How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

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

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

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is an easy mistake to make. It can be even more difficult when you're far from your home and cannot gain access to your vehicle. There are fortunately a few options for dealing with this problem. It is essential to remain calm and assess the situation. Next, you need to find a safe method to exit the vehicle without causing damage to it. There are many different strategies to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to testing different methods and apps. The most important thing is to not be in a panic, as this will only increase the severity of the problem.

You can make use of a spare car key to unlock the car. If your car has manual locks this is a good solution. However, if it's an automated vehicle, you might have to try another method. You can also employ the long reach tool which is a rod that has an end loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to reach 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 visible, but it is sometimes hidden behind the cover. You can also find your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you are unable to locate it, you might need to call an locksmith.

It's always an excellent idea to leave a spare key with someone you can trust. This will let you get back into your car if you forget your keys. It will save you the expense of calling an expert. You should also think about putting the spare key unlock service in a safe location, like your house.

It is an excellent idea to keep a slim jim, or other automotive lockout tools in your vehicle. These tools are useful to gain access to your car in the case of an emergency and they are not expensive to purchase.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Many cars have roadside assistance, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of call. It will typically cover the cost to call locksmiths to help you get back in your car. Contact your service directly if you are not sure what is covered by your breakdown policy or whether there is an additional charge.

You should also determine if your policy includes 'key assistance'. It's usually an optional extra however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as an integral part of their policies. They'll pay for the call-out of a locksmith and cover any costs associated with transporting your keys from the recovery operator to your garage or home (if they're close) in the event that you have them locked in your car.

When you're locked out of your vehicle, it's vital not to take drastic steps to gain access. This can damage your vehicle and invalidate your insurance. It's not a good idea. It is also recommended to avoid breaking windows because this could make it more difficult to get inside.

If your car is not in a danger zone or you have children, pets, elderly people, or vulnerable people who are locked in your car, there's no need to call emergency services. If there's a risk of heatstroke or other health issues, you should also call the police.

If you're concerned about locking your keys in your car in the future it's a good idea leave the spare key with an individual from your family or with a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that will unlock your car without the physical key. Numerous manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall, offer this service. If you own a smart car is a good idea to look into its companion app, which will allow you to control the key features of your car remotely through an app on your phone. There are many garages that can create a duplicate key on behalf of you, so if you have a trusted mechanic close by it could be a viable option.

Contact a locksmith

It is not unusual for people to lock their keys in their cars, particularly those who commute. If you are lucky enough to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that can unlock the doors and open the car, then this is a simple problem to resolve. However, if you don't have these options available now is the time to call experts!

The first thing you should do if you've locked your keys inside your car is to breathe deeply and try not to panic. If you panic, it will be more difficult to think clearly or think of a suitable solution. It is also recommended to begin looking online for locksmiths close to you that specialise in access to vehicles. This will ensure a specialist arrives at your location quickly and make the situation less stressful.

If you are an active member of a breakdown service such as the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first port of call. They will often be in a position to gain access to your vehicle without causing damage to it, but should they not be able to then they will likely recommend a locksmith with experience in dealing with vehicles. Based on your policy, this could be free of charge, or they could charge the option of paying a fixed fee for this type of service.

You can also contact a locksmith however, you must be cautious. Searching on the internet will help you locate a reputable and experienced locksmith who has been DBS verified and checked. It is also recommended to check that the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which is possible online.

If they're locked out of their car, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this can be more costly than hiring an expert. However, they can be cheaper than trying to break into your car yourself and can usually complete the task faster.

If you are in a public area and feel there is a risk to other motorists, or there are pets, elderly people or children in your vehicle and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to call the police. It is recommended to contact your breakdown provider, or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can give assistance and advice.

Contact the police

If you're on the move it's easy to forget your keys in your car. This is especially true if not at home. This is a dangerous and difficult situation to be in if you're located in the middle nowhere far from any one. It's tempting to get your keys back on your own, but it is not a good idea. You can damage your car and end up paying more if you try to force locks or break windows.

First, you must assess the situation. Are you in a secure location and where can you go to return to your car? Double-check your keys are really secured in the car. It's astonishing how many people leave their keys in their cars when they go to the store or the post office. If you're able confirm that your keys are in the vehicle, it's time to call for assistance.

The police will not be able to unlock your vehicle, but they are able to assist you in finding the solution. They can give you advice and recommend professionals, like a garage or locksmith. They'll also be able tell you if your vehicle has an option for remote locking and if it's able to be activated via your phone. Alternatively, boot you can leave the spare key with someone who has the ability to access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open the doors and boot boot.

It's not the best idea to lock your car keys inside, but it's best to be prepared in the event that this occurs. By being calm and evaluating your options, you'll be able to quickly solve the issue. To prevent future lockouts Always carry a spare key, keep the emergency number of your breakdown service on hand and consider purchasing an invisible key device that attaches to your car. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram the keys to remove access to previous owners. This will also prevent thieves from using your car as a way to steal their own sets of keys.