How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

If you've locked your keys in your car UK, it can be an extremely stressful situation. There are many ways to get back your keys, however you must always exercise extreme caution if there are children or other people who are vulnerable inside.

The RAC suggests you try to recover your keys before calling the police. These DIY methods may harm the interior of your car and should only 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 annoying when you're miles away from home and unable to easily access the vehicle. There are a variety of options to deal with this issue. The most important thing is to remain calm and assess the situation. Next, you need to figure out a secure way to exit the vehicle unlock services without causing any damage to it. There are a variety of methods to accomplish this, ranging from using coathangers to apps and other methods. The most important thing is not to panic, as this will only increase the severity of the problem.

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

You can also try to identify the vehicle's identification number by looking at the panel in 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, you might have to call a locksmith.

You should always leave an extra car key with someone you trust. This will let you return to your car when you misplace your keys. It will save you the expense of calling an expert. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a safe location, like your home.

Keep a slim Jim or other lockout tool for your car. These tools can be useful to gain access to your car in the event of an emergency, and are affordable to purchase.

Contact Your Breakdown Provider

Many 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 call. It will usually cover the cost of contacting a locksmith and getting you back in your vehicle. Contact your service directly if you are not sure the coverage of your breakdown policy or should you be concerned about an additional charge.

You should also determine if your policy includes "key assistance". It's typically an add-on that is not required, but some providers like Start Rescue include it as a core feature of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll hire a locksmith to be on hand to take your keys to your home or garage.

It is important not to take drastic measures when you're locked outside your vehicle. This could damage the vehicle and could invalidate your insurance and is therefore not an ideal idea. Avoid breaking windows since this makes it harder to get into the vehicle.

There's no reason to call emergency services unless your car is in a dangerous situation or you have pets or children in your car. You should also contact the police if you are at a risk of heatstroke, or other health issues.

If you are worried that your keys could be locked keys in car service in your car, it's an ideal idea to leave a spare key with an individual from your family or a friend. You can also unlock your car with an app on your smartphone. This service is provided by many manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. You should also consider the 'companion application' in the event that you own a smart vehicle. This will allow you to remotely control the key features of your car via an app. Many garages will create duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby you, this is a possibility.

Contact 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 for your smart phone that will unlock your doors and open the car, then this is a simple problem to resolve. If you don't have these options available and you are in need of help, then it's time to contact the experts!

The first thing you need to do if you've locked your keys inside your car is to take a deep breath and try not to be panicked. If you panic, it will be difficult to think clearly or think of a suitable solution. It is also recommended to begin looking online for locksmiths close to you who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your location quickly and make the situation less stressful.

It is best to contact your breakdown service first if you are an active member. They'll usually be able to gain entry to your vehicle without causing damage to it, however should they not be able to do so, they'll likely recommend a locksmith who is experienced in vehicles. This service may be provided free of charge or at an agreed-upon cost, based on the insurance policy you have.

Another option is to speak with an individual locksmith, but it is important to take your time when you contact a locksmith. You can find a vetted and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. It is also advisable to confirm that your chosen locksmith has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.

Many people also go to garages in their area when they're locked out of their car however, this could be more expensive than calling professionals. They can be cheaper than trying your own luck to get into the vehicle and complete the task much quicker.

If you are in a public space and feel there is a risk to other road users, or that there may be children, elderly or pets in your car you should contact the police. It is recommended to contact your breakdown provider, or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can give you advice and assistance.

Call the Police

It's easy to lose your keys in the opening car when you're hurrying out the door for work or to pick up your kids from school, particularly if it happens while you're away from home. This is a dangerous and difficult situation to be in, especially if you're in the middle of nowhere, miles away from anyone. It's tempting to get your keys back by yourself, but it is not a smart idea. Doing anything to force locks or break windows could damage your vehicle and cost you more money in the long run.

The first thing to do is evaluate the situation Are you in a safe place and where do you go to get back in your car? Double-check your keys are really secured in the car. It's amazing how many people forget their keys in their cars when they go to the shop or post office. If you can verify that your keys are in the vehicle, it's time to contact help.

The police won't be in a position to unlock your vehicle, but they can help you find an answer. They can give you suggestions and recommend professionals, like locksmiths or garages. They'll also be able to inform you if your vehicle has an option for remote locking and if it's able to be activated from your phone. Alternatively, you can leave a spare key with someone who has the ability to access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to open the doors and boot.

While it's never ideal to lock your keys inside 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 your options. Keep a spare car key in your car, the emergency number of your breakdown service provider in case of need and think about installing a key lock hidden on your vehicle to prevent further lockouts. Install an alarm system inside your vehicle and reprogram the keys to disable access from previous owners. This will also stop thieves from using your vehicle as a vehicle to take their own sets of keys.