How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It can be a stressful experience when you lock your keys inside the car. There are a variety of ways to retrieve your keys but you must always exercise extreme caution, particularly when there are children or vulnerable people trapped in.

The RAC recommends that you try to locate your keys prior to calling the police. These DIY methods can damage the interior of your vehicle and should only be used as a last option.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake to make. It's even more difficult when you're miles away from home and are unable to gain access to your vehicle. There are a variety of solutions to this problem. The most important thing is to remain at peace and analyze the situation. Next, you need to figure out a secure way to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are many ways to do this, from using coathangers to apps and other methods. The most important thing to remember is not to panic, as this can only make the situation worse.

If you have an extra key you can use it to gain entry into your car. This is usually a good option for cars with locks that are manual, however you might need to consider different methods in the case of a car that is automated. You can also make use of a long reach tool, that is a rod with hook or loop at the end. This tool can be used to open the door or boot lock and then unlock it.

You can also try to identify the vehicle's identification number by looking at the dash panel on the dash. The VIN should be visible, but sometimes it's hidden behind a plastic cover. You can also try to locate your VIN on your insurance paperwork or proof of insurance. If you are unable to locate it, a locksmith could be required.

It is always recommended to leave an extra key with someone you trust. This will allow you to get back into your car in the event that you lose your keys. It will save you the expense of calling a professional. You may also want to keep the spare keys in a secure place like your home.

It's also a good idea to keep a slim jim, or other tools for locking out your car, in your vehicle. These tools are cheap and are able to be used to get into your vehicle in case of emergency.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Many cars come with roadside assistance as standard and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of contact. It will typically cover the cost of calling locksmiths to help you get back in your car. If you're uncertain about what is included in your breakdown policy or if it's going to cost extra you should contact the provider directly to be sure.

You should also check whether your policy contains "key assistance". This is often an optional add-on, but some providers like Start Rescue include it as an integral part of their policies. They'll pay for the call-out of a locksmith and cover the cost of transporting your keys from the recovery operator boot to your home or garage (if they're closer) if you have them locked in your car.

It's important to not take extreme measures while locked outside your vehicle. This can damage the vehicle and void your insurance. It's not a great idea. Avoid breaking windows since this will make it more difficult to get into the vehicle.

There's no reason to contact emergency services unless your vehicle is in a dangerous position or you have children or pets locked inside. If there's a chance of heatstroke or other health issues, you should also call the police.

If you're worried that your keys will be locked in your car, it's recommended to leave a spare with someone in your family or with a friend. You can also unlock your car with a smartphone application. This service is offered by a variety of manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a smart car, it's also worth looking into its 'companion app' that allows you to control the most important features of your car remotely through an app that you can download to your phone. There are many garages that can make a duplicate key for you, so if you have a trusted mechanic close by it could be a possibility.

Call a Locksmith

It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys in their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you have an extra car key or an application for your smartphone that opens the doors, it's a simple situation to solve. However, if you do not have these options now is the time to call in experts!

The first thing you need to do if you have locked your keys inside your car is to take a deep breath and try not to panic. If you panic it will be difficult to think straight or find a viable solution. You can also look online for locksmiths in your area that specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a professional will arrive quickly and make the process less stressful.

If you are an active member of a breakdown company like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first port of call. They will often be able to gain entry into your vehicle without causing any damage to it, however in the event that they are unable to do this, they'll recommend a locksmith who is experienced in vehicles. This service may be provided free of charge or for the cost of a fixed amount, based on your insurance policy.

Another option is to contact the locksmith directly, however it is important to be cautious when doing this. Searching on the internet will help you locate an experienced and reliable locksmith who is DBS verified and checked. It is also advisable to confirm that your chosen locksmith is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which is possible online.

If they are locked out of the car, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this could be more expensive than calling a professional. They may be less expensive than trying your own luck to unlock the vehicle and do the job much faster.

If you are in a public area and believe that there is a danger to other road users, or that there may be pets, elderly, or children in your car, it is best to call the police. However, it is always recommended to call your breakdown company or an expert Auto Locksmith first before doing this as they will be able to give assistance and advice in these instances.

Call the police

When you're on the go it's easy to forget keys in your car. This is especially true if you're not at home. This is a very risky and difficult situation to find yourself in if you're located in the middle of nowhere and miles from anyone. It's tempting to try and retrieve your keys by yourself, but it is not a wise idea. You may damage your car and end up paying more money if you try to force locks or smash windows.

The first thing you should take note of the situation Are you in a secure location and where can you go to get back in your car? Make sure your keys are secured in the car. It's astonishing how many people leave their keys in their cars when they go to the store or the post office. If you're able to confirm that your keys are still in the vehicle and you're not sure, contact help.

The police will not be in a position to unlock your vehicle, but they will help you find the solution. They can provide guidance and suggest professionals, such as locksmiths or garages. They can also inform you if your car features a remote locking feature and if it can be activated via your smartphone. You can also leave an extra key with someone who is able to access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to open the doors and boot.

While it's never ideal to lock your keys inside your car, it's better to be prepared for this scenario. By staying calm and assessing your options, you'll be able to quickly fix the issue. Keep a spare car key in your vehicle, the emergency number of your breakdown service provider in case of need and think about installing an invisible key device in your car repairs open near me to prevent future lockouts. You can also install an alarm system on your vehicle and then have the keys reset to block any previous owner's access. This will also prevent thieves from using your vehicle as a way to take their own sets of keys.