How to Break a Car Window in case of Emergency

In an emergency, being able to break a car window quickly can mean the difference between life and death. Whether you’re trapped in a sinking vehicle, need to rescue someone in trouble, or are facing another urgent situation, knowing the best way to break a car window can be a crucial skill.

This guide will walk you through the tools to break a car window, everyday items you can use in a pinch, and the correct techniques to escape a dangerous situation — especially if you’re in a sinking vehicle.

Items You Can Use to Break a Car Window

If you ever find yourself needing to break a car window from inside or outside without a specialised tool, some everyday objects can help.

1. Your Car’s Headrest

Most car headrests have metal rods that can be removed and used to break the glass. To use it:

• Pull the headrest out of the seat by pressing the release buttons.
• Insert one of the metal rods into the gap between the window and the door frame.
• Use leverage to pry the window outward until it shatters.

2. A Spark Plug

A small but highly effective trick is using a spark plug. If you have access to one (from your car engine or a roadside garage), here’s what to do:

• Break the ceramic part off the spark plug.
• Throw a small piece at the side window. The impact will shatter it almost instantly.

3. A Hammer, Wrench, or Screwdriver

If you have a toolbox or emergency maintenance kit in your car, a heavy metal object like a hammer, wrench, or screwdriver can work.

• Aim for the edges of the window rather than the centre — it’s easier to break.
• Use quick, forceful strikes.

4. Your Elbow or Foot (Last Resort!)

If you’re in a desperate situation with no tools, you might try using your elbow or foot:

• Kick or strike the bottom corner of the side window, not the centre.
• If using your foot, brace yourself against the seat or door for leverage.
• Keep in mind this is the hardest and least effective method, so only try it if nothing else is available.

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Emergency Tools for Breaking a Car Window

For the easiest way to break a car window, its best to keep a dedicated emergency tool in your car. Here are some of the most effective ones:

1. Emergency Window Breaker & Seatbelt Cutter

Many compact emergency tools combine a glass breaker with a seatbelt cutter. These tools usually feature a spring-loaded punch or a metal tip designed to shatter glass with minimal force. Keep one in your glovebox or door pocket for easy access.

You can purchase an Emergency Window Breaker & Seatbelt Cutter at this link.

2. Spring-Loaded Glass Punch

A small but powerful tool that uses a spring mechanism to create a sharp impact, instantly breaking the glass. It requires little strength, making it ideal for all drivers.

You can purchase a Spring-Loaded Glass Punch at this link.

3. Tactical Flashlight with Glass Breaker

Some high-quality flashlights come with a reinforced tip designed for breaking windows.

You can purchase a Tactical Flashlight with Glass Breaker at this link.

4. Emergency Hammer

A simple but highly effective tool, usually with a double-sided metal head, designed to break windows in one strong strike. Most come with a mounting bracket for easy storage in your car.

You can purchase an Emergency Hammer at this link.

5. Keychain Glass Breakers

Some keychains include a small but powerful punch tool designed to break glass in an emergency. They’re convenient and portable, ensuring you always have a way to escape if needed.

You can purchase a Keychain Glass Breaker at this link.

Car Safety Tips to Protect you and your Family >>

How to Escape a Sinking Vehicle

One of the most terrifying scenarios imaginable is being trapped in a sinking car. Water pressure makes it nearly impossible to open the doors, and time is critical. Should you ever find yourself in this extreme situation, follow these steps .

1. Stay Calm and Act Fast

The moment your car hits water, you have about 30-60 seconds before it becomes too difficult to exit due to water pressure. Panic wastes time, so focus on acting quickly.

2. Unbuckle Your Seatbelt Immediately

Before anything else, remove your seatbelt. If it’s stuck, use an emergency seatbelt cutter if you have one.

3. Open or Break a Window Before Water Rises Too High

If your car’s windows are automatic, try rolling them down immediately. Some cars allow you to do this for a short time before water shorts the electrical system. If the windows won’t roll down, use an emergency glass breaker or another object to smash the side window—not the windscreen (which is nearly impossible to break). If you’re struggling, use both feet to kick the bottom corner of the window.

4. Exit Feet First and Swim to Safety

Once the window is broken, take a deep breath and exit through the opening. If possible, remove children or passengers first. Push yourself out feet first to avoid injury. Swim to the surface and call for help once you’re safe.

How to Drive Safe on Flooded Roads >>

What If You Can’t Open or Break the Window?

If all windows are stuck and you can’t break them, wait until the car fills almost completely with water. Once the pressure inside the car equalises with the water outside, the doors should open more easily. Take a deep breath, open the door, and swim to safety. Being prepared for emergencies is essential for every driver. Whether you keep a window-breaking tool in your glovebox or just remember these survival techniques, knowing the best way to break a car window could one day save your life or someone else’s.

Make sure to familiarise yourself with your car’s features and store emergency tools where you can easily reach them. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to break a car window from inside or outside, you’ll be ready to act quickly and effectively. We hope you found this guide enlightening and reassuring and that you’re feeling a little bit more prepared should you find yourself in an emergency situation like those outlined above.

 

Check the Autoglass® blog again soon for more explainers, tips and guides for all things motoring.

Safe travels!