If you’ve ever locked yourself out of your garage, you know the panic that sets in. You may not have a key to the house, and even if you do, it will still take time to get inside.
But with a few supplies and some ingenuity, you can unlock your garage door from outside without any trouble! You need a hanger, some tape, and a coat hanger. Keep reading to find out how to unlock garage door from outside.
Summary: To unlock a garage door from the outside, you can use a few different methods depending on the lock and the type of door. One way is to use a slim jim tool to access the latch mechanism inside the door. Another option is to drill a hole near the center of the door and use a wire to pull the emergency release handle.
Why Should You Unlock Garage Door from Outside?
If your garage door opener is lost, malfunctioning, or simply not working, you’ll still be able to get into your garage by unlocking the door from the outside. This is an important safety precaution that everyone should know how to do.
If there’s ever a fire or other emergency in your home and you can’t get to the garage door opener, you’ll be glad you know how to unlock the door manually. In addition, if you ever forget your garage door opener, you won’t be stuck outside in the cold or rain.
So learning how to unlock your garage door from the outside is a smart move for any homeowner.
How to Unlock Garage Door from Outside Step by Step Guide
Unlocking a garage door from the outside can be necessary in various situations, such as when you forget your keys or the garage door opener malfunctions. While it may seem challenging, there are several methods to unlock a garage door from the outside. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to unlock a garage door using different techniques.
Step 1: Assess the Garage Door Lock Type
Before attempting to unlock the garage door from the outside, it’s crucial to understand the type of lock you are dealing with. Garage doors commonly have one of the following types of locks:
- T-Handle Lock: This lock is typically found on older garage doors. It is a handle with a lock cylinder located near the center of the door.
- Deadbolt Lock: This lock is often installed as an additional security measure. It is a single-cylinder deadbolt that requires a key to operate.
- Slide Lock: This lock is a metal bar or bolt that slides into the garage door track to secure it.
Identify the type of lock on your garage door to determine the most suitable unlocking method.
Step 2: Gather the Necessary Tools
Depending on the type of lock, you may require different tools to unlock the garage door from the outside. Common tools that might be useful include a screwdriver, a coat hanger or wire, a credit card or plastic shim, and a flashlight.
Step 3: Attempt the T-Handle Lock Method
If your garage door has a T-handle lock, follow these steps to unlock it:
- Insert the key into the lock cylinder and turn it counterclockwise to unlock the handle.
- Grip the T-handle firmly and pull it towards you, disengaging the lock mechanism.
- Lift the garage door manually from the bottom to open it.
If the key is not available, proceed to the next method.
Step 4: Try the Deadbolt Lock Method
To unlock a garage door with a deadbolt lock, you can follow these steps:
- Insert the key into the lock cylinder and turn it clockwise to unlock the deadbolt.
- Once unlocked, the deadbolt should retract, allowing you to lift the garage door manually.
If you don’t have the key or the deadbolt is stuck, move on to the next method.
Step 5: Use the Slide Lock Method
The slide lock method can be attempted if your garage door has a slide lock. Follow these steps:
- Use a flashlight to locate the slide lock along the inside of the garage door track.
- Insert a long, sturdy object such as a screwdriver or coat hanger into the track near the slide lock.
- Apply pressure to the object and maneuver it to push the slide lock out of the track, disengaging it.
- With the slide lock disengaged, you should be able to manually lift the garage door.
Step 6: Attempt the Coat Hanger or Wire Method
If the previous methods haven’t worked, you can try using a coat hanger or wire to unlock the garage door. Here’s how:
- Straighten a wire coat hanger or use a long, flexible wire.
- Create a small hook at one end of the wire.
- Carefully insert the hooked end of the wire between the top of the garage door and the doorjamb.
- Maneuver the wire to hook onto the emergency release lever or the manual release cord attached to the door opener mechanism.
- Gently pull the wire downward or away from the door opener to release the mechanism and unlock the door.
- Lift the garage door manually once it’s unlocked.
Step 7: Try the Credit Card or Plastic Shim Method
In some cases, a credit card or plastic shim can be used to unlock a garage door. Follow these steps:
- Choose a flexible and sturdy credit card or plastic shim that can fit between the door panels.
- Insert the card or shim between the door panels near the latch or lock mechanism.
- Wiggle the card or shim while applying gentle pressure to push the latch or disengage the lock.
- Continue wiggling and sliding the card or shim until you feel the latch release.
- Once the latch is released, manually lift the garage door to open it.
Step 8: Call a Professional or Locksmith
If all the previous methods fail or you are uncomfortable attempting them, it’s best to seek the assistance of a professional locksmith or garage door technician. They have the expertise and tools to unlock the garage door safely and efficiently without causing any damage.
Step 9: Prevent Future Lockouts
To avoid getting locked out of your garage in the future, consider implementing these preventive measures:
- Keep a spare key or remote in a secure location outside the garage, such as with a trusted neighbor or in a lockbox.
