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How do I fix my unopenable car door?

I can't get my car door open! Is this something I can fix at home, or do I need to call a tow truck?

avatar
Matthew Macgugan · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“If your door is stuck or malfunctioning, there is a chance you’ll be able to open it yourself.
The issue may be your locking mechanism is sticking. This means the key is having difficulty entering the keyhole. Try adding lubrication to the lock to get your key in.
Another issue may be the key itself. The key could be bent or broken without your knowledge. Or, you may have
locked the keys in your car
. If you have a spare key, try to use that to open the door.
The issue could also be the door latch. Emergency unlocking tools (available at hardware stores) or coat hangers can be used to get the latch open. However, these options will often scratch your car, so be wary before trying this option.
If all these options fail, call a locksmith. The issue might be with the lock itself and a professional locksmith should be able to give you access to your vehicle.
As a last resort,
call a tow
and let a mechanic figure out how to get your door open.
Make sure you’ve got the best insurance plan, including towing coverage, to help you with situations like this. Sign up with
Jerry
, a free app, to help you get a mechanic through our industry-leading roadside assistance program for only $50 a year.”
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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