How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It could be a stressful time if you lock your keys inside the car. There are several ways to get back your keys, however you must take extreme caution when there are children or other vulnerable individuals inside.

The RAC suggests that you attempt to recover your keys before calling the police. These DIY methods may cause damage to the interior of your car and should be only used as a last resort.

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 miles from home and are unable to get into your car. There are fortunately various options for dealing with this problem. It is crucial to remain calm and evaluate the situation. Next, you need to figure out a secure way to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are a variety of strategies to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to trying out apps and other methods. The most important thing is to not be in a panic, as this will only increase the severity of the problem.

You can use a spare car key to open the vehicle. This is usually a great alternative for cars that have manual locks, but you might need to consider other methods in the event of a vehicle that is automatic. You could also make use of a long-reach tool which is a kind of rod with a hook or loop on the end. This can be used to open the door or boot lock and open it.

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

You should always leave a spare car key with someone who you can trust. It is then possible to get into your vehicle if you have forgotten your keys. This will prevent you from having to call an expert. You might also consider leaving the spare in a safe location like your home.

Keep a slim Jim or other locksmith tools for your car. These tools are not expensive and are able to be used to get into your vehicle in an emergency.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is provided in a number of cars as a standard. If you are a member of AA or RAC it should be the first number you dial. This will typically cover the cost of calling a locksmith, and getting you back in your vehicle. If you're unsure about the coverage of your breakdown insurance policy or if it's going to incur an extra charge you should contact the provider directly to confirm.

It is also important to determine whether your policy provides "key assistance". This is often an optional extra 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 will cover any costs associated with transporting your keys from the recovery company to your home or garage (if they're closer) when you've got keys locked in your car.

It's important to not take drastic measures when you're locked outside your vehicle. This could cause damage to your vehicle and invalidate your insurance. It's not a great idea. Avoid breaking windows since this can make it harder to get inside the vehicle.

If your vehicle isn't in a danger zone, or you have pets, children, elderly people, or vulnerable people locked in the car there's no need to contact emergency services. If you're at risk of heatstroke or other health issues, you should also call the police.

If you're concerned about locking your left keys inside car in your car in the future it's a good idea leave the spare key with a family member or friend. You can also unlock your car with an app on your smartphone. Numerous manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall provide this service. 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 vehicle remotely using an app for your smartphone. Alternatively, many garages can make a duplicate key for you, so if have a trusted mechanic close by it could be a possibility.

Call a Locksmith

Locking your keys inside your car is a very frequent occurrence, boot particularly for those who commute to work or school. If you have an extra car key or an app for your smartphone that unlocks the doors, it's a simple situation to solve. If you don't own the tools, it's time to talk to experts.

Take a deep breath, and don't worry if you put your keys in your vehicle. If you panic, it will be harder to think straight or come up with a good solution. It's also an excellent idea to begin looking for locksmiths online near you that specialise in vehicle access. This will ensure a specialist will arrive quickly and make the experience less stressful.

You should call your breakdown service first if you are an active member. They are usually able to gain entry into your vehicle without causing any damage to it, however if they are not able to then they will likely recommend a locksmith with experience in dealing with vehicles. This service may be provided free of charge or for a fixed fee, depending on your insurance policy.

Another option is to call an individual locksmith, but it is important to do this with caution. A search on the internet can help you find a reliable and experienced locksmith who has been DBS verified and vetted. It is also recommended to check that the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.

If they're locked out of their vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this can be more costly than hiring a professional. They may be less expensive than attempting your own luck to unlock the vehicle, and they will complete the task much quicker.

If you are in a public place and feel there is a danger to other road users, or there are children, boot elderly or pets in your vehicle and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to contact the police. It is recommended to call your breakdown provider, or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can offer assistance and advice.

Call the Police

It's easy to lose your keys in the car when you're rushing out of the door to work or to collect your kids from school, especially when you're away from home. If you're in a remote area miles from anyone and everything, it's an even more challenging and dangerous situation to find yourself in. You may be tempted to attempt to find your keys on your own however this is generally not a good idea. You could damage your vehicle and pay more money if you try to force locks or smash windows.

First, you should take a look at the situation. Are you in a safe area? Where can you go for a return trip to your vehicle? Make sure you double-check that your keys are locked inside - it's shocking how often people forget to lock them in their vehicles when they visit an establishment or post office. If you're able to confirm that your keys are in the vehicle and you're not sure, contact help.

If the police cannot unlock your car, they can assist you in finding the solution. They can give you advice and recommend professionals, like a garage or locksmith. They can also inform you if your vehicle features a remote locking feature and if it can be activated via your smartphone. You can also leave a spare key with someone who can 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 this scenario. You can easily resolve the issue by remaining at peace and evaluating all possibilities. To prevent future lockouts Always carry an extra key, keep the emergency number of your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and think about purchasing a key lock which can be connected to your car. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram keys to remove access to previous owners. This will prevent thieves from using your vehicle to steal your keys.