Locking yourself out of the car can be a serious problem--especially if you cannot get back inside. Having your own auto-entry tools will solve this problem, allowing you to unlock it without having to hire a professional. No matter what, to prevent causing any physical damage to your car, it is wise to follow directions and be careful.
Most American cars are made with doors containing control arms of metal. Slim-jims can be used to push down onto the arm and force the door to unlock. To use a slim-jim, slip the beveled end of the tool down in between the car door glass and the weather strip. Apply pressure once the slim-jim meets the control arm. Note that slim-jims do not work on every car and they can cause damage to the door. According to Lock-Picking, a website devoted to auto entry, you can harm "a vehicle's locking mechanism or break the window of the vehicle if too much pressure is exerted."
If a slim-jim is unavailable, a pump wedge could work just as well. The pump wedge is designed to insert easily into a closed door frame. The wedge is then inflated with air, much like a blood pressure cuff, separating the car door from its frame--thus, causing the door to unlock. These tools can also be used to provide openings large enough to reach in and grab your keys. A decent pump wedge may even offer options for an extended warranty. Most importantly, it is critical to know how to safely operate this tool. Misuse of a pump wedge can severely damage your door.
A long-reach tool acts as a mechanical arm. This tool (also referred to as an across-the-car entry tool) is designed to reach inside and activate opposite side of the car buttons. It can also be used to retrieve keys. Often designed up to 76-inches long, many long-reach tools are also equipped to pull handles and manuever around tight spots. Whether using a long-reach tool or any other auto-entry device, it is wise to consult professional help or advice.
In the event slim-jims or pump wedges will not work, it may be time to upgrade your technology. Fiberoptic scopes allow you to see inside car doors to make auto entry successful. By inserting the fiberoptic cable with a high resolution lens through the weather strip, a clear image of objects can be viewed at distances from 1-inch to 1-foot. Many scopes also offer "a 40 degree field of view," according to LockPickerSmall. This tool is most helpful when using slim-jims, wire lockout tools and needing to view the code on the lock inside a door.
