How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

If you have locked your keys inside your car uk it is a stressful situation. There are several methods to retrieve your keys, but you should always exercise extreme caution if you have children or other people who are vulnerable inside.

The RAC suggests that you attempt to locate your keys prior to calling the police. These DIY methods may harm the interior of your car and should be only used as an option last resort.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake to make. It's even more difficult if it happens when you're miles away from home and are unable to gain access to your vehicle. There are many ways to address this issue. It is important to remain calm and assess the situation. The next step is to figure out how to get your keys out of a locked car to get out of the car without causing any damage to it. There are many ways to do this, from using coathangers to apps and other methods. It is essential not to panic as this will only make things worse.

You can make use of a spare car keys to unlock the car. This is usually a great option for cars with manual locks, but you might need to consider other tactics in the case of a vehicle that is automatic. You can also use the long reach tool which is a rod that has an end loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to reach the door or boot lock and open it.

Another option is to find the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dash. The number should be displayed however, sometimes it's hidden behind an opaque plastic cover. You can also locate your VIN in your insurance documentation or on your insurance proof card. If you can't find it, a locksmith may be required.

Always leave an extra car key with someone who you can trust. You can then access your vehicle in case you've forgotten your keys. This will prevent you from calling an expert. You might also consider leaving the spare in a safe location like your home.

Keep a slim Jim or any other automotive lockout tool in your vehicle. These tools are not expensive and can be used to get into your vehicle in case of emergency.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is included in many cars as standard. If you are an active member of AA or RAC it should be the first call you make. This will usually cover the cost to call a locksmith to get you back in your car. If you're unsure about what is included in your breakdown insurance policy or if it's going to cost extra, contact the provider directly to confirm.

You should also check if your policy includes "key assistance". It's typically an optional add-on but some providers like Start Rescue include it as a core feature of their policies. They'll pay for the call-out of a locksmith, and will cover the cost of transporting your keys from the recovery company to your home or garage (if they're close) when you've got them locked in your car.

When you're locked out of your car, it's crucial not to take extreme steps to gain access. This could cause damage to your vehicle and invalidate your insurance. It's not a great idea. Avoid breaking windows since this can make it harder to get inside the vehicle.

Unless your car is in a danger zone or you have children, pets elderly people, vulnerable people who are locked in your car there's no need to call emergency services. If there's a chance of heatstroke or other health problems it is recommended to call the police.

If you're worried about locking your keys inside your car in the future, it's a good idea leave a spare key with someone in your family or a friend. You can also unlock your car with an app for smartphones. This service is provided by many manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. You should also consider the "companion application" if you own a smart car. This allows you to manage the features of your car via an application. Many garages will create duplicate keys for you. If you have a reliable technician in your area, 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're fortunate enough to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that will unlock your doors, then this is an easy situation to resolve. If you do not have these options, then it is time to call experts!

Take a deep breath, and don't be afraid to lock your keys in your car. If you panic it will be more difficult to think clearly or come up with a good solution. You can also look online for locksmiths in your area who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a skilled locksmith arrives at your location quickly, making the situation less stressful.

If you are an employee of a breakdown company such as the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of call. If they are unable unlock your vehicle without damaging it they will suggest an experienced locksmith with previous experience working with vehicles. Based on your policy, this could be free of charge, or they could charge an agreed-upon price for this service.

You can also contact locksmiths however, you must proceed with caution. Searching on the internet can help you find a reputable and experienced locksmith who has been DBS verified and vetted. You can also check online if the locksmith you choose is accredited independently by the Master Locksmiths Association.

When they are locked out of the vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this could be more expensive than calling an expert. They can be cheaper than attempting your own luck to gain access to the vehicle and they can do the job much faster.

If you are in a public space and feel there is a risk to other road users, or there could be pets, elderly people or children in your car, it is best to call the police. However, it is always recommended to contact your breakdown provider or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this as they will be able to provide advice and support in these instances.

Call the Police

It's easy to lose your keys in the car when you're hurrying out the door for work or to collect your kids from school, especially if it happens while you're away from home. If you're in a remote area away from anyone it's an even more challenging and dangerous situation to find yourself in. You may be tempted try to get your keys back yourself however this is generally not a good idea. Trying to force locks or break windows can cause damage to your vehicle and cost you more money in the long run.

The first step is to assess the situation. Are you in a safe area? Where can you go to return to your vehicle? Then, make sure that your keys are locked inside the vehicle - it's surprising how often people leave them in their cars when they visit an establishment or post office. If you're able confirm that your keys remain in the vehicle then it's time to call for assistance.

If the police are unable to unlock your car, they will help you find a solution. They can give you suggestions and recommend professionals, like locksmiths or garages. They can also inform you if your car features the option of locking via remote and if it can be activated using your phone. Alternatively, you can leave a spare key with someone who can access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to unlock the doors and boot.

Although it's not a good idea to lock your keys inside your car, it's better to be prepared for the possibility. By being calm and evaluating your options, you will be able to quickly solve the issue. Keep an extra car key in your car, the emergency number of your breakdown service provider on hand and think about installing a key lock hidden on your vehicle to prevent further lockouts. You can also set up an alarm system on your vehicle and have the car keys reprogrammed to remove any previous owner's access. This will stop thieves from using your vehicle to steal your keys.