How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It can be stressful if you lock your keys inside the car. There are several ways to get back your keys, however you must always exercise extreme caution if you have children or other vulnerable individuals in the car.

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

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake that people make. It's even more difficult when you're far away from home and are unable to gain access to your vehicle. There are many solutions to this problem. It is essential to remain calm and assess the situation. Next, you need to figure out a secure way to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are a myriad of ways for doing this, from using coat hangers to trying out different apps and methods. The most important thing is not to panic, as this can only make the situation worse.

You can make use of a spare car keys to unlock the vehicle. This is usually a great alternative for cars that have locks that are manual, however you might need to consider other methods in the event of a car that is automated. You can also employ a long-reach device, which is a type of rod with loop or hook on the end. It can be used to reach the door or boot lock and open locked car door it.

You can also try to find the vehicle identification number by looking at the dash panel on the dash. The number should be displayed, but sometimes it's hidden behind the plastic cover. It is also possible to locate your VIN on your insurance documents or proof of insurance. If you cannot find it, a locksmith may be needed.

It is advisable to leave the spare car keys with someone you trust. This will enable you to return to your vehicle in the event that you lose your keys, and will save you the expense of calling an expert. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a secure location, like your home.

It's also a good idea to keep a slim jim, or other tools for locking out your car, in your vehicle. These tools are useful for getting into your car in the case of an emergency and they are not expensive to purchase.

Contact 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 is your first port of contact. It will typically cover the cost of calling locksmiths to help you get back in your car. If you're uncertain about what is included in your breakdown insurance policy or if it's going to cost extra make contact with the company directly to confirm.

It's also worth checking if you have 'key assist' as part of your policy. It's usually an optional extra however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as an essential part of their policies. They'll pay for the call-out of a locksmith, and will cover any expenses associated with transferring your keys from the recovery operator to your home or garage (if they're nearer) in the event that you have keys locked in your car.

It's crucial to avoid taking drastic measures when you're locked out of your car. This could cause damage to the vehicle and could invalidate your insurance and is therefore not a good idea. You should also avoid breaking windows, because this could make it even more difficult to get inside.

Unless your car is in danger or you have pets, children or elderly persons, or vulnerable people locked in the car, there's no need to call emergency services. It is also advisable to call the police if you are at a risk of heatstroke, or any other health issue.

If you're worried about locking your keys in your car in the future, it's a good idea to leave an extra key with a family member or friend. You can also use a smartphone app that will unlock your car without the use of keys that are physically present. This service is provided by a variety of manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a car with a smart feature, it's also worth looking at its companion app that allows you to control the key features of your opening car remotely via an app that you can download to your phone. Many garages will create duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby, this is an option.

Call a Locksmith

It is not unusual for people to lock their keys in their cars, particularly those who commute. If you're fortunate enough to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that can unlock the doors, then this is a straightforward problem to solve. If you don't own these tools, it's time to talk to the experts.

Take a deep breath and don't be afraid to lock your keys inside your car. If you panic, it will be harder to think straight and come up with the best solution. You can also look online for locksmiths in your area who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your place quickly, making the situation less stressful.

If you are a member of a breakdown company such as the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of call. If they are unable to unlock your vehicle without damaging it they will recommend an experienced locksmith who has previous experience working with vehicles. Based on your policy, this could be a free service or they may have the option of paying a fixed cost for this kind of service.

Another option is to speak with an individual locksmith, but it's important that you do this with caution. Using an internet search will help you locate an experienced and reliable locksmith who is DBS verified and vetted. It is also recommended to check that your chosen locksmith has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.

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

If you are in a public area and believe that there is a danger to other road users, or that there are children, elderly or pets in your car, it is best to contact the police. It is recommended to contact your breakdown company or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They will be able offer you advice and assistance.

Contact the police

It's easy to forget your keys in the car while you're hurrying out of the door to work or to pick up your children from school, especially 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 challenging and dangerous situation to find yourself in. It's tempting to try and retrieve your keys by yourself however it's not a wise idea. You can damage your car and pay more money if you try to force locks on or smash windows.

The first step is to take a look at the situation. Are you in a secure area and where can you go to return to your car? Then, make sure that your keys really are locked inside. It's amazing how often people leave keys in their vehicles when they visit an outlet or post office. If you are able to confirm that your keys are still in the car, it's now time to call for help.

The police won't be capable of unlocking your vehicle, but they will assist you in finding the solution. They can offer guidance and suggest professionals such as a locksmith or garage. They can also tell you if the vehicle features a remote locking feature and if this can be activated using your phone. You can also leave an extra key with someone who can access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to unlock the doors and boot.

While it's never ideal to lock your keys in your car, it's best to be prepared for this scenario. By staying calm and assessing your options, you'll be able to quickly resolve the problem. To avoid future lockouts, always carry a spare key, keep the emergency number of your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and consider purchasing a hidden key device which can be connected to your car. Install an alarm system in your vehicle and reprogram the keys to remove access from previous owners. This will also prevent thieves from using your vehicle as a means to take their own sets of keys.