how to unlock your car door to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

If you have locked your keys inside your car the UK, it can be an extremely stressful situation. There are many ways to retrieve your keys, however you must always exercise extreme caution when there are children or other vulnerable people inside.

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

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake that people make. It's even more annoying when you're far from home and can't get into the vehicle. There are fortunately, several options to deal with this problem. The most important thing is to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to figure out a way to get out of the car without causing damage to it. There are many different strategies to accomplish this, from using coat hangers to testing different methods and apps. The most important thing is to not panic, as this will only cause the situation to get worse.

You can use a spare car key to open the vehicle. If your car is equipped with manual locks, this is a good solution. But if you have an automatic vehicle, you may need try a different approach. You can also use an extended reach tool, which is a rod that has an end loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to unlock the door lock or boot.

Another option is to try to locate the vehicle identification number (VIN) by checking the dash panel on the dash. The number should be displayed however sometimes it's hidden behind an opaque plastic cover. You could also try to locate your VIN on your insurance form or proof of insurance card. If you are unable to locate it, a locksmith could be needed.

Always leave the spare car keys with someone you can trust. This will enable you to return to your car if you forget your keys, and it will reduce the cost of calling a professional. You should also think about putting the spare key in a safe place, such as your house.

Keep an extra slim Jim or another automotive lockouts lockout tool in your car. These tools can be useful in gaining access to your vehicle in the situation of an emergency and they are inexpensive to purchase.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Many cars have roadside assistance as standard, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of contact. It will usually cover the cost of contacting a locksmith and getting you back in your vehicle. Contact your provider directly if are unsure of what is covered under your breakdown policy, or whether there is an additional cost.

It's also worth checking if you have 'key assist' as part of your policy. It's usually an optional add-on however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as an integral part of their policies. They'll cover the call-out of a locksmith, and will cover the cost of transporting your keys from the recovery company to your home or garage (if they're close) if you have them locked in your car.

If you're accidentally locked keys in car out of your vehicle, it's vital not to take extreme measures to gain access. This could cause damage to the vehicle and may make your insurance invalid, so it's never a good idea. You should also be careful not to break windows, as this can make it more difficult to enter the vehicle.

If your car is not in a danger zone or you have pets, children, elderly people, or vulnerable people locked in the car it's not necessary to call the emergency services. You should also call the police if there is an increased risk of heatstroke or other health issues.

If you're worried about locking your keys inside your car in the future it's a good idea to leave an extra key with an individual from your family or with a friend. You can make use of a smartphone app that will unlock your car without the use of a physical key. Many manufacturers, including BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall offer this service. If you own a car with a smart feature, it's also worth looking at its companion app which allows you to control key features of your vehicle remotely using an app that you can download to your phone. Additionally, many garages will make a duplicate key for you, so if you have a trusted mechanic nearby then this could be an option.

Call a Locksmith

It is not unusual for people to lock their keys inside their cars, particularly those who commute. If you are lucky enough to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that will unlock your doors, then this is a simple problem to resolve. However, if you do not have these options now is the time to call in experts!

Take a deep breath and don't panic if you put your keys in your vehicle. If you panic, then it will be even harder to think clearly and find the best solution. It is also recommended to begin looking online for locksmiths close to you who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a skilled locksmith comes out to your location quickly, which will make the process less stressful.

If you are a member of a breakdown provider like the RAC or AA then this should be your first point of contact. If they are not able to open your vehicle without damaging it they will suggest a professional locksmith who has expertise with vehicles. Based on your policy, it could be a free service or they might charge the option of paying a fixed cost for this kind of service.

You can also get in touch with a locksmith but be cautious. You can locate a vetted and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. It is also recommended to check that the locksmith you select has been independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be done online.

If they are locked out of car help out of their vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this could be more costly than calling an expert. They can be cheaper than trying your luck to unlock the vehicle, and they will do the job much faster.

If you are in a public space and believe that there is a danger to other road users, or there may be pets, elderly people or children inside your car you should call the police. However, it is always recommended to call your breakdown provider or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to offer assistance and guidance in these scenarios.

Contact the police

When you're on the go it's easy to forget your keys in your car. This is especially true if you're not at home. If you're in a remote area miles from anyone, this is an even more challenging and risky situation to find yourself in. It's tempting to try and find your keys on your own, but it is not a wise idea. You may damage your car and pay more money if you attempt to force locks or smash windows.

The first step is to examine the situation. Are you in a safe area and where can you go to return to your vehicle? Check that your keys are locked in the car. It's astonishing how many people leave their keys in their cars while they go to the store or post office. If you're able to confirm your keys are still in the car, it's now time to call for assistance.

The police will not be capable of unlocking your vehicle, but they can help you find a solution. They can provide advice and recommend professionals, like a garage or locksmith. They can also inform you if your vehicle has the option of locking via remote and if this can be activated by your phone. You can also leave an extra key with someone who has the ability to access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open the doors and boot.

Although it's not a good idea to lock your keys in your car, it's best to be prepared for the possibility. By staying calm and assessing your options, you will be able to quickly resolve the problem. Keep a spare car key in your car as well as the emergency number of your breakdown service provider on hand and think about installing a key lock hidden on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. You can also install an alarm system for your vehicle and then have the keys reprogrammed to remove any previous owner's access. This will also prevent thieves from using your vehicle as a way to take their own sets of keys.