How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It could be a stressful time when you lock your keys inside the car. There are several methods to retrieve your keys, but you must take extreme caution if you have children or other vulnerable individuals inside.

The RAC suggests you try to locate your keys prior to 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 an easy mistake to make. It's even more difficult when you're miles away from home and unable to gain access to your vehicle. There are fortunately a few options for dealing with this issue. The most important thing is to stay calm and assess the situation. The next step is to try to figure out how to get out of the car without damaging it. There are a myriad of ways to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to trying different methods and apps. It is essential not to be overly anxious as this could make things worse.

If you have an extra key that you have, you can use it to gain entry into your car. This is usually a great 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 try to use a long-reach tool, which is a kind of rod with loop or hook on the end. This can be used to open the door or boot lock and then unlock it.

Another option is to find the vehicle identification number (VIN) by taking a look at the dashboard panel on the dash. This number should be displayed however, sometimes it's hidden behind an opaque plastic cover. You can also find your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on your insurance proof card. If you can't find it, you might have to contact an locksmith.

Always leave a spare car key with someone you trust. You can then get into your vehicle if you've forgotten your keys. This will spare you from calling an expert. It is also a good idea to keep the spare keys in a safe place like your home.

It's also a good idea to keep a slim jim or other tools for locking out your car, in your vehicle. These tools are inexpensive and are able to be used to get into your vehicle in case of emergency.

Contact Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is offered in many cars as standard. If you're an AA member or AA or RAC, this should be the first place you call. This will typically cover the cost of calling a locksmith and getting you back into your vehicle. If you're not sure what is included in your breakdown insurance policy or if it's likely to 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 like Start Rescue make it a mandatory part of their policies. They'll cover the call-out of a locksmith and pay any costs associated with transporting your keys from the recovery service to your home or garage (if they're nearer) in the event that you have them locked in the car.

If you're locked out of your car, it's crucial not to take drastic measures to gain access. This could damage your vehicle and invalidate insurance. It's not a great idea. Avoid breaking windows as this can make it harder to enter the vehicle.

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

If you're concerned that your keys might be locked in your car, it's recommended to leave a spare keys with a friend or family member. You can also use a smartphone app that will unlock your car without the use of the physical key. This service is provided by many manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a car with a smart feature, it's also worth looking into its 'companion app', which will allow you to control key features of your car remotely via an app on your phone. There are many garages that can create a duplicate key for you, so if you have a trusted mechanic nearby then this could be an option.

Contact for a locksmith

Locking your keys in your car is a very common occurrence, especially for those who commute to work or school. If you happen 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 have these tools, it's time to contact the experts.

The first thing you must do if you've locked the keys to your car is to take a deep breath and try not to get stressed. If you panic, then it will be harder to think clearly and find a solution. You can also search on the internet for locksmiths in your area who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a professional will arrive quickly and make the experience less stressful.

It is best to contact your breakdown provider first, if you are an active member. They'll usually be able to gain entry to your car without damaging it, but if they are not able to do so, they'll likely recommend an experienced locksmith in working on vehicles. Based on your policy this could be a free service or they may have a set cost for this kind of service.

You can also speak to locksmiths but proceed with caution. You can find an accredited and DBS-checked locksmith by searching on the internet. You can also check online to see if the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.

Many people also go to local garages when they're locked out of their car, but this can be more expensive than calling professionals. They can be cheaper than attempting your own luck to get into the vehicle and accomplish the job faster.

In the end, if you're stuck in a public space and feel that there is a danger to other road users or that there are children, elderly people or pets in the car then you should 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.

Contact the police

It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing out the door for work or to collect your children from school, particularly when you're away from home. This is a risky and difficult situation to find yourself in, especially if you're in the middle of nowhere, miles away from anyone. You may be tempted to try to get your keys back yourself however this is generally not a good idea. You can damage your car and end up paying more money if you try to force locks or break windows.

First, you should assess the situation. Are you in a secure area or are you able to return to your vehicle? Double-check your keys are really locked in the car. It's amazing how many people forget their keys in their cars while they visit the store or the post office. If you're able confirm that your keys are in the car, it's time to seek assistance.

If the police cannot unlock car service your car, they will assist you in finding a solution. They can offer guidance and suggest professionals such as a locksmith near me open now or garage. They will also be able to inform you if your vehicle is equipped with the option of a remote lock and if it's able to be activated using your smartphone. Alternately, you can leave the spare key with someone who can access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open the doors and boot.

It's not a good idea to lock the keys to your car inside the car, but it's a good idea to be prepared in the event that this happens. You can swiftly solve the problem by staying calm and assessing all possibilities. Keep a spare car key in your car and the emergency number of your breakdown service provider handy, and consider installing an invisible key device in your vehicle to prevent further lockouts. You can also set up an alarm system for your vehicle and then have the keys reset to eliminate any previous owner's access. This will also stop thieves from using your car as a means to steal their own sets keys.