How to Open a Car Window from the Outside

Sometimes a car window may need to be opened from the outside, due to an accidental lock-in or malfunctioning mechanism. Whatever the case, it’s important to know how to open a car window from the outside without damaging the vehicle. This guide will explain common tools and techniques for accessing locked car windows.

Using a Slim Jim Tool

A slim jim is one of the most popular tools used for opening car windows from the outside. It is a thin piece of metal with notches cut out along one side which can slide between the window and weather stripping of cars with manual door locks. After inserting the tool between your car window and weatherstripping, you can use it to unlock your car door by lifting on the interior door handle while pulling down on the opposite end of your slim jim tool.

Using an Emergency Hammer or Punch Tool

If you don’t have access to a slim jim tool, you can use an emergency hammer or punch tool instead. These tools are designed specifically for breaking windows in cases of emergency, such as when someone is locked inside their vehicle with no other means of escape. To use an emergency hammer or punch tool, simply point it at the center of your car window and strike it with a hammer or other blunt object. The tool should shatter the glass, allowing you to reach inside and unlock your door.

Drilling Out the Locking Mechanism

If you’re unable to open your car window with a slim jim or emergency hammer/punch tool, then you may need to drill out the locking mechanism. This will require access to a power drill, as well as some patience and skill in removing internal parts of your vehicle’s door frame. Start by removing any trim pieces from around the area of your lock cylinder, then locate and remove any screws that are holding it in place. Now you can use a drill bit that matches the size of your lock cylinder and slowly drill out its core until it is freed from the frame. Then simply use pliers or other tools to pull out any remnants of metal from the drilled-out area before reassembling everything back together again.

Using an Electric Screwdriver or Drill

If all else fails, an electric screwdriver or drill can be used as a last resort to open locked car windows from the outside. To do this, start by covering the area surrounding your window with several layers of tape, then use the electric screwdriver or drill to slowly and carefully drill a hole in the center of your window. Once you’ve created a small hole, simply use a flathead screwdriver to pop open the window latch from the inside. Additionally, for those experiencing difficulties with a window not operating correctly, you may want to look into How to Test a Window Motor. This guide can help you diagnose and possibly fix issues with your window motor, which is a common cause for non-responsive power windows.

Conclusion

Opening car windows from the outside can be tricky, but several tools and techniques can help you do it without damaging your vehicle. A slim jim tool is one of the most common methods, while an emergency hammer or punch tool can be used in cases of emergency. You can also try drilling out the locking mechanism with a power drill, or using an electric screwdriver or drill as a last resort. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily open car windows from the outside.