How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It could be a stressful time if you lock your keys in the car. There are many ways to get back your keys, however you must take extreme caution if you have children or other vulnerable individuals inside.

The RAC suggests that you try to find your keys by yourself prior to calling the police. DIY methods can harm the interior of your vehicle and should only be used as an option last option.

Do It Yourself

It's easy to lock your keys in the car or boot. It's even more inconvenient if it happens when you're far away from home and unable to easily access the vehicle. There are many solutions to this issue. The most important thing is to remain calm and evaluate the situation. Next, you need to find a safe way to exit the vehicle without causing any damage to it. There are a myriad of ways for doing this, 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.

If you have a spare key that you have, you can use it to get into the car. This is usually a great alternative for cars that have manual locks, but you may need to try other tactics in the case of an automatic car. You can also make use of a long reach tool, which is a rod that has an end 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 taking a look at the dashboard panel on the dashboard. The VIN should be visible, however it is sometimes hidden behind a cover. You can also find your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on your proof of insurance card. If you are unable to locate it, a locksmith might be required.

It's always recommended to leave a spare key with someone you trust. It is then possible to get into your vehicle if you've lost your keys. This will spare you from having to call an expert. You might also consider leaving the spare in a safe location like your home.

It's recommended to keep a slim jim, or other automotive lockout tools, in your vehicle. These tools can be helpful to gain access to your car in the event of an emergency, and they are inexpensive to purchase.

Contact Your Breakdown Provider

A lot of cars come with roadside assistance and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this is your first port of contact. It will typically cover the cost of calling an emergency locksmith to get back in your car. Contact your provider directly if aren't sure of the coverage of your breakdown policy or should you be concerned about an additional charge.

You should also check if your policy includes 'key assistance'. It's usually an optional option however some companies such as Start Rescue make it a regular part of their policies. They'll pay for the call out of a locksmith and cover the cost of 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.

When you're locked out of your car, it's crucial not to take extreme measures to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and make your insurance invalid therefore it's not an ideal idea. Avoid breaking windows as it will make it more difficult to get inside the vehicle.

Unless your car is in a danger zone, or you have children, pets, elderly people, open the car or vulnerable people locked in the car there's no need to contact emergency services. It is also advisable to call the police if there is the possibility of suffering from heatstroke or other health issues.

If you're concerned about locking your keys in your car in future, it's a good idea to leave the spare key with an individual from your family or with a friend. You can also unlock your car with an app for smartphones. Numerous manufacturers, including 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 that allows you to control the key features of your vehicle remotely using an app for your smartphone. Many garages can make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician near, this is an option.

Contact a locksmith

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

Take a deep breath and don't worry if you lock your keys inside your vehicle. If you panic, then it will be even harder to think clearly and come up with the best solution. It's also a good idea to start looking online for locksmiths close to you who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your location quickly and make the process less stressful.

If you are a member of a breakdown provider like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first point of contact. They are usually able to gain entry to your car without damaging it, but if they are not able to do this, they'll recommend a locksmith with experience in working on vehicles. The service could be offered for free or at a fixed fee, depending on your insurance policy.

Another option is to speak with a locksmith directly, but it's important that you take your time when you contact a locksmith. Searching on the internet will help you locate a reliable and experienced locksmith who is DBS verified and checked. You can also find out online to see if the locksmith you select is accredited independently by the Master Locksmiths Association.

If they are locked out of the car, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this can be more costly than hiring a professional. They may be less expensive than attempting your own luck to gain access to the vehicle and do the job much faster.

If you are in a public space and believe that there is a danger to other road users, or there could be children, elderly or pets in your vehicle you should contact the police. But, it is recommended that you call your breakdown company or an expert Auto Locksmith first before doing this as they will be able to give assistance and guidance in these scenarios.

Call the police

When you're out and about it's easy to lose your keys in your car. This is especially true if you're not at home. This is a very risky and difficult situation to find yourself in if you're located in the middle nowhere, miles away from anyone. You might be tempted to try to find your keys on your own, but this is usually not a good idea. Intentionally forcing locks or break windows could damage your vehicle and cost you more in the end.

The first step is to examine the situation. Are you in a secure location? Where can you go to return to your car? Make sure you double-check that your keys are locked inside. It's amazing how often people leave them in their cars when they visit 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 assistance.

The police will not be able to unlock your vehicle, but they can assist you in finding an answer. They can provide suggestions and recommend professionals, like a garage or locksmith. They will also be able tell you if your vehicle has a remote lock feature and if it is able to be activated using your smartphone. You can also leave a spare key with someone who can access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to open the doors and boot.

While it's never ideal to lock your keys inside your car, it's better to be prepared for this scenario. By being calm and evaluating your options, you'll be able to quickly resolve the problem. Keep a spare car key in your vehicle and the emergency number of your breakdown service provider in case of need and think about installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. Install an alarm system in your car and reprogram keys to block access to previous owners. This will also stop thieves from using your vehicle as a means to take their own sets of keys.