How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It could be a stressful time if you lock your keys in the car. There are many ways to retrieve your keys but you must always exercise extreme caution, especially in the case of children or vulnerable persons trapped in.

The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys yourself before calling the police. These DIY methods could damage your vehicle's interior and should only be used as a final resort.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is an easy mistake to make. It's even more annoying when you're far from home and are unable to easily access the vehicle. There are fortunately, a few options for dealing with this issue. The most important thing is to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to find a way to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are a variety of strategies to accomplish this, from using coat hangers to trying out different apps and methods. It is crucial not to panic as this will only make things worse.

If you have a spare key that you have, you can use it to get into the car. If your car has manual locks, this is a good solution. But if it's an automated vehicle, you may have to look for a different method. You could also employ a long-reach device, which is a kind of rod with loop or hook on the end. This tool 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 dash panel on the dash. The number should be displayed however sometimes it's hidden behind the plastic cover. You can also locate your VIN in your insurance documentation or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you're unable to find it, you might need to call an locksmith.

It is advisable to leave an extra car key with someone who you trust. This will enable you to get back into your car when you misplace your keys. It will reduce the cost of calling an expert. You might also keep the spare keys in a safe place such as your home.

It is recommended to keep a slim jim or other tools for locking out your car in your vehicle. These tools can be useful in gaining access to your vehicle in the case of an emergency and they are not expensive to purchase.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Many cars have roadside assistance in the standard package and if you're member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of call. This usually covers the cost to call locksmiths to help you get back into your car. Contact your provider directly if are unsure of what is covered by your breakdown policy or if there will be an additional cost.

You should also determine whether your policy contains "key assistance". It's typically an optional feature, but some companies like Start Rescue make it a mandatory feature of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they will hire a locksmith to be on hand to take your keys to your house or garage.

When you're locked out of your vehicle unlock services, it's vital not to take extreme steps to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and could make your insurance invalid therefore it's not an ideal idea. Avoid breaking windows as this can make it harder to enter the vehicle.

If your car is not in danger, or you have children, pets, elderly people, or vulnerable people who are locked car keys in your car, there's no need to call the emergency services. You should also contact the police if you are at the possibility of suffering from heatstroke or other health issues.

If you're worried about locking your keys inside your car in future it's a good idea to leave an extra key with a family member or friend. You can also unlock car keys your car with an app for smartphones. This service is offered by many manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a car with a smart feature is a good idea to look into its 'companion app' which allows you to control key features of your car remotely via an app that you can download to your phone. Many garages will make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby, this is an option.

Call a Locksmith

Locking your keys in your car is a very frequent occurrence, particularly for commuters to work or school. If you have an extra car key or an app for your smartphone that opens the doors, this is an easy issue to resolve. If you don't have these tools, it is time to talk to the experts.

Take a deep breath, and don't panic if you lock your keys in your vehicle. If you panic, then it will be more difficult to think straight and come up with a solution. It's also recommended to begin looking for locksmiths online near you that specialise in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a skilled locksmith arrives at your location quickly, making the process less stressful.

It is best to contact your breakdown provider first if you are a member. They'll usually be capable of gaining access into your vehicle without causing any damage to it, but in the event that they are unable to do this, they'll recommend a locksmith with experience in vehicles. This service can be offered free of charge or at an agreed-upon cost, based on your insurance policy.

Another option is to call the locksmith directly, however it's important that you take your time when you contact a locksmith. A search on the internet will help you locate an experienced and reliable locksmith who is DBS verified and vetted. It is also recommended that your chosen locksmith has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be done online.

If they are locked out of the vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this could be more expensive than calling an expert. However, they can be less expensive than attempting to break into the car yourself, and usually complete the task much quicker.

If you are in a public place and believe that there is a danger to other motorists, or there are children, elderly or pets inside your car and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to call the police. However, it is always recommended that you call your breakdown provider or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to provide assistance and advice in these situations.

Call the police

It's easy to lose your keys in the car while you're hurrying out of the door to work or to pick up your kids from school, particularly if it happens while you're away from home. If you're in a remote area away from anyone, this is an even more challenging and dangerous situation to be in. It's tempting to get your keys back on your own but it's not a wise idea. Doing anything to force locks or break windows could damage your vehicle and cost you more in the end.

First, you should assess the situation. Are you in a secure location and where can you go to return to your car? Double-check your keys are really secured in the car. It's astonishing how many people leave their keys in their cars as they go to the shop or post office. If you're able to confirm your keys are in the car, it's time to call for help.

If the police cannot unlock your car, they will help you to find a solution. They can offer guidance and suggest professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. They can also tell you if your vehicle comes with the option of locking via remote and if it can be activated via your smartphone. Alternatively, you can leave a 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.

It's not the best idea to lock your car keys inside however it is best to be prepared in the event that this occurs. By being calm and evaluating your options, you will be able to quickly resolve the problem. Keep an extra car key in your vehicle as well as the emergency number of your breakdown service provider in case of need, and consider installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. You could also install an alarm system on your vehicle and have the keys reprogrammed to remove any previous owner's access. This will prevent thieves from using the vehicle to steal your keys.