How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It could be a stressful time when you lock your keys inside the car. There are several methods to retrieve your keys, but you should always exercise extreme caution when there are children or other vulnerable people inside.

The RAC suggests you try to retrieve your keys before calling the police. These DIY methods could harm the interior of your vehicle and should be used as the last option.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake that people make. It can be even more difficult when you're far from home and are unable to easily access your vehicle. There are fortunately several options to deal with this problem. The most important thing is to stay 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 different strategies for doing this, from using coat hangers to testing out apps and other methods. It is crucial not to be overly anxious as this could cause more problems.

If you have an extra key that you have, you can use it to gain entry into your car. If your car has manual locks it is a great solution. But if it's an automated vehicle, you may need try a different approach. You can also make use of a long reach tool, that is a rod with a loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to reach the door or boot lock and unlock it.

You can also identify the vehicle's identification number by looking at the dash panel in the dashboard. This number is usually visible, but it can sometimes be hidden behind a cover. You can also locate your VIN on your insurance documents or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you are unable to locate it, you may need to call a locksmith.

You should always leave the spare car keys with someone you can trust. This will let you return to your car key lock out in the event that you lose your keys, and will save you the expense of calling an expert. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a secure location, such as your house.

It is recommended to keep a slim jim or any other lockout tool for your vehicle in your vehicle. These tools can be helpful for getting into your car in the event of an emergency, and are affordable to purchase.

Contact Your Breakdown Provider

A lot of cars come with roadside assistance, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this is your first port of contact. This usually covers the cost to call locksmiths to help you get back into your vehicle. Contact your service directly if you aren't sure of what is covered under your breakdown policy, or should you be concerned about an additional charge.

It's also worth checking if you have 'key assist' as a part of your policy. It's typically an optional feature however some companies such as Start Rescue make it a mandatory element of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll pay for a locksmith to be on hand to take your keys to your house or garage.

If you're locked keys in car service out of your car, it's important not to take any drastic measures to gain access. This could cause damage to the vehicle and may invalidate your insurance and is therefore not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows as it can make it harder to enter the vehicle.

If your vehicle isn't in danger or you have children, pets elderly people, vulnerable people who are locked in your car it's not necessary to call the emergency services. If there's a risk of heatstroke or any other health issue, you should also call the police.

If you're concerned that your keys could be locked in your car, it's a good idea for you to leave a spare keys with an individual from your family or a friend. You can make use of a smartphone app that can unlock your car without using the physical key. Many manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall offer this service. If you own a smart car you should also look at its companion app that allows you to control the most important features of your car remotely via an app for your smartphone. Many garages will make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby you, this is a possibility.

Contact a locksmith

Locking your keys in your car is a frequent occurrence, particularly for those who commute to work or school. If you are lucky enough to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that can unlock your doors it is a simple problem to resolve. If you don't own these tools, it is time to talk to the experts.

The first thing you must do if you have locked your keys in your car is to take a deep breath and try not to panic. If you panic, it will be more difficult to think clearly or find a viable solution. It's also a good idea to start looking online for locksmiths close to you that specialise in vehicle access. This will ensure that a specialist comes out to your location quickly, which will make the situation less stressful.

If you are an active member of a breakdown company like the RAC or AA then this should be your first point of contact. If they are not able to unlock car keys your car without damaging the vehicle they will suggest a professional locksmith who has experience with vehicles. Based on your policy this might be free of charge, or they may have a set cost for this kind of service.

Another option is to call a locksmith directly, but it's crucial to be cautious when doing this. You can find a vetted and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. It is also recommended whether the locksmith you choose is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which is possible online.

If they are locked out of the car opening service, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this could be more costly than hiring an expert. They may be less expensive than trying your own luck to gain access to the vehicle and do the job much faster.

If you are in a public place and feel there is a risk to other road users, or there could be children, elderly or pets in your car and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to contact the police. It is best to call your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They will be able offer you advice and support.

Call the Police

It's easy to lose your keys in the car when you're hurrying out of the door to work or to pick up your children from school, especially when you're away from home. If you're in the middle of nowhere away from anyone it's an even more challenging and risky situation to be in. It's tempting to find your keys on your own however it's not a smart idea. Trying to force locks or break windows can damage your vehicle and cost you more in the long run.

The first thing to do is assess the situation Are you in a secure area and where can you go to return to your vehicle? Check that your keys are locked inside the car. It's astonishing how many people leave their keys in their cars when they go to the shop or post office. If you're able confirm that your keys are still in the car then it's time to call for assistance.

The police will not be able to unlock your vehicle, but they are able to help you find an answer. They can offer guidance and suggest professionals, such as a locksmith or garage. They'll also be able tell you if your car has a remote lock feature and if it can be activated using your smartphone. Alternatively, you can leave a spare key with someone who is able to access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open the doors and boot.

It's not the best idea to lock your car keys inside however it is best to be prepared should this occurs. By being calm and evaluating your options, you can quickly fix the issue. To avoid lockouts in the future ensure you have an extra key. Keep the emergency number of your breakdown provider on hand and consider getting an invisible key device which can be connected to your car. Install an alarm system in your vehicle and reprogram the keys to remove access to previous owners. This will also prevent thieves from using your vehicle as a way to take their own sets of keys.