How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It can be stressful when you lock your keys inside the car. There are many ways to retrieve your keys however, you must use extreme caution, particularly in the case of children or vulnerable persons locked inside.

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

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is an easy mistake to make. It's more frustrating when you're miles from home and are unable to gain access to your vehicle. There are several options to deal with this issue. It is crucial to remain calm and analyze the situation. Next, you need to find a safe method to get out of the vehicle without causing any damage to it. There are a myriad of methods to accomplish this, ranging from using coat hangers to apps and other methods. It is essential not to panic, as this can cause more problems.

If you have a spare key, you can use this to gain entry into your car. This is usually a good option for cars that have locks that are manual, however you might need to consider different methods in the case of a car that is automated. You can also try to make use of a long-reach tool which is a kind of rod with loop or hook on the end. This can be used to reach the door or boot lock and open it.

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

It is always a good idea to leave a spare key with someone you are confident in. It is then possible to get into your vehicle if you've forgotten your keys. This will spare you from calling a professional. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a safe location, such as your house.

Keep an extra slim Jim or another lockout tool for your car. These tools can be helpful for getting into your unlocking car door service in the situation of an emergency and they are not expensive to purchase.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Many cars come with roadside assistance in the standard package, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of contact. This usually covers the cost to call a locksmith to get you back into your vehicle. If you're not sure what's covered under your breakdown insurance policy or if it's going to be a cost you should contact the provider directly to be sure.

You should also check if your policy includes "key assistance". This is often an optional extra but some providers like Start Rescue include it as a core feature of their policies. They'll cover the call out of a locksmith and cover any costs associated with transporting your keys from the recovery company to your garage or home (if they're nearer) when you've got 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 cause damage to the vehicle and could make your insurance invalid and is therefore not an ideal idea. Avoid breaking windows as it can make it harder to get inside the vehicle.

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

If you're worried about locking your left my keys in the car in your car in future it's a good idea leave an extra key with someone in your family or a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that allows you to unlock your car without the physical key. Many manufacturers, including BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall, offer this service. If you own a car with a smart feature is a good idea to look into its companion app, which will allow you to control the key features of your vehicle remotely using an app that you can download to your phone. Alternatively, many garages can create a duplicate key for you, so if have a trusted mechanic close by then this could be a possibility.

Call a locksmith

It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys in their car, especially those who commute. If you have a spare car key or an app for your phone that allows you to unlock the doors, this is a simple situation to solve. However, if you don't have these options available and you are in need of help, then it's time to call in experts!

The first thing you need to do if you've locked your keys in your car is to take a deep breath and try not to get stressed. If you panic, it'll be harder to think straight or find a viable solution. It is also a good idea to start looking online for locksmiths close to you who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional arrives quickly and make the experience less stressful.

If you are an active member of a breakdown company such as the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of contact. If they are not able to open your vehicle without damaging it they will suggest an experienced locksmith who has expertise with vehicles. This service can be offered free of charge or at the cost of a fixed amount, based on the insurance policy you have.

Another option is to speak with the locksmith directly, however it is important to do this with caution. Searching on the internet can help you find a reputable and experienced locksmith who is DBS verified and vetted. It is also recommended that the locksmith you select has been independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be done online.

Many people also resort to garages in their area when they're locked out of their car however, this could be more expensive than calling an expert. They can be cheaper than attempting your own luck to gain access to the vehicle and complete the task much quicker.

In the end, if you're stuck in a public place and feel that there is a risk to other road users or there are elderly, children or pets inside the car it is recommended to contact the police. It is recommended to call your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can offer assistance and advice.

Contact the police

It's easy to forget your keys in the car while you're hurrying out of the door to work or to pick up your kids from school, particularly if it happens while you're away from home. If you're located in a remote area away from anyone, this is an even more difficult and dangerous situation to find yourself in. It's tempting to retrieve your keys on your own however it's not a smart idea. Trying to force locks or break windows could 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 secure location and where do you go to get back in your car? Check that your keys are locked inside the car. It's amazing how to open the car door without key many people lose their keys in their cars when they visit the store or post office. If you're able to verify that your keys are in the vehicle then it's time to contact assistance.

If the police are unable to unlock your car, they can help you find a solution. They can give you guidance and suggest professionals, such as locksmiths or garages. They will also be able to tell you if your car has a remote lock feature and if it can be activated via your phone. Alternatively, you can leave the spare key with someone who can access your vehicle lock out and use the app on their smartphone to unlock the doors and boot.

It's not the best idea to lock your keys to your car the car, but it's a good idea to be prepared in the event that this occurs. You can quickly resolve the issue by remaining in a calm state and evaluating all of possibilities. To avoid future lockouts, always carry an extra key, keep the emergency number for your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and think about purchasing a hidden key device that attaches to your car. Install an alarm system in your car and reprogram keys to remove access to previous owners. This will also stop thieves from using your vehicle as a way to steal their own sets of keys.