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 however, you must use extreme caution, especially in the case of children or vulnerable persons locked inside.

The RAC suggests you try to recover your keys before calling the police. These DIY methods may damage the interior of your car and should only be used as the last resort.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is an easy mistake to make. It's more frustrating when you're far from your home and cannot get into your car. There are fortunately a few options for dealing with this issue. It is essential to remain calm and assess the situation. The next step is to find a way to get out of the car without causing damage to it. There are many different strategies to accomplish this, from using coat hangers to trying out different apps and methods. It is crucial not to be overly anxious as this could increase the risk of problems.

You can make use of a spare car keys to unlock car keys inside the car. This is usually a good option for cars with manual locks, but you might need to consider other methods in the event of a vehicle that is automatic. You can also try to use a long-reach tool, which is a kind of rod with loop or hook on the end. It can be used to open a car door the door or boot lock and then unlock it.

You can also try to identify the vehicle's identification number by looking at the dash panel on the dash. The number should be visible, but it can sometimes be hidden behind a cover. You can also locate your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you can't find it, you may need to call a locksmith.

It is advisable to leave an extra car key with someone who you trust. This will enable you to get back into your car when you misplace your keys, and it will reduce the cost of calling a professional. You should also think about putting the spare key in a secure location, like your home.

Keep a slim Jim or other automotive lockout tool in your car. These tools are not expensive and can be used to gain access into your vehicle in the event of an emergency.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

A lot of cars come with roadside assistance as standard, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of call. This will usually cover the cost of calling locksmiths to help you get back into your car. If you're not sure what's covered under your breakdown policy or if it's likely to incur an extra charge make contact with the company directly to be sure.

You should also determine whether your policy contains 'key assistance'. It's typically an optional feature however some companies such as Start Rescue make it a standard element of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they will hire a locksmith to be on hand to take your keys to your home or garage.

It is important not to take extreme measures when you're locked out of your car. This could damage your vehicle and invalidate insurance. It's not a great idea. You should also be careful not to break windows, as this can make it even more difficult to get inside.

There's no reason to call emergency services unless your vehicle is in a hazardous location or you have children or pets in the car. If there's a risk of heatstroke or any other health issue you should also contact the police.

If you're concerned about locking your keys inside 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 provided by a variety of manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a car with a smart feature is a good idea to look into its companion app that allows you to control key features of your car remotely through an app for your smartphone. Additionally, many garages will create a duplicate key for you, so if you have a reliable mechanic in your area it could be an option.

Contact a locksmith

It is not unusual for people to lock their keys in their car, especially those who commute. If you're fortunate enough to have a spare key or an app for your smart phone that will unlock your doors, then this is a simple problem to resolve. If you don't have these tools, it is time to call experts.

The first thing you should do if you have locked your keys in your car is to take a deep breath and try not to panic. If you panic, it'll be more difficult to think clearly or find a viable solution. It's also a good idea to start looking for locksmiths online near you who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a specialist arrives at your place quickly, which makes the situation less stressful.

You should call your breakdown provider first if you are a member. They will often be in a position to gain access to your vehicle without causing damage to it, however in the event that they are unable to do this, they'll recommend an experienced locksmith in working on vehicles. Depending on your policy, this might be a free service or they might charge the option of paying a fixed price for this service.

You can also get in touch with locksmiths, but you should take your time. You can find a DBS-checked and vetted locksmith by searching on the internet. It is also advisable to confirm that the locksmith you select has been independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be done online.

When they are locked out of their car, many people turn to their local garage. However, this could be more expensive than hiring an expert. However, they can still be cheaper than trying to break into the car keys locked in car yourself and can usually complete the task much quicker.

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

Call the Police

It's easy to forget your left keys inside car in the car while you're hurrying out the door for work or to pick up your children from school, particularly when you're away from home. If you're in the middle of nowhere miles from anyone and everything, it's an even more difficult and risky situation to find yourself in. It's tempting to get your keys back on your own, but it is not a smart idea. Trying to force locks or break windows could cause damage to your vehicle, and cost you more money in the long run.

The first thing you should do is assess the situation - are you in a secure area and where do you go to return to your vehicle? Then, make sure that your keys really are locked inside. It's amazing how often people leave keys in their vehicles when they go to an outlet or post office. If you're able verify that your keys are in the car, it's time to contact assistance.

While the police can't unlock your car, they will help you find an answer. They can provide guidance and suggest professionals, like a garage or locksmith. They'll also be able to inform you if your car has an option for remote locking and if it can be activated from your phone. Alternately, you can leave a spare key with someone who can access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to unlock the doors and boot.

It's not a good idea to lock the keys to your car inside however it is best to be prepared should this occurs. You can swiftly resolve the issue by remaining calm and assessing all your options. 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 prevent further lockouts. Install an alarm system in your vehicle and reprogram the keys to remove access to previous owners. This will also prevent thieves from using your vehicle as a vehicle to steal their own sets keys.