How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It can be stressful when you lock your keys in the car. There are many ways to retrieve your keys but you should always use extreme caution, especially if there are young children or vulnerable persons locked inside.

The RAC recommends that you try to recover your keys before calling the police. These DIY methods could damage the interior of your vehicle and should only be used as a final resort.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common 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 analyze the situation. The next step is to try to figure out a way to get to get out of the vehicle without causing damage to it. There are a variety of strategies to accomplish this, from using coat hangers to testing different methods and apps. The most important thing to remember is not to panic, as this will only make the situation worse.

If you have an extra key, you can use this to enter the car. If your car is equipped with manual locks, this is a good solution. If it's an automatic vehicle, you may need try a different approach. You can also use an extended reach tool, that is a rod with hook or loop at the end. This can be used to open the door or boot lock and boot open it.

You can also try to locate the vehicle identification number by looking at the panel in the dash. This number is usually visible, but it is sometimes hidden behind a cover. You can also find your VIN in your insurance documentation or on your proof of insurance card. If you can't find it, you might have to call an locksmith.

It is advisable to leave an extra car key with someone you can trust. You can then access your vehicle if you've forgotten your keys. This will save you from having to call a professional. You might also keep the spare keys in a secure place like your home.

Keep a slim Jim or any other locksmith tools for your car. These tools can be useful in gaining access to your vehicle in the event of an emergency, and they are not expensive to purchase.

Contact Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is provided in many cars as standard. If you are a member of AA or RAC, this should be the first place you call. It will usually cover the cost of calling a locksmith, and getting you back into your car. Contact your service directly if you aren't sure of the coverage of your breakdown policy, or should you be concerned about an additional charge.

It's also worth checking whether you have 'key assist' as part of your policy. This is often an add-on that is not required however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as a core feature of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they will pay for a locksmith come out and transport your keys to your home or garage.

It's important to not take extreme measures while locked outside your vehicle. This could damage your vehicle and invalidate your insurance. It's not a great idea. Avoid breaking windows since this can make it harder to get into the vehicle.

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

If you're worried about locking your keys inside your car in the future, it's a good idea to leave an extra key with a family member or friend. You can also unlock your car using an app for smartphones. Numerous manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall provide 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 for your smartphone. Many garages can make duplicate keys for you. If you have a reliable technician in your area, this is an option.

Call an expert locksmith

Locking your keys in your car is a common occurrence, especially for those who commute to work or school. If you're fortunate 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 straightforward problem to resolve. If you do not have these options and you are in need of help, then it's time to contact the experts!

Take a deep breath and don't panic if you lock your keys in your car. If you panic, it'll be harder to think straight or find a viable solution. You can also look online for locksmiths in your area that specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a skilled locksmith arrives at your location quickly, making the process 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 unable to unlock your vehicle without damaging it they will recommend a professional locksmith who has experience with vehicles. Based on your policy, this might be a free service or they may have a set price for this service.

Another option is to call an individual locksmith, but it's important that you be cautious when doing this. You can locate an accredited and DBS-checked locksmith by searching on the internet. It is also advisable to confirm that your chosen locksmith has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.

If they are locked out of the car, many people turn to their local garage. However, this could be more expensive than calling a professional. They are less expensive than trying your own luck to unlock the vehicle and accomplish the job faster.

If you are in a public area and feel there is a danger to other road users, or that there may be pets, elderly, or children inside your car and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to call the police. It is best to call your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can offer you advice and support.

Call the Police

If you're on the move, it's easy to leave your keys in your car. This is especially true if not at home. This is a very risky and difficult situation to find yourself in if you are in the middle nowhere and miles from anyone. It's tempting to try and get your keys back by yourself, but it is not a good idea. Trying to force locks or break windows could damage your vehicle and cost you more money in the end.

First, boot you must take a look at the situation. Are you in a secure location? Where can you go to return to your car? Then, make sure that your keys are locked inside the vehicle - it's shocking how often people leave them in their cars when they visit a store or the post office. If you are able to confirm that your keys are in the car, it's now time to call for assistance.

If the police are unable to unlock your car, they will assist you in finding a solution. They can offer advice and recommend professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. They'll also be able to tell you if your vehicle has the option of a remote lock and if it can be activated from your phone. Alternatively, you can leave a 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 locked in car no spare to your car inside the car, but it's a good idea to be prepared should this happens. By staying calm and assessing your options, you can quickly fix the issue. Keep a spare car key in your vehicle and the emergency number of your breakdown service provider handy and think about installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. You can also set up an alarm system on your vehicle and have the keys reprogrammed to remove any previous owner's access. This will prevent thieves from using the vehicle to steal your keys.