Locked Out? Here’s What to Do (Without Damaging Your Lock)

Getting locked out of your home, car, or business is frustrating — and it always seems to happen at the worst possible time. Whether you’re dealing with a house lockout in the middle of the night or a car lockout during a busy day, knowing what to do next can save you time, money, and stress.

At 24 Hour Lock & Key, we handle thousands of lockouts every year across Portland, Salem, and Phoenix — and here’s exactly what you should (and shouldn’t) do.

🚪 Step 1: Stay Calm and Check All Entry Points

Before calling a locksmith, take a minute to:

• Check all doors and windows

• Try alternative entry points (garage, back door, etc.)

• Confirm you don’t have a spare key nearby

👉 You’d be surprised how often a second door is unlocked.

🚫 Step 2: Avoid DIY Methods That Cause Damage

You’ve probably seen tricks online — credit cards, coat hangers, or forcing the lock.

⚠️ These methods can:

• Damage your lock mechanism

• Void warranties

• Lead to expensive repairs

Modern locks are designed to prevent exactly these techniques.

🔑 Step 3: Call a Professional Locksmith

A licensed locksmith can typically:

• Unlock doors without damage

• Get you back inside in minutes

• Identify if your lock needs repair or replacement

At 24 Hour Lock & Key, our technicians are trained in non-destructive entry, meaning we prioritize getting you in without drilling whenever possible.

🚗 Locked Out of Your Car?

Car lockouts are one of the most common calls we get.

We can:

• Unlock most vehicles quickly

• Cut and program new keys

• Repair or replace ignitions

👉 If your keys are lost (not just locked in), we can still create a new one on-site.

🏢 Business or Office Lockout?

If you’re locked out of your business, time is money.

We help with:

• Commercial lockouts

• Master key systems

• High-security locks

• Emergency rekey services

We also work with property managers and business owners to prevent future lockouts.

🔄 Step 4: Consider Rekeying or Upgrading Your Locks

If your keys are lost or stolen, unlocking the door is only step one.

You may want to:

• Rekey your locks (more affordable than replacing)

• Upgrade to high-security locks

• Install smart locks for easier access control

⏱️ How Long Does It Take?

Most lockouts are resolved in:👉 15–30 minutes once the technician arrives

Our mobile locksmiths are fully equipped to handle the job on-site.

📍 Serving Portland, Salem & Phoenix

We provide fast, reliable locksmith services across:

• Portland & Vancouver Metro

• Salem & surrounding areas

• Phoenix Metro

Whether it’s day or night, our team is ready to help.

📞 Need Help Now?

If you’re locked out, don’t wait or risk damaging your lock.

👉 Call or message 24 Hour Lock & Key for fast serviceWe’re available 24/7 and specialize in quick, professional lockout solutions.