How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It could be a stressful time when you lock your keys in the car. There are a variety of ways to retrieve your keys but you must always exercise extreme caution, particularly if there are young children or vulnerable persons trapped inside.

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

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or in the boot is an easy mistake to make. It's more frustrating when you're miles from your home and cannot easily access your vehicle. There are a variety of ways to address this issue. It is essential to remain calm and evaluate the situation. Next, you need to find a safe way to exit the vehicle without causing 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 panic, as this will only make the situation worse.

You can use a spare car key to open the vehicle. This is usually a good option for cars that have manual locks, but you may have to try other methods in the event of a car that is automated. You could also make use of a long-reach tool which is a type of rod with an end loop or hook at the end. This can be used to open the door or lock for boot and unlock it.

You can also find the vehicle identification number by looking at the dash panel on the dashboard. The VIN should be visible, but sometimes it's hidden behind an opaque plastic cover. You can also locate your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on your insurance proof card. If you cannot find it, a locksmith could be needed.

You should always leave the spare car keys with someone who you trust. This will enable you to return to your vehicle in the event that you lose your keys. It will help you avoid the expense of calling a professional. It is also a good idea to keep the spare keys in a secure place like your home.

It is also a good idea to keep a slim jim or other Automotive Lock lockout tools in your vehicle. These tools can be useful in gaining access to your vehicle in the situation of an emergency and are affordable to purchase.

Contact Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is included in a number of cars as a standard. If you are an AA member or AA or RAC, this should be the first call you make. It will usually cover the cost of calling a locksmith and getting you back in your car. If you're uncertain about the coverage of your breakdown policy or if it's likely to cost extra, contact the provider directly to be sure.

It's also worth checking if you have "key assist" included as a part of your policy. It's usually an optional extra but some providers like Start Rescue include it as an integral part of their policies. They'll cover the call-out of a locksmith, and will cover the cost of transporting your keys from the recovery operator to your garage or home (if they're close) in the event that you have keys locked in your car.

It's crucial to avoid taking extreme measures when you're locked outside your car. This could damage the vehicle and may invalidate your insurance, so it's never a good idea. Also, avoid breaking windows, because this could make it even more difficult to enter the vehicle.

If your vehicle isn't in a danger zone or you have children, pets or elderly persons, or vulnerable people locked inside it's not necessary to contact emergency services. It is also advisable to call the police if there is an increased risk of heatstroke or any other health issue.

If you're concerned about locking your keys in your car in the future it's a good idea leave an extra key with an individual from your family or with a friend. You can also unlock your car using an app for smartphones. This service is offered by several manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a smart car is a good idea to look into its companion app that allows you to control the most important features of your car remotely via an app for your smartphone. Alternatively, many garages can create a duplicate key on behalf of you, so if have a reliable mechanic in your area then this could be a viable option.

Contact for a locksmith

It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys in their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you have a spare car key cutting near me open now or an app for your smartphone that opens the doors, this is an easy issue to resolve. If you do not have these options and you are in need of help, then it's time to contact the experts!

The first thing you must do if you have locked your keys in your car is to take a deep breath and try not to get stressed. If you panic, then it will be even harder to think clearly and think of the best solution. You can also search online for locksmiths in your area that specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your place quickly, which makes the situation less stressful.

If you are an employee of a breakdown provider like the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of call. They'll usually be able to gain entry to your car without damaging it, however in the event that they are unable to do so, they'll likely recommend a locksmith with experience in dealing with vehicles. Depending on your policy, this could be free of charge, or they may have a set price for this service.

Another option is to call a locksmith directly, but it's important that you do this with caution. Using an internet search can help you find a reliable and experienced locksmith who has been DBS checked and vetted. It is also recommended to check whether the locksmith you choose has been independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.

When they are locked out of their car, many people turn to their local garage. However, this can be more costly than hiring an expert. They can be cheaper than attempting your own luck to gain access to the vehicle and they can accomplish the job faster.

If you are in a public place and you believe there is a danger to other road users, or there are children, elderly or pets inside your car and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to call the police. However, it is recommended that you call your breakdown provider or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to offer advice and support in these scenarios.

Call the police

It's easy to lose your keys in the car when you're rushing out of the door to work or to collect your kids from school, particularly if it happens while you're away from home. If you're located in a remote area miles from anyone it's an even more difficult and risky situation to find yourself in. You may be tempted attempt to retrieve your keys yourself but this is generally a bad idea. You can damage your car and pay more money if you attempt to force locks or smash windows.

First, you must take a look at the situation. Are you in a safe area or are you able to return to your vehicle? Make sure your keys are locked in the car. It's astonishing how many people lose their keys in their cars while they visit the store or post office. If you're able to confirm that your keys remain in the vehicle, it's time to contact assistance.

If the police are unable to unlock your car, they can assist you in finding an answer. They can provide advice and recommend professionals, such as locksmiths or garages. They can also inform you if the vehicle has a remote locking feature and if it is activated by your phone. You can leave a spare car key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then use an app on their phone to open the doors or boot.

While it's not ideal to lock your keys in your car, it's better to be prepared for the possibility. By being calm and evaluating your options, Automotive lock you will be able to quickly fix the issue. Keep an extra car key in your car and the emergency number of your breakdown service provider on hand and think about installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram the keys to disable access to previous owners. This will also prevent thieves from using your car as a means to steal their own sets keys.