Unlock Your Car Door with Plastic Bags: The Easy Method!

Updated at: 11/05/2025

Locked out of your car? Don't panic! Before you call an expensive locksmith or resort to breaking a window, consider this surprisingly simple solution: unlocking your car door using nothing more than a common plastic shopping bag. This seemingly improbable method leverages the surprising malleability of plastic and the vulnerabilities in some car door locking mechanisms. For years, this trick has been whispered among savvy drivers and resourceful mechanics, and now, we're sharing it with you.

It might sound unbelievable, but with a little ingenuity and the right technique, you can regain access to your vehicle quickly and affordably. This isn't about sophisticated tools or specialized knowledge; it's a practical, DIY solution that could save you a significant amount of money and frustration. Ready to learn how to use a humble plastic bag to reclaim your car? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below and unlock that door!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed

Two plastic bags
Tape

Safety Guidelines

This method is only for emergency situations when you are locked out of your own car and have no other options. Attempting to unlock someone else's car is illegal and could have serious consequences.
This technique requires patience and skill. It may not work on all car models or locks, and you could potentially damage your car's locking mechanism if done incorrectly.
If you are repeatedly locked out of your car, consider getting your car keys replaced or upgrading your car's security system.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bags
- Place one plastic bag inside the other. This prevents the bag from exploding under pressure.
- Create a small hole in the inner bag.
- Create a lip around the opening of the bag by folding it over. This allows for better adhesion to the car door.
Prepare the Bags
Position and Secure the Bag
- Tape the bag to the car door, ensuring the hole is positioned over the lock mechanism.
Position and Secure the Bag
Apply Pressure to Unlock
- Gently inflate the bag with air.
- Press the inflated bag firmly against the car door to apply pressure to the lock mechanism.
Apply Pressure to Unlock

Tips

Using two bags creates necessary pressure without bursting a single bag.
Trying the trunk lock might be easier, as it's often a simpler latch mechanism.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the wrong type of plastic bag

Reason: Not all plastic bags are created equal; some are too thin or too thick to effectively wedge into the door mechanism.

Solution: Use a sturdy, relatively thick plastic shopping bag, avoiding flimsy produce bags.

2. Improper insertion of the bag into the door jam

Reason: Forcing the bag in the wrong direction or at the wrong angle can damage the door or jam, making it harder to unlock the car.

Solution: Carefully insert the bag into the gap between the door and the frame, aiming for the unlock mechanism.

FAQs

Will this method work on all car models?

No, this method primarily works on older car models with simpler locking mechanisms. Newer cars often have more advanced security features that make this trick ineffective.

Sometimes, unexpected situations call for resourceful solutions. Just like needing to quickly access your car without your keys, finding the right equipment can be crucial. Remember how we discussed the importance of choosing the right gear in our previous guide on ? Selecting the correct tools, whether it's a sturdy tennis bag or a simple plastic bag, can make all the difference in a pinch. This guide will show you how a readily available plastic bag can be surprisingly effective in a car lockout situation.