How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It can be a stressful experience when you lock your keys in the car. There are a variety of ways to retrieve your keys but you must always exercise extreme caution, particularly if there are young children or vulnerable individuals locked inside.

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

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or in the boot is an easy mistake to make. It's even more annoying when you're miles from home and are unable to gain access to your vehicle. There are a variety of options to deal with this problem. It is important to remain calm and assess the situation. The next step is to find a safe method to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are many ways to do this, ranging from using coathangers to apps and other methods. The most important thing to remember is not to panic, as this will only cause the situation to get worse.

If you have a spare key you can use it to get into the car. This is usually a good option for cars with manual locks, but you may need to try other methods in the event of a vehicle that is automatic. You can also employ the long reach tool which is a type rod with a loop or hook at the end. This can be used to open the door or lock for boot and open it.

You can also locate the vehicle identification number by looking at the panel on the dash. The VIN should be visible however sometimes it's hidden behind the plastic cover. You could also try to find your VIN on your insurance paperwork or proof of insurance. If you are unable to locate it, a locksmith may be required.

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 spare you from calling a professional. It is also a good idea to keep the spare keys in a secure place like your home.

It is an excellent idea to keep a slim jim, or any other lockout car tool for your vehicle, in your vehicle. These tools can be useful in gaining access to your vehicle in the event of an emergency, and are affordable to purchase.

Contact 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 it should be the first place you call. This usually covers the cost of calling a locksmith, and getting you back into your car. If you're not sure what is included in your breakdown policy, or if it will incur an extra charge, contact the provider directly to be sure.

It is also important to determine whether your policy contains "key assistance". This is often an add-on that is not required but some providers like Start Rescue include it as an essential part of their policies. They'll cover the call-out of a locksmith and pay the cost of transporting your keys from the recovery service to your garage or home (if they're close) if you have them locked in the car.

If you're locked out of your car, it's crucial not to take any drastic steps to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and could make your insurance invalid therefore it's not a good idea. It is also recommended to avoid breaking windows because this could make it even difficult to get inside.

There's no need to call emergency services unless your car is in a dangerous position or you have pets or children in your car. You should also call the police if you think there's a risk of heatstroke, or any other health issue.

If you're concerned about locking your keys inside your car in the future it's a good idea to leave the spare 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 physical key. Numerous brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall offer this service. You should also think about the 'companion application' when you own a smart car. This will allow you to control your car's key features through an app. Alternatively, many garages can make a duplicate key for you, so if have a reliable mechanic in your area then this might be a possibility.

Call a Locksmith

It is not unusual for people to lock their keys inside their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you are lucky enough to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that will unlock the doors, then this is a straightforward problem to resolve. If you don't own these tools, it is time to talk to the experts.

The first thing you should do if you've locked the keys to your car is to breathe deeply and try not to be panicked. If you panic, then it will be harder to think clearly and come up with the best solution. It is also recommended to begin looking for locksmiths online near you who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure a specialist arrives at your location quickly and make the experience less stressful.

If you are an active member of a breakdown company like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first point of contact. 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 an experienced locksmith in dealing with vehicles. Based on your policy it could be a no-cost service, or they could charge an agreed-upon price for this service.

You can also get in touch with locksmiths however, you must proceed with caution. Using an internet search will help you locate a reputable and experienced locksmith who has been DBS verified and checked. It is also recommended to check whether the locksmith you choose has been independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which is possible online.

If they are locked out of the vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this can be more costly than calling an expert. However, they can be less expensive than attempting to break into the car yourself, and will usually complete the task much quicker.

If you are in a public area and feel there is a danger to other road users, or there are pets, elderly people or children inside your car, it is best to call the police. However, it is always recommended that you call your breakdown provider or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this because they'll be able to give assistance and advice in these situations.

Contact the police

It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing out of the door to work or to collect your children from school, especially if it happens while you're away from home. This is a risky and stressful situation to be in if you're located in the middle nowhere far from any one. It's tempting to find your keys on your own however it's not a good idea. Trying to force locks or break windows can damage your vehicle and cost you more in the long run.

The first step is to examine the situation. Are you in a safe area or Locked Keys in Car UK are you able to return to your car? Then, make sure that your keys are locked inside the vehicle - it's surprising how often people leave them in their vehicles when they go to a store or the post office. If you're able to confirm your keys are in the car, it's now time to call for help.

The police won't be able to unlock my car service your vehicle, but they are able to assist you in finding a solution. They can provide guidance and suggest a professional locksmith or garage. They'll also be able to inform you if your car has the option of a remote lock and if it is able to be activated from your phone. You can leave a spare car key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then make use of an app on their smartphone to open the doors or the boot.

It's not a good idea to lock your car keys inside, but it's best to be prepared should this occurs. By being calm and evaluating your options, you will be able to quickly solve the issue. Keep an extra car key in your vehicle, the emergency number of your breakdown service provider on hand, and consider installing an invisible key device in your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. You can also install an alarm system in your vehicle and have the car keys reset to eliminate any previous owner's access. This will also prevent thieves from using your vehicle as a means to take their own sets of keys.