How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It can be a stressful experience if you lock your keys inside the car. There are many methods to retrieve your keys, however you should always exercise extreme caution if there are children or other vulnerable individuals inside.

The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys on your own before calling the police. These DIY methods could harm the interior of your vehicle and should only be only used as an option last resort.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is an easy mistake to make. It's more frustrating when you're miles from your home and cannot gain access to your vehicle. Fortunately, there are various options for dealing with this problem. It is crucial to remain calm and analyze the situation. The next step is to find a way to get out of the car without causing any damage to it. There are a variety of strategies to accomplish this, from using coat hangers to testing different methods and apps. It is crucial not to panic, as this can make things worse.

You can use a spare car key to unlock the car. If your car is equipped with manual locks it is a great solution. However, if it's an automatic vehicle, you may need try a different approach. You can also employ a long reach tool, which is a rod that has hook or loop at the end. This tool can be used to open the door or boot lock the key in the car and unlock it.

You can also identify the vehicle's identification number by looking at the dash panel in the dashboard. The VIN should be visible, however it may be hidden behind a cover. You could also try to locate your VIN on your insurance form or proof of insurance card. If you are unable to locate it, you might have to contact an locksmith.

Always leave the spare car keys with someone who you are confident. It is then possible to get into your vehicle if you've lost your keys. This will save you from having to call an expert. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a safe location, like your home.

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

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is offered in many cars as standard. If you are a member of AA or RAC it should be the first call you make. It will typically cover the cost of calling an emergency locksmith to get back in your car. Contact your provider directly if aren't sure of what is covered by your breakdown policy, or should you be concerned about an additional cost.

You should also check whether your policy contains "key assistance". It's often an optional feature, but some companies like Start Rescue make it a mandatory 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 company to your garage or home (if they're nearer) when you've got them locked in your car.

If you're locked out of your vehicle, it's vital not to take extreme steps to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and cause insurance to be cancelled, so it's never an ideal idea. Also, avoid breaking windows, as this can make it more difficult to get inside.

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

If you're concerned about locking your keys in your car in the future it's a good idea leave an extra key with a family member or friend. You can also unlock your car using a smartphone application. This service is provided by a variety of manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a smart car, it's also worth looking at its companion app which allows you to control the key features of your car remotely through an app that you can download to your phone. There are many garages that can create a duplicate key on behalf of you, so if have a trusted mechanic nearby it could be an option.

Contact an expert locksmith

It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys inside their cars, particularly those who commute. If you happen to have a spare key or an app for your smart phone that will unlock the doors it is a straightforward problem to resolve. If you don't have these tools, it's time to call the experts.

The first thing you must do if you have locked your keys inside your car is to breathe deeply and try not to be panicked. If you panic, it will be even harder to think straight and think of a solution. You can also look online for locksmiths in your area that specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your location quickly, which makes the process less stressful.

You should contact your breakdown provider first, if you are an active member. If they are unable open your vehicle without damaging it they will suggest an experienced locksmith who has previous experience working with vehicles. Based on your policy this could be a no-cost service, or they could charge a set price for this service.

You can also contact a locksmith however, you must take your time. You can find an accredited and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. It is also advisable to confirm whether the locksmith you choose has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.

If they're locked car keys in car out of the car, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this could be more expensive than calling an expert. They are less expensive than trying your luck to get into the vehicle and they can complete the task much quicker.

Finally, if you are stuck in a public space and feel that there is a risk for other road users or that there are children, elderly people or pets in the car it is recommended to contact the police. It is recommended to call your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can offer assistance and advice.

Call the Police

It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing out of the door to work or to collect your children from school, especially when you're away from home. This is a risky and difficult situation to find yourself in if you're located in the middle of nowhere and miles from anyone. It's tempting to try and retrieve your keys by yourself but it's not a good idea. You could damage your vehicle and end up paying more money if you try to force locks or break windows.

The first thing you should do is evaluate the situation is whether you are in a safe place and how to unlock your car do you to get back into your vehicle? Make sure you double-check that your keys really are locked inside the vehicle - it's shocking how often people leave keys in their cars when they go to a store or the post office. If you are able to confirm that your keys are in the car, it's now time to contact us for assistance.

The police won't be able to unlock your vehicle, but they will help you find a solution. They can give you suggestions and recommend professionals, like a garage or locksmith. They can also tell you if the vehicle features an option for remote locking and if this can be activated using your phone. You can also leave an extra key with someone who is able to access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to unlock the doors and boot.

It's not a good idea to lock your car keys inside the car, but it's a good idea to be prepared in the event that this happens. If you remain calm and evaluate your options, you can quickly resolve the problem. To prevent future lockouts ensure you have a spare key, keep the emergency number of your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and think about purchasing an invisible key device that attaches to your car locked. Install an alarm system in your car and reprogram keys to disable access to previous owners. This will also stop thieves from using your vehicle as a way to steal their own sets of keys.