FOB, it was before I started the car. If it was the dash, it could have been either before or after. In any case I was surprised to find it running and locked! Glad I was in my own driveway.

 

[cmb6s]

I've often thought of buying a key off of ebay, getting it cut at the local locksmith, and sticking it under the car in a key box in order to avoid this sort of situation. The key wouldn't work to start the car (so bonus for preventing theft), but it would work to open the door in case you lock your primary key inside.

 

[Houm_WA]

I don't think getting it cut at a local locksmith is that easy. I've tried and failed to find one in the Seattle are that can do it.

That said, I have also had this happen....during a camping trip! Luckily, the sunroof was open, so we used a branch to push the unlock switch and we were in.

 

[toddjb122]

Agreed, I would love a cut key for this purpose. Be nice if you could take a clay mold of it and have a key made that way...you know, like you see in spy movies.

 

[Trynian]

Was your door actually closed all the way when you locked the keys in? If the door does fully close it will seem locked but you just have to bump it all the way closed and the safety unlock will engage.

Learned that one the same way.