How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

If you have locked your keys in your car the UK, it can be a stressful situation. There are many methods to retrieve your keys, however you must take extreme caution if there are children or other vulnerable individuals inside.

The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys by yourself prior to calling the police. DIY methods can cause damage to the interior of your vehicle and should be only used as a last resort.

Do It Yourself

It's simple to lock your keys in the car or boot. It's even more difficult especially if you're far from home and can't easily access the vehicle. There are fortunately, several options to deal with this problem. The most important thing is to stay calm and assess the situation. The next step is to try to find a way to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are many ways to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to apps and other methods. It is essential not to be overly anxious as this could increase the risk of problems.

You can make use of a spare car keys to unlock the car. This is usually a good option for cars with manual locks, but you may need to try different methods in the case of an automatic car. You can also try to employ a long-reach device, which is a kind of rod that has an end loop or hook at the end. This can be used to reach the door or lock for boot and open it.

You can also locate the vehicle identification number by looking at the dash panel in the dashboard. The VIN is usually visible, but it can sometimes be hidden behind a cover. You can also locate your VIN on your insurance documents or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you are unable to locate it, a locksmith may be required.

It's always an excellent idea to leave a spare key with someone you are confident in. This will let you get back into your car if you forget your keys, and it will reduce the cost of calling a professional. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a safe location, such as your home.

It is also a good idea to keep a slim jim, or other tools for locking out your car in your vehicle. These tools can be helpful in gaining access to your vehicle in the event of an emergency, and they are not expensive to purchase.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Many cars come with roadside assistance in the standard package and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of contact. This usually covers the cost of calling a locksmith to get you back into your car. Contact your provider directly if are not sure the coverage of your breakdown policy or whether there is an additional cost.

You should also check if your policy includes "key assistance". It's usually an optional option 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 to come out and transport your keys to your house or garage.

When you're locked out of your car, it's important not to take any drastic steps to gain access. This could cause damage to the vehicle and void your insurance. It's not a good idea. Also, avoid breaking windows because this could make it even difficult to get inside.

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

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 use a smartphone application that allows you to unlock your car without using a physical key. This service is provided by several manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. It is also worth considering the "companion application" when you own a smart vehicle. This will allow you to remotely control the key features of your car via an app. Many garages can make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby it is an option.

Call a Locksmith

It is not unusual for people to lock their keys in their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you happen to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that will unlock your doors it is a simple problem to deal with. If you don't have these tools, it's time to call the experts.

Take a deep breath and don't worry if you lock your keys in your vehicle. If you panic it will be more difficult to think straight or come up with a good solution. You can also search on the internet for locksmiths in your area who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a specialist comes out to your location quickly, making the process less stressful.

If you are an employee of a breakdown company like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first point of contact. They are usually in a position to gain access into your vehicle without causing any damage to it, however if they are not able to then they will likely recommend a locksmith who is experienced in working on vehicles. This service can be offered free of charge or for a fixed fee, depending on the insurance policy you have.

You can also get keys out of locked car in touch with a locksmith, but you should proceed with caution. You can find a vetted and DBS-checked locksmith by searching on the internet. You can also find out online to see if the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.

Many people also turn to local garages when they are locked keys in car how to open out of their car however, this could be more expensive than calling in professionals. However, they can still be cheaper than trying to gain entry into the vehicle yourself and can often complete the job much quicker.

If you are in a public place and feel there is a risk to other road users, or there are children, elderly or pets inside your car, it is best to contact the police. However, it is always recommended to contact your breakdown company or an expert Auto Locksmith first before doing this because they'll be able to offer assistance and guidance in these instances.

Call the Police

It's easy to lose your keys in the car when you're rushing out of the door to work or to pick up your children from school, especially when you're away from home. This is a risky and stressful situation to be in if you're located in the middle of nowhere far from any one. You may be tempted to try to retrieve your keys yourself, but this is usually an unwise choice. Trying to force locks or break windows could cause damage to your vehicle, and cost you more in the long run.

The first thing you need to do is assess the situation is whether you are in a secure area and where can you go to get back in your car open service? Double-check your keys are really locked inside the car. It's amazing how many people forget their keys in their cars when they visit the store or the post office. If you're able verify that your keys are still in the car and you're not sure, call for help.

If the police are unable to unlock your car, they can help you to find an answer. They can provide advice and recommend professionals, such as locksmiths or garages. They will also be able to inform you if your vehicle is equipped with the option of a remote lock and if it can be activated via your phone. Alternately, you can leave the spare key with someone who has the ability to 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 in your car, it's better to be prepared for this situation. You can swiftly resolve the issue by remaining in a calm state and evaluating all of possible options. To avoid lockouts in the future, always carry an extra key. Keep the emergency number for your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and consider purchasing an invisible key device that can be attached to your vehicle. You could also install an alarm system on your vehicle and have the car keys reset to block any previous owner's access. This will also prevent thieves from using your vehicle as a way to take their own sets of keys.