6 methods for unlocking a door lock without a key

unlock door without key
Publish at Sep 22, 2021 By: Dustin Fernandez
Post View: 1576

There are many ways to unlock a door without a key. This blog post will explore some of the most common methods and provide tips and tricks for each. We will also troubleshoot common problems and provide additional resources. Let's get started!

How to unlock a door without a key - Tools Needed.

As always, make sure you have the proper tools for the job. To unlock the door without a key, you will need:

  • A bobby pin
  • Bump Key
  • A screwdriver
  • Lock-picking tools
  • A credit card
  • Wire Clothes Hanger

The steps involved in opening a locked door without a key

Each method will vary depending on the type of door you are dealing with and the available tools.

Method 1: Use a bobby pin

A bobby pin is a metal hairpin shaped like a U. Generally; it is used to hold hair back or style it into a bun. However, it can also be a makeshift tool to unlock doors with a pin-tumbler lock. This method can open any door that employs tumbler mechanisms in the locking mechanism if applied properly.

Instructions:

  1. Locate the small hole on the doorknob.
  2. Insert the bobby pin into the hole and try to push or twist it.
  3. If the bobby pin does not budge, try bending it slightly to get a better grip.
  4. Once you have a good grip, twist or pull the bobby pin until the door unlocks.

Troubleshooting:

If the bobby pin is too thick, it will not fit into the keyway. Try using thinner bobby pins or file down the end of the bobby pin to make it thinner.

How to open the lock using bobby pin - (credit: wikiHow)

Method 2: Use bump keys

A bump key is a lock-picking tool used to open doors without a key. The bump key is inserted into the lock and then "bumped" with a tool, such as a screwdriver or a hammer. This bumping action causes the pins in the lock to become misaligned, allowing the bump key to be turned and the door to be opened. You will need a few tools and patience to use a bump key.

Instructions:

  1. Insert the bump key into the lock.
  2. Apply light pressure to the bump key and turn it slightly clockwise.
  3. Use a small hammer to strike the bump key several times.
  4. If the door does not open, repeat steps 2-3 until the door opens.

Troubleshooting:

This method requires some skills and practice to master. If you are having difficulty, many online resources can help, including video tutorials.

Method 3: Use a screwdriver

While a screwdriver may not be the first tool that comes to mind when thinking of unlocking a door without a key, it can be quite effective. With a little force, the right screwdriver can be inserted into the space between the door and its frame near the handle. This will allow you to apply leverage and twist the screwdriver until the door unlocks.

Instructions:

  1. Find a screwdriver that fits snugly into the door's space and frame.
  2. Insert the screwdriver into the space and apply pressure.
  3. Twist the screwdriver until you hear a click.
  4. Continue twisting until the door unlocks.

Troubleshooting:

If the screwdriver is too big or too small, it will not be effective. Make sure to find a screwdriver that fits snugly into the space.

Method 4: Use lock-picking tools

lock picking

Lock-picking tools are specialized tools used to open locks without a key. They come in various shapes and sizes, but all perform the same function: manipulating the lock's components to unlock it. Lock-picking tools can be purchased online or at hardware stores and are relatively inexpensive.

Instructions:

  1. Insert the tension wrench into the bottom of the keyway and apply gentle pressure.
  2. Insert the pick into the keyway and feel for the pins.
  3. Using the pick, push each pin until it feels like it is set in place.
  4. Once all pins are set, turn the tension wrench to open the lock.

Troubleshooting:

This method requires some skills and practice to master. If you are having difficulty, many online resources can help, including video tutorials. Also, some locks will be more difficult to pick than others and require more time and patience.

Learn how to pick a lock (credit: DaveHax)

Method 5: Use a credit card

unlock door with credit card

If you find yourself locked out of your home, you may be able to use a credit card to get in. Open a Door Without A Key credit card style. When exploring this option, it is essential to understand that this trick only works best with doors equipped with latch bolts or a spring lock, usually found in interior doors. This method will NOT work on deadbolts.

It is also notable that the credit card employed for this purpose should be one you no longer use as it might get damaged during the process.

Instructions:

  1. Look for a flexible credit card but not too thin. A thicker card will be more difficult to insert into the space between the door and frame.
  2. Insert the credit card into the space between the door frame and the door near the handle.
  3. Apply pressure to the credit card and slide it up and down against the strike plate until you find the spot where it can slide the latch bolt easily.
  4. Once the credit card is inserted, apply pressure and twist until you hear a click.
  5. Continue twisting until the door unlocks.

Troubleshooting:

Credit cards are not always effective, as doors and locks come in various shapes and sizes. If the credit card is not sliding in easily or is not causing the door to unlock, try another method.

Method 6: Using Wire Clothes Hanger

This method requires a clothes hanger and some patience. It can be used on any door with a knob.

Instructions:

  1. Straighten out the hanger.
  2. Insert the hanger into the space between the door and frame near the knob.
  3. Apply pressure to the hanger with your thumb.
  4. Use your other hand to twist the clothes hanger.
  5. Continue twisting until the hanger catches on the knob.
  6. Once the hanger is caught, pull it out and insert it into the next tumbler.
  7. Repeat steps 3-6 until all the latches have been disengaged and the door is unlocked.

Troubleshooting

Try bending it slightly if you have difficulty getting the hanger to catch on the knob. This will help the clothes hanger fit into the knob more easily.

If the clothes hanger is too thick or inflexible, it will not work properly.

How to prevent getting locked out?

There are a few things you can do to prevent getting locked out:

1. Keep a spare key hidden outside your home.

One of the best ways to prevent getting locked out of your home is to keep a spare key hidden somewhere outside your home. This could be under a doormat, in a potted plant, or in any other location that you can think of. Just make sure that you remember where you hide it!

2. Give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or friend.

Another option is to give a spare key to a nearby trusted neighbor or friend. That way, if you ever get locked out, you can call them, and they can come let you in.

3. Make sure your locks are working properly 

If your locks are old or damaged, they may be more likely to fail and cause you to get locked out of your home. Make sure to regularly check your locks for any damage and have them repaired or replaced if necessary.

4. Invest in smart door locks.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can invest in a smart lock for your home. Smart locks are connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth, so you can unlock your door with just a few taps on your phone. They're also great for letting guests into your home when you're not there, as you can send them a "key" that expires after they use it.

Following these tips can help you avoid getting locked out of your home in the future. But if you find yourself in this situation, remember that there are a few things you can try to get back in. With a little patience and creativity, you should be able to get your door open in no time.

Conclusion

There are many ways to open a door without a key. The best method to use depends on the type of door and lock you have. With a little patience and trial and error, you should be able to find a way to open the door.

ASAP Locksmith Company - Unlocking the Door Without a Key in Dallas, TX!

asap locksmith Dallas

If you find yourself locked out of your home or business, don't panic! ASAP Locksmith Company can help. We offer various services to help you get back into your property, including unlocking the door without a key.

Our technicians are experienced in lock-picking and can open any lock, no matter what type. We also carry a wide range of locksmith supplies, so we can fix or replace any lock quickly and efficiently.

Don't struggle to get into your property - call ASAP Locksmith Company today! We're available 24/7 and can be at your location within 30 minutes.

Article written by: Dustin Fernandez
I am Dustin Fernandez, and I'm the owner of ASAP Locksmith in Dallas. My company is a family business, and we provide locksmith services to residential, commercial, and automotive customers. I've been in the locksmith industry since 1995 when I was just 20 years old. I started by working for another locksmith company before eventually starting my own. Over time, my father joined me as a partner in this venture, which made him proud to help his son succeed at something he loved doing!