How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It can be stressful when you lock your keys inside the car. There are a variety of ways to get your keys back however, you must use extreme caution, particularly when there are children or vulnerable individuals trapped inside.

The RAC suggests you try to recover your keys before calling the police. DIY methods can damage the interior of your vehicle and should only be only used as an option last resort.

Do It Yourself

It's easy to lock your keys in the car's boot or in the trunk. It's more frustrating if you are miles away from your home and cannot easily access your vehicle. There are many solutions to this issue. It is important to remain calm and analyze the situation. The next step is to try to figure out how to get out of the car without causing damage to it. There are many different strategies to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to testing out apps and other methods. The most important thing is not to panic, as this will only make the situation worse.

If you have a spare key, you can use this to enter the car. This is usually a great option for cars that have locks that are manual, however you might need to consider other tactics in the case of a vehicle that is automatic. You can also make use of a long reach tool, that is a rod with an end loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to unlock the boot or door lock.

Another option is to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dashboard. The number should be displayed however, sometimes it's hidden behind the plastic cover. You can also find your VIN on your insurance documents or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you can't find it, a locksmith might be required.

It is always an excellent idea to leave a spare key with someone you trust. This will allow you to return to your car when you misplace your keys, and will help you avoid the expense of calling a professional. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a secure place, such as your house.

Keep a slim Jim or any other lockout car tool for your car. These tools are useful to gain access to your car in the case of an emergency and are affordable to purchase.

Contact Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is included in many cars as standard. If you're a member of AA or RAC, this should be the first call you make. This usually covers the cost of calling a locksmith and getting you back in your vehicle. Contact your service directly if you are unsure of the coverage of your breakdown policy, or whether there is an additional charge.

It's also worth checking if you have "key assist" included as a part of your policy. It's often an optional feature, but some companies like Start Rescue make it a regular feature of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll pay for a locksmith to come out and transport your keys to your home or garage.

If you're locked out of your car, it's important not to take drastic steps to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and may cause insurance to be cancelled, so it's never a good idea. You should also avoid breaking windows as this can make it even difficult to get inside.

There's no reason to call emergency services unless your car is in a dangerous position or you have pets or children in the car. It is also advisable to call the police if you think there's the possibility of suffering from heatstroke or other health issues.

If you are worried that your keys could be locked in your car, it is recommended to leave a spare keys with someone in your family or with a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that will unlock your car without keys that are physically present. This service is provided by a variety of manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a smart car is a good idea to look at its companion app which allows you to control the most important features of your car remotely via an app that you can download to your phone. Additionally, many garages will make a duplicate key for you, so if you have a reliable mechanic in your area then this might be a viable option.

Contact a locksmith

It is not unusual for people to lock their keys inside their cars, particularly those who commute. If you happen to have a spare key or an app for your smart phone that will unlock your doors, then this is a straightforward problem to solve. If you don't own these tools, it's time to talk to the experts.

The first thing you must do if you've locked your keys in your car is to take a deep breath and try not to panic. If you panic, it will be harder to think straight or think of a suitable solution. It is also a good idea to start looking for locksmiths online near you that specialise in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional arrives quickly and make the experience less stressful.

If you are an employee of a breakdown service like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first point of contact. If they are unable to unlock door car your car without damaging the vehicle, they will recommend an experienced locksmith with previous experience working with vehicles. This service can be offered for free or at the cost of a fixed amount, based on the insurance policy you have.

Another option is to speak with the locksmith directly, however it's important that you take your time when you contact a locksmith. You can find an accredited and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. You can also verify online if your chosen locksmith is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.

Many people also go to garages in their area in the event of being locked out of their car but this is more expensive than calling in professionals. However, they can be less expensive than attempting to gain entry into the vehicle yourself, and will often get the job done much quicker.

If you are in a public area and you believe there is a risk to other road users, or that there are children, elderly or pets inside your car you should contact the police. It is best to call your breakdown company or an Auto locksmith near me open now specialist first. They can offer assistance and advice.

Contact the police

If you're on the move, it's easy to leave keys in your car. This is especially true if not at home. If you're located in a remote area far from any one and everything, it's an even more challenging and risky situation to find yourself in. It's tempting to get your keys back on your own, but it is not a good idea. You may damage your car and pay more money if you try to force locks or smash windows.

The first step is to take a look at the situation. Are you in a secure location and where can you go to return to your vehicle? Make sure your keys are locked in the car. It's amazing how many people leave their keys in their cars while they go to the shop or post office. If you're able confirm that your keys remain in the car, it's time to seek help.

The police will not be able to unlock your vehicle, but they are able to help you find an answer. They can provide advice and recommend professionals, such as locksmiths or garages. They can also tell you if your vehicle has a remote locking feature and if it is activated via your smartphone. Alternately, you can leave the spare key with someone who can access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open a car door the doors and boot.

It's not the best idea to lock the keys to your car inside however it is best to be prepared should this occurs. You can swiftly solve the problem by staying calm and assessing all possible options. To prevent future lockouts, always carry an extra key. Keep the emergency number for your breakdown service on hand and consider purchasing a hidden key device which can be connected to your car. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram keys to disable access to previous owners. This will also prevent thieves from using your car as a way to steal their own sets keys.