How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

If you've locked your keys inside your car the UK, it can be a stressful situation. There are several ways to get back your keys, but you should always exercise extreme caution if you have children or other vulnerable people inside.

The RAC suggests that you try to find your keys yourself before calling the police. These DIY methods may harm the interior of your car and should only be used as a last resort.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake to make. It's even more difficult if it happens when you're miles away from home and unable to easily access the vehicle. There are many ways to address this issue. The most important thing to do is stay calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to find a safe way to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are a myriad of ways for doing this, from using coat hangers to trying different methods and apps. The most important thing is not to panic, as this will only cause the situation to get worse.

If you have an extra key, you can use this to enter the car. If your car is equipped with manual locks, this is a good solution. But if you have an automatic vehicle, you may need to look for a different method. You could also use a long-reach tool, which is a type of rod that has a hook or loop on the end. It can be used to open the door or boot lock out assistance and then unlock it.

Another option is to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dash. The VIN should be visible, but it can sometimes be hidden behind the cover. You can also try to locate your VIN on your insurance paperwork or proof of insurance card. If you can't find it, a locksmith might be required.

It is advisable to leave an extra car key with someone you trust. This will allow you to get back into your car when you misplace your keys, and it will help you avoid the expense of calling an expert. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a secure location, such as your house.

Keep a slim Jim or other lockout tool for your vehicle. These tools are not expensive and can be used to gain access into your vehicle in an emergency.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

A lot of cars come with roadside assistance in the standard package, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of call. It will usually cover the cost of calling a locksmith, and getting you back into your car. Contact your provider directly if are unsure of what is covered under your breakdown policy or whether there is an additional charge.

It is also worth checking if you have "key assist" as part of your policy. It's usually an add-on that is not required however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as an essential part of their policies. They'll cover the call out of a locksmith and cover any expenses associated with transferring your keys from the recovery operator to your garage or home (if they're close) if you have keys locked myself out of my car in your car.

When you're locked out of your car, it's important not to take drastic measures to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and void your insurance. It's not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows as this can make it harder to get inside the vehicle.

Unless your car opening service is in danger or you have pets, children, elderly people, or vulnerable people locked inside it's not necessary to call the emergency services. If you're at risk of heatstroke or other health problems you should also contact the police.

If you're worried about locking your keys inside your car in future, it's a good idea leave a spare key with an individual from your family or with a friend. You can also unlock your car using an app on your smartphone. This service is provided by several manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. It is also worth considering the "companion application" when you own a car with a smart system. This will allow you to manage the features of your car through an application. There are many garages that can make a duplicate key for you, so if have a reliable mechanic in your area it could be a possibility.

Contact a locksmith

Locking your keys inside your car is a very frequent occurrence, particularly for commuters to work or school. If you're fortunate enough to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that will unlock the doors it is an easy situation to resolve. If you do not have these options now is the time to contact experts!

The first thing you need to do if you've locked the keys to your car is to breathe deeply and try not to get stressed. If you panic, it'll be harder to think clearly or find a viable solution. It is also a good idea to start searching online for locksmiths near you who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure a specialist arrives at your location quickly and make the process less stressful.

If you are an employee of a breakdown provider like the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of call. They will often be able to gain entry to your car without damaging it, however in the event that they are unable to do this, they'll recommend a locksmith with experience in vehicles. Based on your policy, it could be a free service or they may have the option of paying a fixed fee for this type of service.

You can also speak to a locksmith however, you must be cautious. A search on the internet can help you find an experienced and reliable locksmith who has been DBS checked and vetted. You can also verify online if your chosen locksmith is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.

When they are locked out of their vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this can be more costly than calling a professional. However, they can be cheaper than trying to break into your car yourself and can often get the job done faster.

If you are in a public area and you believe there is a danger to other road users, or that there are pets, elderly, or children in your car and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to call the police. However, it is recommended that you call your breakdown service provider or an expert Auto Locksmith first before doing this as they will be able to give advice and support in these situations.

Call the police

When you're on the go it's easy to lose your keys in your car. This is especially true when you're not at home. If you're located in a remote area away from anyone and everything, it's an even more challenging and dangerous situation to find yourself in. It's tempting to try and get your keys back on your own, but it is not a good idea. You can damage your car and pay more if you try to force locks or break windows.

The first thing to take note of the situation Are you in a safe place and where do you go to get back into your vehicle? Make sure your keys are secured in the car. It's amazing how many people lose their keys in their cars when they go to the store or post office. If you can verify that your keys remain in the vehicle and you're not sure, seek assistance.

The police won't be able to unlock your vehicle, but they can help you find an answer. They can give guidance and suggest an expert such as a locksmith or garage. They can also tell you if your car has an option for remote locking and if it can be activated using your phone. You can also 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 a good idea to lock the key in the car the keys to your car inside however it is best to be prepared in case this occurs. If you remain calm and evaluate your options, you can quickly solve the issue. Keep an extra car opening key in your vehicle and the emergency number of your breakdown service provider on hand and think about installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. You could also install an alarm system in your vehicle and then have the keys reprogrammed to remove any previous owner's access. This will also stop thieves from using your car as a means to steal their own sets of keys.