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 methods to retrieve your keys, but you must always exercise extreme caution if you have children or other vulnerable individuals inside.

The RAC suggests trying to retrieve your keys on your own before calling the police. DIY methods can cause damage to the interior of your vehicle and should only be only used as a last resort.

Do It Yourself

It's easy to lock your keys in the car's boot or in the trunk. It's even more annoying when you're miles from your home and cannot gain access to your vehicle. There are fortunately, a few options for dealing with this issue. The most important thing to do is stay calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to figure out how to get out of the car without damaging it. There are many different strategies for doing this, from using coat hangers to testing out different apps and methods. The most important thing is not to be in a panic, as this will only cause the situation to get worse.

If you have a spare key that you have, you can use it to gain entry into your car. This is usually a great option for cars that have manual locks, but you might need to consider other methods in the event of an automatic car. You can also employ a long-reach device, which is a kind of rod with an end loop or hook at the end. This can be used to open the door or boot lock and open it.

You can also try to locate the vehicle identification number by looking at the dash panel on the dash. This number should be displayed however sometimes it's hidden behind a plastic cover. You could also try to locate your VIN on your insurance form or proof of insurance. If you're unable to find it, you might have to call an locksmith.

It is always recommended to leave a spare key with someone you are confident in. You can then access your vehicle if you have forgotten your keys. This will save you from calling a professional. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a secure place, such as your home.

It is also a good 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 event of an emergency, and are affordable to purchase.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is offered in a lot of cars as standard. If you're an active member of AA or RAC it should be the first call you make. This will usually cover the cost to call an emergency locksmith to get back in your car. Contact your provider directly if you aren't sure of what is covered under your breakdown policy, or whether there is an additional cost.

You should also check if your policy includes 'key assistance'. It's typically an optional feature however some companies like Start Rescue make it a standard element of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll pay for a locksmith be on hand to take your keys to your house or garage.

It's important to not take extreme measures when you're locked out of your car. This can damage the vehicle and void your insurance. It's not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows since this will make it more difficult to enter the vehicle.

There's no reason to call emergency services unless your car is in an unsafe situation or you have pets or children locked inside. You should also contact the police if you think there's the possibility of suffering from heatstroke or other health issues.

If you're worried about locking your keys inside your car in future, it's a good idea leave a spare key with someone in your family or a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that will unlock your car without the physical key. Numerous brands such as BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall offer this service. If you own a car with a smart feature you should also look into its 'companion app' that allows you to control the most important features of your car remotely via an app on your phone. Many garages can make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby, this is an option.

Call for a locksmith

It is not unusual for people to lock their keys inside their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you have a spare car key or an app for your phone that allows you to unlock 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 call in experts!

The first thing you need to do if you have locked your keys inside your car is to take a deep breath and try not to panic. If you panic it will be difficult to think straight or think of a suitable solution. It's also recommended to begin looking online for locksmiths close to you who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure a specialist will arrive quickly and make the situation less stressful.

If you are an active member of a breakdown provider such as the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first point of contact. If they are unable to unlock your vehicle without damaging it they will recommend an experienced locksmith who has experience with vehicles. This service can be offered for free or at a fixed fee, depending on the insurance policy you have.

You can also get in touch with locksmiths but take your time. Searching on the internet can help you find a reliable and experienced locksmith who is DBS verified and checked. It is also recommended that the locksmith you select has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which is possible online.

Many people also go to their local garages when they are locked out of their vehicle but this is more expensive than calling in an expert. They may be less expensive than trying your luck to unlock the vehicle and they can complete the task much quicker.

Finally, if you are stuck in a public place and you feel there is a danger to other road users or that there are children, elderly people or pets in the vehicle then you should contact the police. But, it is recommended that you call your breakdown service provider or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to provide assistance and advice in these scenarios.

Contact the police

It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing out the door for work or to collect your kids from school, particularly when you're away from home. This is a risky and stressful situation to be in, especially if you're in the middle nowhere far from any one. It's tempting to find your keys by yourself but it's not a smart idea. Trying to force locks or break windows could cause damage to your vehicle, and cost you more in the long run.

First, you must assess the situation. Are you in a safe area and where can you go for a return trip to your vehicle? Double-check your keys are really secured in the car. It's astonishing how to get your keys out of a locked car many people lose their keys in their cars when they visit the store or the post office. If you're able to verify that your keys are still in the vehicle and you're not sure, call for help.

The police will not be able to unlock your vehicle, but they are able to assist you in finding an answer. They can provide advice and recommend professionals, like a garage or locksmith. They can also tell you if the vehicle comes with the option of locking via remote and if it is activated by your phone. You can also leave a spare vehicle key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then utilize an app on their smartphone to open the doors or open the boot.

It's not ideal to lock the keys to your car inside the car, but it's a good idea to be prepared in the event that this occurs. You can swiftly solve the problem by staying at peace and evaluating all possibilities. Keep a spare car key in your vehicle as well as the emergency number of your breakdown service provider handy and think about installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. Install an alarm system in your vehicle and reprogram the keys to disable access to previous owners. This will stop thieves from using the car to steal their own keys.