When a car is locked, the situation can become stressful quickly. This can happen because the keys are inside the vehicle, the key is lost, the key fob stops working, or the vehicle has a damaged lock. If the car also needs to be moved, towing it requires extra care.
A locked vehicle should not be moved using random methods or equipment that is not designed for towing. The wrong method can damage the tires, wheels, steering system, transmission, or body.
If you are unsure how the vehicle should be moved, a professional towing company can inspect the vehicle and choose a suitable towing method.
Can a Locked Car Be Towed?
Yes, a locked car can usually be towed. Being locked does not automatically prevent a tow truck from moving the vehicle.
However, the correct equipment and towing method depend on the vehicle.
The tow operator may need information such as:
- Vehicle make and model
- Approximate year
- Front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive
- Whether the vehicle starts
- Whether the wheels roll
- Whether the steering wheel is locked
- Whether there is accident damage
- Whether the tires are properly inflated
Modern vehicles can have different steering, transmission, and electronic systems. This is why the towing method should be selected based on the vehicle rather than using the same method for every car.
Do Not Try to Force the Car Open
If your keys are locked inside, avoid trying to force the door open with tools that can damage the vehicle.
Modern cars may have:
- Electronic locks
- Side airbags
- Sensitive weather seals
- Keyless entry systems
- Complex door mechanisms
Trying to pry open a door or use an unsuitable tool can result in expensive damage.
If the main problem is a locked vehicle, you may need professional car lockout assistance before the vehicle is moved.
AAA also recommends getting professional help when dealing with vehicle lockouts, particularly because modern keyless systems can make older DIY entry methods unsuitable.
How Professionals Tow a Locked Car
The exact process depends on the vehicle and its condition.
1. Identify the vehicle
The tow operator first needs to know what type of vehicle is involved. This helps determine what equipment may be appropriate.
2. Check the vehicle’s condition
The operator should determine whether the car:
- Starts
- Rolls
- Steers
- Has working tires
- Has accident damage
- Has locked wheels
This information can affect how the vehicle is loaded and transported.
3. Select suitable equipment
Different vehicles may require different towing equipment. The goal is to move the vehicle while reducing unnecessary stress on the wheels, drivetrain, steering system, and body.
4. Secure the vehicle
Before transportation begins, the vehicle should be properly secured according to the equipment being used.
5. Transport the vehicle
Once properly secured, the car can be transported to the requested location, such as a repair shop, home, or another safe destination.
For vehicles involved in accidents, additional care may be necessary. Vehicle-specific emergency response information can include towing and storage guidance, especially for electric and hybrid vehicles.
What If the Keys Are Locked Inside?
If the car is locked but otherwise works normally, towing may not be your first solution.
You may need car lockout service to regain access to the vehicle.
Once you have access, the vehicle can be started or moved normally if there are no other problems.
If the vehicle cannot start or has another mechanical problem, emergency towing service may be the better option.
What If the Steering Wheel Is Locked?
A locked steering system can affect how the vehicle is moved.
Do not try to force the steering wheel or attempt an improvised towing method. Tell the towing company that the steering is locked when you request service.
The operator can then determine what equipment and loading method are appropriate.
What If the Car Is Damaged?
An accident-damaged vehicle may have:
- Bent wheels
- Damaged suspension
- Flat tires
- Broken steering components
- Body damage
- Fluid leaks
In these situations, normal towing methods may not be suitable.
Tell the tow operator about the damage before the truck arrives. This allows the operator to prepare for the vehicle’s condition.
If your vehicle was damaged in a collision, you can also learn more about accident recovery towing and how damaged vehicles are safely moved.
When Should You Call a Professional?
Professional towing is a good option when:
- Your keys are lost
- Your keys are locked inside
- The vehicle will not start
- The steering is locked
- The vehicle has damaged wheels
- The vehicle was involved in an accident
- You are unsure how to move the car safely
Trying to move a locked or damaged vehicle without the right equipment can create more problems.
Final Thoughts
A locked car can usually be transported, but the correct towing method depends on the vehicle and its condition.
Instead of forcing the doors open or using an unsafe towing method, provide the towing company with accurate information about the vehicle. This helps the operator prepare the right equipment and move the vehicle safely.
If you need help with a locked, disabled, or damaged vehicle, 24/7 Fadi Towing can be contacted to discuss the situation and determine what type of assistance is appropriate.