How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It can be stressful if you lock your keys in the car. There are many options to retrieve your keys but you must always exercise extreme caution, especially if there are young children or vulnerable people trapped inside.

The RAC suggests that you attempt to locate your keys prior to calling the police. These DIY methods could damage the interior of your car unlock services and should only be used as a last option.

Do It Yourself

It's easy to lock your keys in the car's boot or in the trunk. It's even more inconvenient if it happens when you're miles away from home and unable to easily access the vehicle. There are fortunately, several options to deal with this issue. The most important thing is to stay at peace and analyze the situation. Next, you need to figure out a secure way to exit the vehicle without causing damage to it. There are many different strategies to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to testing out different apps and methods. It is crucial not to panic, as this can make things worse.

If you have a spare key you can use it to enter the car. This is usually a great alternative for cars that have manual locks, but you may need to try different methods in the case of an automatic car. You can also make use of the long reach tool that is a rod with a loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to unlock the door lock or boot.

Another option is to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) by checking the dash panel on the dash. This number should be visible, however it can sometimes be hidden behind a cover. You can also try to locate your VIN on your insurance paperwork or proof of insurance card. If you are unable to locate it, a locksmith could be needed.

It is always recommended to leave a spare key with someone you trust. You can then get into your vehicle if you have lost your keys. This will save you from having to call an expert. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a secure location, like your house.

It is recommended to keep a slim jim or other tools for locking out your car in your vehicle. These tools are cheap and can be used to gain access into your vehicle in case of emergency.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

A lot of cars come with roadside assistance and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of call. This will typically cover the cost of calling a locksmith, and getting you back in your vehicle. If you're uncertain about the coverage of your breakdown insurance policy or if it's likely to cost extra make contact with the company directly to confirm.

It's also worth checking whether you have 'key assist' as a part of your policy. It's often an optional feature, but some companies like Start Rescue make it a mandatory part of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll hire a locksmith to arrive and take your keys to your home or garage.

If you're locked out of your vehicle, it's vital not to take extreme measures to gain access. This could cause damage to your vehicle and invalidate insurance. It's not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows as this will make it more difficult to enter the vehicle.

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

If you're worried about locking your keys inside your car in future, it's a good idea to leave the spare key with someone in your family or a friend. You can make use of a smartphone app that will unlock your car without the use of a physical key. Many manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall offer this service. If you own a car with a smart feature, it's also worth looking into its companion app which allows you to control the most important features of your car remotely via an app that you can download to your phone. There are many garages that can create a duplicate key on behalf of you, so if you have a reliable mechanic in your area then this could be a possibility.

Call a locksmith

Locking your keys in your car is a frequent occurrence, particularly for commuters to school or work. If you happen to have a spare key or an app for your smartphone that can unlock your doors, then this is an easy situation to solve. However, if you do not have these options, then it is time to call in the experts!

Take a deep breath and don't panic if you lock your keys in your car. If you panic, it will be even harder to think straight and come up with the best solution. It's also recommended to begin looking online for locksmiths close to you that specialise in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a skilled locksmith comes out to your location quickly, which makes the process less stressful.

It is best to contact your breakdown service first if you are already a member. If they are unable open your car without damaging the vehicle they will suggest a professional locksmith who has experience with vehicles. Based on your policy it could be a free service or they may have the option of paying a fixed cost for this kind of service.

You can also contact a locksmith but be cautious. You can find an accredited and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. You can also check online if your chosen locksmith is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.

If they're locked out of their car, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this could be more expensive than calling an expert. However, they can be less expensive than attempting to gain entry into the vehicle yourself, and will usually complete the task faster.

If you are in a public space and you believe there is a risk to other road users, or that there may be pets, elderly, or children in your car and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to contact the police. However, it is recommended that you call your breakdown provider or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to offer assistance and advice in these situations.

Call the Police

It's easy to lose your keys in the car when you're hurrying out of the door to work or to collect your children from school, particularly when you're away from home. This is a risky and stressful situation to be in if you are in the middle of nowhere and miles from anyone. You may be tempted try to find your keys on your own but this is generally not a good idea. Doing anything to force locks or break windows can cause damage to your vehicle and cost you more in the long run.

The first thing you need to do is assess the situation is whether you are in a safe place and where do you go to get back in your car? Check that your keys are locked inside the car. It's amazing how many people forget their keys in their cars while they go to the store or the post office. If you can verify that your keys are still in the car, it's time to call for assistance.

While the police can't unlock your car, they will help you to find an answer. They can provide suggestions and recommend professionals, such as locksmiths or garages. They will also be able tell you if your vehicle has the option of a remote lock and if it is able to be activated via 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 phone to open the doors or the boot.

It's not a good idea to lock your car keys inside however it is best to be prepared in case this happens. By being calm and evaluating your options, you'll be able to quickly fix the issue. To prevent future automotive Lockouts, always carry a spare key, keep the emergency number of your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and think about purchasing a key lock that attaches to your car. You could also install an alarm system in your vehicle and have the keys reset to block any previous owner's access. This will also prevent thieves from using your vehicle as a vehicle to steal their own sets keys.