- Install a keyless entry system or smart garage door opener that allows you to enter a PIN or use a smartphone app to open the door.
- Regularly check and maintain the locks and latches on your garage door to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Remember that attempting to unlock a garage door from the outside should be done lawfully and for legitimate purposes. It’s important to respect property boundaries and follow local laws and regulations.
Unlocking a garage door from the outside can be accomplished using various methods, depending on the type of lock installed. By following the appropriate steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully unlock a garage door and regain access to your garage space. However, if you encounter difficulties or are unsure about the process, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance to avoid causing any damage or compromising the security of your garage.
Another Way to Unlock Garage Door from Outside
Step 1: Find the Emergency Release Kit
Most garage doors have an emergency release kit that allows you to open the door from the outside manually. The release kit is generally a red handle that hangs down from the motor unit.
Step 2: Unlock the Release Cord
Once you have found the release kit, you will need to locate the release cord. This long, thin cord runs from the garage door opener unit to the release handle. The cord may be located near the floor, on the wall, or even near the ceiling.
If you have difficulty finding the cord, you can try gently tugging on the garage door itself. This will usually cause the cord to become visible. Once you have found the cord, pull it down towards the floor.
Step 3: Pull Down on the Garage Door
With the release cord pulled down, you should now be able to lift the garage door itself. Start by lifting it a few inches off of the ground. If it feels like it will come crashing down, let go and try again. The door may be off-balance, so you’ll need to be careful.
If the door is heavy, it may help have someone else lift it while working the release cord. Then, once the door is a few inches off the ground, you can let go of the cord and let the door rest on the ground.
If your garage door has an automatic opener, there may be a button or switch you can use to open the door from the outside. Consult your owner’s manual for more information.
Step 4: Close the Garage Door
To close the garage door, pull it up until fully closed. If you have an automatic opener, you can use the switch or button to close the door. Be sure to test the door before you put your car in the garage to ensure it is working properly.
How to Unlock a Garage Door with A Credit Card or Phone
If you’ve ever found yourself locked out of your garage, you know how frustrating it can be. Luckily, there’s a simple trick that can help you get back in without calling a locksmith.
All you need is a credit card or phone. Just insert the card into the space between the door and the frame, and then slide it back and forth until you feel the latch release. Once the latch is released, you should be able to open the door. If you don’t have a credit card, you can also use your phone.
Just place the phone against the door and then press down on the end button to make a call. The vibration from the call should release the latch.
So next time you find yourself locked out, there’s no need to panic. Instead, grab your credit card or phone, and you’ll be back in your garage in no time.
How to Unlock a Garage Door with A Remote Control
Have you ever misplaced your garage door opener and been stuck outside? If you have a modern garage door, it comes with remote control. Most remote controls use radio waves to communicate with the garage door opener unit, activating the door. So if you find yourself without the remote, there is no need to worry.
It is possible to unlock a garage door with remote control as long as you have the right tools. All you need is a strong magnet and a piece of metal that can conduct electricity, such as a paperclip. Hold the magnet against the “learn” button on the garage door opener for about 30 seconds.
Then touch the metal conductor to the two terminals on the back of the unit. The door should now open. If it does not, repeat the process until it does.
You will never be locked out of your garage again with this simple trick! Keep reading for more information about how to unlock garage door from outside.
How to Unlock a Garage Door When You Have Lost Your Key?
Did you know that you can unlock your garage door from the outside without a key? It’s a great feature to have in an emergency, and it’s easy to do. All you need is a spare key or a key fob. Here’s how to do it:
First, find the release lever on the garage door opener. It will be on the front side of the machine, near the ground. Push down on the lever and hold it down while opening the garage door. The door should stay open as long as you keep pressure on the release lever.
Once the door is open, take your key or key fob and put it into the opener’s keyhole. Turn the key until it clicks, and then remove it. The door will now be unlocked. You can come and go as you please, and your garage will be secure.
Tips for Keeping Your Garage Door Locked and Safe
Your garage door is one of the most important entry points to your home, so it’s important to keep it locked and secure. Here are a few tips to help you keep your garage door locked and safe:
- Make sure the door is equipped with a deadbolt lock. This will make it more difficult for burglars to force their way into your garage.
- If possible, install a motion-sensing light near the garage door. This will deter burglars and make it easier for you to see if someone is trying to break in.
- Always close and lock the door when you leave the house, even if you’re going out for a short time.
- If you have an automatic garage door opener, ensure it is secured with a code that only you know.
- Keep valuables and items that could be used to break into your home out of sight and out of reach of the garage door.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your garage door is secure and safe from burglars.
Conclusion
There you have it! You are now a garage door-opening expert. Remember these simple steps if you ever find yourself locked out of your house and need to get into your garage. And always be sure to keep a spare key hidden somewhere outside so this situation never happens again. Thanks for reading our post about how to unlock garage door from outside.
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