How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It could be a stressful time when you lock your keys inside the car. There are several methods to retrieve your keys, however you should always exercise extreme caution when there are children or other people who are vulnerable inside.

The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys by yourself prior to calling the police. These DIY methods may harm the interior of your vehicle and should be only used as the last option.

Do It Yourself

It's simple to lock your keys in the boot or car. It's even more annoying especially if you're far from home and can't get into the vehicle. There are fortunately several options to deal with this issue. It is essential to remain calm and assess the situation. The next step is to try to figure out a way to get out of the car without causing damage to it. There are many ways to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to apps and other methods. The most important thing to remember is not to panic, as this can only increase the severity of the problem.

You can make use of a spare car key to unlock the vehicle. This is usually a great option for cars with locks that are manual, however you may have to try other methods in the event of a vehicle that is automatic. You could also make use of a long-reach tool which is a kind of rod that has a hook or loop on the end. This tool can be used to unlock the boot or door lock.

Another option is to find the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dashboard. The number should be visible, however it can sometimes be hidden behind a cover. You could also try to locate your VIN on your insurance documents or proof of insurance. If you're unable to find it, you might need to call a locksmith.

Always leave a spare car key with someone you trust. This will allow you to return to your vehicle if you forget your keys. It will reduce the cost of calling a professional. You may also want to keep the spare keys in a safe place like your home.

It's recommended to keep a slim jim, or other tools for locking out your car in your vehicle. These tools are useful to gain access to your car in the situation of an emergency and they are inexpensive to purchase.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is offered in a lot of cars as standard. If you are an active member of AA or RAC, this should be the first place you call. This usually covers the cost of calling a locksmith to get you back into your car. If you're not sure the coverage of your breakdown policy or if it's likely to incur an extra charge you should contact the provider directly to confirm.

It's also worth checking if you have "key assist" in your policy. This is often an add-on that is not required, but some providers like 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 company to your home or garage (if they're closer) if you have them locked in the car.

It is important not to take drastic measures when you're locked outside your vehicle. This could cause damage to your vehicle and invalidate your insurance. It's not a great idea. Also, be careful not to break windows, because this could make it even difficult to get inside.

If your vehicle isn't in a danger zone or you have pets, children or elderly persons, or vulnerable people who are locked in your car, there's no need to call emergency services. It is also advisable to call the police if you are at an increased risk of heatstroke or any other health issue.

If you're worried about locking your keys in your car in future it's a good idea to leave a spare key with a family member or friend. You can also unlock your car with a smartphone application. Numerous brands such as 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 car remotely via an app for your smartphone. Alternatively, many garages can create a duplicate key on behalf of you, so if have a trusted mechanic close by it could be a possibility.

Contact a locksmith

Locking your keys in your car is a common occurrence, especially for commuters to work or school. If you have an extra car key or an application for your smartphone that opens the doors, it's an easy problem to solve. If you don't have the tools, it's time to talk to the experts.

Take a deep breath and don't worry if you lock your keys in your vehicle. If you panic, then it will be even harder to think clearly and come up with an answer. You can also search on the internet for locksmiths in your area that specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a skilled locksmith comes out to your location quickly, which makes the situation less stressful.

If you are an active member of a breakdown provider such as the RAC or AA then this should be your first port of call. If they are not able to open your vehicle without damaging it, they will recommend an experienced locksmith with experience with vehicles. The service could be offered free of charge or for the cost of a fixed amount, based on the insurance policy you have.

Another option is to call an individual locksmith, but it's important that you take your time when you contact a locksmith. Using an internet search will help you locate an experienced and reliable locksmith who is DBS verified and vetted. It is also advisable to confirm whether the locksmith you choose has been independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.

When they are locked keys car out of the vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this could be more costly than hiring an expert. However, they can still be less expensive than attempting to break into the car yourself, and will often complete the job much faster.

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

Call the police

It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing out of the door to work or to collect your children from school, especially if it happens while you're away from home. This is a risky and difficult situation to be in if you are in the middle of nowhere and miles from anyone. You may be tempted to attempt to get your keys back yourself, but this is usually not a good idea. You could damage your vehicle and pay more if you try to force locks or break windows.

The first thing to do is assess the situation - are you in a secure location and where can you go to return to your vehicle? Next, double-check that your keys really are locked inside. It's surprising how often people forget to lock them in their cars when they visit an establishment or post office. If you're able to confirm your keys are in the car, it's time to contact us for assistance.

The police won't be in a position to unlock your vehicle, but they are able to assist you in finding a solution. They can offer advice and recommend professionals, like a garage or locksmith. They'll also be able to tell you if your vehicle is equipped with an option for remote locking and if it can be activated from your phone. You can leave a spare car key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then utilize an app on their smartphone to open the doors or boot.

It's not the best idea to lock your car keys inside however it is best to be prepared in case this occurs. You can easily solve the problem by staying at peace and evaluating all possible options. Keep an extra car key in your vehicle as well as the emergency number of your breakdown service provider on hand and think about installing a key lock hidden on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram the keys to block access from previous owners. This will also prevent thieves from using your vehicle as a vehicle to steal their own sets keys.