How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

If you've locked your keys inside your car the UK, it can be a stressful situation. There are a variety of ways to retrieve your keys however, you must use extreme caution, especially in the case of children or vulnerable persons trapped in.

The RAC suggests you try to recover your keys before calling the police. DIY methods can damage the interior of your vehicle and should only be only used as a last option.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake to make. It can be even more difficult if you are miles away from home and are unable to easily access your vehicle. There are many options to deal with this problem. The most important thing is to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to try to figure out a way to get to get out of the car without damaging it. There are many different strategies to accomplish this, from using coat hangers to trying different methods and apps. It is essential not to panic, as this can increase the risk of problems.

If you have a spare key, you can use this to enter the car. This is usually a great 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 employ a long-reach device, which is a kind of rod that has an end loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to open the door or boot i lock my keys in my car and then unlock it.

You can also find the vehicle identification number by looking at the panel on the dash. The VIN should be visible however, sometimes it's hidden behind a plastic cover. You can also locate your VIN in your insurance documentation or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you are unable to locate it, you may need to call a locksmith.

It's always a good idea to leave a spare key with someone you can trust. You can then access your vehicle in case you've lost your keys. This will spare you from calling a professional. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a safe location, such as your house.

Keep a slim Jim or other locksmith tools for your vehicle. These tools are inexpensive and can be used to get into your vehicle in an emergency.

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 will usually cover the cost of calling an emergency locksmith to get back into your car. If you're not sure the coverage of your breakdown policy or if it's going to incur an extra charge make contact with the company directly to confirm.

You should also determine whether your policy provides "key assistance". This is often an optional extra however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as a core feature of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they will pay for a locksmith to come out and transport your keys to your house or garage.

If you're locked out of your car, it's important not to take drastic measures to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and could make your insurance invalid and is therefore not an ideal idea. You should also avoid breaking windows, because this could make it difficult to get inside.

There's no reason to contact emergency services unless your vehicle is in a dangerous position or you have children or pets in the car. It is also advisable to call the police if you think there's a risk of heatstroke, or other health issues.

If you're concerned that your keys might be locked in your car, it is recommended to leave a spare keys with someone in your family or with a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that will unlock your car without using a physical key. Numerous manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall, offer this service. It is also worth considering the 'companion application' when you own a smart car. This allows you to control your car's key features via an app. There are many garages that can create a duplicate key for you, so if you have a reliable mechanic in your area then this could be a possibility.

Call a Locksmith

It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys in their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you have an extra car door lockout key or an app for your smartphone that unlocks the doors, this is a simple situation to solve. If you don't own these tools, it's time to call experts.

The first thing you should 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 harder to think straight and think of an answer. It's also recommended to begin searching online for locksmiths near you who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure a specialist will arrive quickly and make the experience less stressful.

If you are an employee of a breakdown provider such as the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of call. If they are not able to open your car without damaging the vehicle they will recommend an experienced locksmith who has expertise with vehicles. Depending on your policy, this might be a free service or they may have an agreed-upon price for this service.

You can also speak to a locksmith but be cautious. Searching on the internet will help you locate an experienced and reliable locksmith who is DBS verified and vetted. It is also recommended to check that the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.

When they are locked out of the car, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this could be more costly than calling an expert. They can be cheaper than trying your luck to get into the vehicle, and they will accomplish the job faster.

If you're stuck in a public area and you believe there is a risk for other road users or there are elderly, children or pets inside the car then you should contact the police. However, it is recommended that you call your breakdown service provider or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this because they'll be able to provide assistance and advice in these scenarios.

Call the police

When you're out and about, it's easy to leave your keys in your car. This is especially true if you're not at home. This is a dangerous and difficult situation to find yourself in if you're located in the middle of nowhere and miles from anyone. It's tempting to retrieve your keys on your own but it's not a smart idea. Trying to force locks or break windows can damage your vehicle and cost you more in the long run.

First, you should examine the situation. Are you in a secure location and where can you go to return to your car? Next, double-check that your keys are locked inside the vehicle - it's amazing how often people leave keys in their cars when they visit a store or the post office. If you are able to confirm that your keys are still in the car door lockout, it's time to call for assistance.

The police will not be capable of unlocking your vehicle, but they can assist you in finding the solution. 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's able to be activated via your phone. You can also leave an extra key with someone who has the ability to access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open the doors and boot.

While it's not ideal to lock your keys in your car, it's best to be prepared for the possibility. By staying calm and assessing your options, you will be able to quickly resolve the problem. Keep an extra car key in your car as well as 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. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram keys to disable access to previous owners. This will stop thieves from using your vehicle to steal your keys.