How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It could be a stressful time if you lock your keys in the car. There are a variety of methods to retrieve your keys, however you must always exercise extreme caution if there are children or other people who are vulnerable inside.

The RAC suggests that you try to find your keys on your own before calling the police. These DIY methods may damage the interior of your car and should be only used as the last option.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake to make. It's even more inconvenient especially if you're far away from home and are unable to get into the vehicle. There are several solutions to this issue. It is crucial to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to figure out how to get a key out of a locked car to get to get out of the vehicle without causing any damage to it. There are many methods to accomplish this, from using coat hangers to apps and other methods. It is essential not to panic as this will only make things worse.

You can make use of a spare car key to unlock the vehicle. This is usually a good alternative for cars that have locks that are manual, however you might need to consider other tactics in the case of a car that is automated. You can also try to make use of a long-reach tool which is a kind of rod with loop or hook on the end. This can be used to reach the door or boot lock and then unlock it.

You can also try to find the vehicle identification number by looking at the panel in the dashboard. The VIN should be visible however, sometimes it's hidden behind the plastic cover. You can also try to locate your VIN on your insurance documents or proof of insurance. If you are unable to locate it, you might have to contact a locksmith.

You should always leave a spare car key with someone who you trust. You can then access your vehicle if you've forgotten your keys. This will prevent you from having to call a professional. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a secure location, like your home.

Keep an extra slim Jim or another lockout tool for your vehicle. These tools can be useful for getting into your car in the event of an emergency, and they are not expensive to purchase.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is offered in a number of cars as a standard. If you are an AA member or AA or RAC, this should be the first number you dial. This will typically cover the cost of contacting a locksmith and getting you back in your car. If you're not sure what's covered under your breakdown policy, or if it will cost extra you should contact the provider directly to confirm.

You should also check if your policy includes "key assistance". It's typically an optional feature however some companies such as Start Rescue make it a regular feature of their policies. They'll cover the call-out of a locksmith and cover the cost of transporting your left keys inside car from the recovery operator to your garage or home (if they're closer) when you've got keys locked in your car.

If you're locked out of your vehicle, it's vital not to take any drastic measures to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and may cause insurance to be cancelled, so it's never a good idea. It is also recommended to be careful not to break windows, since this could make it even more difficult to enter the vehicle.

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

If you're worried that your keys might be locked in your car, it is a good idea for you to leave a spare keys with an individual from your family or a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that will unlock your car without a physical key. This service is provided by a variety of manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a car with a smart feature is a good idea to look at its companion app, which will allow you to control the most important features of your vehicle remotely using an app for your smartphone. Alternatively, many garages can make a duplicate key for you, so if have a trusted mechanic nearby then this could be a viable option.

Contact a locksmith

It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys inside their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you happen to have a spare key or an app for your smart phone that can unlock your doors and open a car the car, then this is an easy situation to solve. If you don't have these tools, it is time to call the experts.

Take a deep breath and don't panic if you lock your keys inside your vehicle. If you panic, it will be more difficult to think clearly and come up with an answer. It is also an excellent idea to begin looking online for locksmiths close to you that specialise in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional arrives quickly and make the situation less stressful.

It is best to contact your breakdown provider first if you are a member. If they are unable unlock your car without damaging the vehicle they will recommend an experienced locksmith with expertise with vehicles. Based on your policy, it could be free of charge, or they might charge an agreed-upon cost for this kind of service.

Another option is to speak with an individual locksmith, but it's crucial to take your time when you contact a locksmith. Using an internet search will help you locate a reputable and experienced locksmith who has been DBS checked and vetted. It is also recommended to check whether the locksmith you choose has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which is possible online.

When they are locked out of the car opener service, many people turn to their local garage. However, this can be more costly than hiring a professional. However, they can still be cheaper than trying to gain entry into the vehicle yourself and can usually complete the task much faster.

If you are in a public space and believe that there is a risk to other road users, or that there are pets, elderly people or children inside your car, it is best to contact the police. It is recommended to call your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They will be able offer assistance and advice.

Call the Police

It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing out of the door to work or to pick up your children from school, especially when you're away from home. If you're located in a remote area far from any one, this is an even more challenging and risky situation to find yourself in. It's tempting to find your keys by yourself, but it is not a wise idea. Intentionally forcing locks or break windows can cause damage to your vehicle, and cost you more in the end.

The first thing you need to do is evaluate the situation Are you in a secure area and where do you go to get back in your car? Make sure you double-check that your keys are locked inside - it's surprising how often people leave keys in their vehicles when they go to a store or the post office. If you're able to confirm your keys remain in the car, it's time to call for help.

If the police cannot unlock your car, they can help you to find a solution. They can provide guidance and suggest a professional, such as a locksmith or garage. They can also tell you if your vehicle features an option for remote locking and if it can be activated by your phone. 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.

It's not ideal to lock the keys to your car inside however it is best to be prepared in case this happens. By being calm and evaluating your options, you can quickly resolve the problem. Keep a spare car key in your car as well as the emergency number of your breakdown service provider handy, and consider installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. Install an alarm system in your car and reprogram the keys to disable access from previous owners. This will prevent thieves from using the vehicle to steal your keys.