Home Using your vehicle What to Do If You're Locked Out of the Vehicle

What to Do If You're Locked Out of the Vehicle

Last updated on Jul 14, 2025

Being locked out of your Swift Ride vehicle can be stressful, but don't worry - we have multiple solutions to get you back on the road quickly. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for every lockout scenario.

Immediate Steps to Take

Stay Calm and Safe

  1. Ensure your safety first

    • Move to a safe, well-lit area

    • Stay with your vehicle if possible

    • Keep valuables out of sight

    • Be aware of your surroundings

  2. Verify the situation

    • Confirm you're at the correct vehicle

    • Check all doors (sometimes one is unlocked)

    • Look for keys through windows

    • Verify phone has battery

Common Lockout Scenarios

Scenario 1: Digital Key App Issues

Problem: Swift Ride app won't open or crashes Solutions:

  1. Force close and restart app

    • iOS: Swipe up and remove app

    • Android: Use recent apps button

  2. Restart your phone completely

  3. Reinstall Swift Ride app

    • Delete app

    • Re-download from store

    • Log in with credentials

Problem: Can't log in to app Solutions:

  1. Check saved credentials in email

  2. Use "Forgot Password" option

  3. Verify using correct email

  4. Contact support for password reset

Scenario 2: Bluetooth Connection Problems

Problem: Phone won't connect to vehicle Solutions:

  1. Toggle Bluetooth

    • Turn Bluetooth OFF

    • Wait 10 seconds

    • Turn Bluetooth ON

    • Try unlocking again

  2. Reset Bluetooth connections

    • Go to Settings → Bluetooth

    • "Forget" the vehicle

    • Re-pair from scratch

  3. Check distance

    • Move closer to driver door

    • Try from different angles

    • Remove phone case (metal cases interfere)

Scenario 3: Phone Problems

Problem: Phone is dead Emergency Solutions:

  1. Borrow a phone

    • Download Swift Ride app

    • Call support for temporary access

    • Log in with your credentials

    • Delete your info after use

  2. Find charging options

    • Nearby businesses

    • Portable charger

    • Another driver's car

    • Public charging stations

Problem: Phone is lost/stolen Immediate Actions:

  1. Borrow phone to call support

  2. Provide verification:

    • Name and address

    • Date of Birth

    • Security questions

  3. Get emergency remote over the air unlock

Scenario 4: Keys Locked Inside

If you accidentally locked physical keys inside:

  1. Don't attempt to break in

  2. Call or live chat Swift Ride support immediately

  3. We'll dispatch assistance

  4. Typical response: 30-60 minutes

  5. No charges for first incident

Emergency Unlock Procedures

Method 1: Support-Assisted Remote Unlock

  1. Call 24/7 Support Hotline

    • Number: 678-404-0782

    • Have ready:

      • Name and Date of Birth

      • Vehicle license plate

      • Current location

      • Drivers License

  2. Verification Process

    • Answer security questions

    • Provide booking details

    • Confirm identity

  3. Remote Unlock

    • Support unlocks remotely

    • Stay by driver door

    • Listen for unlock sound

    • Try door within 30 seconds

Method 2: On-Site Assistance

For locations with staff:

  1. Find Swift Ride representative

  2. Show ID and booking

  3. They can assist with unlock

  4. Available at major hubs only

Preventing Future Lockouts

Digital Key Best Practices

Phone Preparation

  • ✅ Keep phone charged above 20%

  • ✅ Carry portable charger

  • ✅ Enable app notifications

  • ✅ Update app regularly

  • ✅ Test key weekly

Backup Access Methods

  • ✅ Save support number in contacts

  • ✅ Screenshot booking details

  • ✅ Write down emergency code

  • ✅ Share trip details with someone

  • ✅ Know nearest Swift Ride location

Smart Habits

  1. Before exiting vehicle

    • Phone in hand or pocket

    • Check battery level

    • Ensure app is working

    • Take keys (if any)

  2. Create routines

    • Same pocket for phone

    • Check before locking

    • Test digital key daily

    • Keep charger in vehicle

Troubleshooting Guide

Quick Fixes to Try First

IssueQuick FixTimeApp frozenForce close & reopen30 secBluetooth errorToggle on/off1 minCan't connectMove closer to car30 secLogin failedCheck credentials2 minNo responseRestart phone3 min

When Quick Fixes Don't Work

Advanced Troubleshooting:

  1. Clear app cache

    • Settings → Apps → Swift Ride

    • Clear cache and data

    • Re-login required

  2. Check permissions

    • Location: Always allow

    • Bluetooth: Enabled

    • Notifications: On

  3. Network reset

    • Reset network settings

    • Re-pair Bluetooth devices

    • Reconnect to cellular

Support Response Times

Standard Support

  • Phone wait: Usually under 2 minutes

  • Remote unlock: 5-10 minutes

  • Verification: 3-5 minutes

  • Total resolution: 15 minutes average

Emergency Dispatch

  • Urban areas: 30-45 minutes

  • Suburban: 45-60 minutes

  • Rural: 60-90 minutes

  • Status updates: Every 15 minutes

Cost and Policies

What's Covered

✅ Free Services:

  • Remote unlock assistance

  • First physical lockout per year

  • App troubleshooting

  • Emergency support

Potential Charges

❌ May incur fees:

  • Multiple physical lockouts ($50)

  • Damage from break-in attempts

  • After-hours physical service

Alternative Solutions

While Waiting for Help

  1. Find shelter

    • Nearby business

    • Coffee shop

    • Public building

    • Stay visible to assistance

  2. Use the time

    • Charge phone if possible

    • Review app settings

    • Read vehicle manual

    • Plan your route

Temporary Transportation

If urgent appointment:

  • Use rideshare to destination

  • Return for vehicle later

  • Keep receipts for potential reimbursement

  • Notify support of situation

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How quickly can support unlock my car? A: Remote unlock typically takes 5-10 minutes once verified.

Q: What if I'm in an area with no cell service? A: Find nearest service area, use emergency code if available, or seek local help to call support.

Q: Can I break a window in an emergency? A: Never attempt this. Call emergency services (911) if life-threatening situation.

Q: Will I be charged for lockout assistance? A: First incident is free. Subsequent physical lockouts may incur fees.

Q: Can someone else unlock my car? A: Only authorized users on the booking. They must verify identity with support.

Emergency Contacts

Swift Ride Support

  • 24/7 Hotline: 6784040782

  • Text Support: Text "HELP" to 6784040782

  • App Chat: 24/7 availability

  • Email: [email protected]

When to Call 911

Only in true emergencies:

  • Child or pet locked inside

  • Medical emergency

  • Dangerous situation

  • Extreme weather conditions

After Resolution

Follow-Up Steps

  1. Test your digital key

  2. Save emergency contacts

  3. Report any issues

  4. Update app if needed

  5. Thank support team

Prevent Recurrence

  • Practice using digital key

  • Set up backup access

  • Keep phone charged

  • Know your options

  • Stay prepared