How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

If you've accidentally locked keys in car your keys inside your car UK, it can be a stressful situation. There are many ways to get back 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 by yourself prior to calling the police. These DIY methods could damage the interior of your car and should be only used as the last 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 miles from home and are unable to gain access to your vehicle. Fortunately, there are several options to deal with this problem. The most important thing is to stay calm and assess the situation. Next, you need to find a safe way to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are many ways to do this, from using coat hangers to apps and other methods. The most important thing to remember is not to panic, as this will only increase the severity of the problem.

You can use a spare car key to unlock the car. If your car door open is equipped with manual locks, this is a good solution. But if it's an automated vehicle, you may have to look for a different method. You can also make use of a long reach tool, which is a rod with an end loop or hook at the end. This can be used to reach the door or boot lock and open it.

Another option is to try to find the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dashboard. The VIN should be visible, however it may 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 can't find it, a locksmith could be required.

It's always a good idea to leave an extra key with someone you trust. This will let you return to your car if you forget your keys, and will help you avoid the expense of calling an expert. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a safe place, such as your home.

Keep a slim Jim or any other lockout tool for your vehicle. These tools are not expensive and can be used to get into your vehicle in case of emergency.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Many cars have 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 typically cover the cost of calling a locksmith to get you 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.

It is also worth checking if you have "key assist" included as part of your policy. This is often 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 extreme measures when you're locked outside your vehicle. This could damage your vehicle and invalidate insurance. It's not a good idea. Also, avoid breaking windows as this can make it more difficult to get inside.

If your vehicle isn't in a dangerous position, or you have pets, children or elderly persons, or vulnerable people who are locked in your car it's not necessary to call emergency services. You should also call the police if there is an increased risk of heatstroke or any other health issue.

If you're concerned about locking your keys inside your car in the future it's a good idea to leave the spare key lockout service with a family member or friend. You can also unlock your car with an app for smartphones. This service is offered by a variety of manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a car with a smart feature is a good idea to look at its companion app that allows you to control the key features of your car remotely through an app for your smartphone. Many garages can make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician near you, this is a possibility.

Call for a locksmith

It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys in their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you're fortunate enough to have a spare key or an app on your smartphone that can unlock the doors, then this is a straightforward problem to deal with. However, if you don't have these options available and you are in need of help, then it's time to contact the experts!

Take a deep breath, and don't panic if you lock your keys inside your vehicle. If you panic, it'll be more difficult to think straight or think of a suitable solution. You can also look online for locksmiths in your area that specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a skilled locksmith arrives at your place quickly, which makes the situation less stressful.

If you are a member of a breakdown company like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first point of contact. They will often be in a position to gain access to your car without damaging it, however if they are not able to do so, they'll likely recommend a locksmith who is experienced in vehicles. The service could be offered free of charge or for a fixed fee, depending on your insurance policy.

Another option is to speak with the locksmith directly, however it's crucial to do this with caution. You can find an accredited and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. It is also advisable to confirm that the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.

If they're locked out of the car, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this could be more expensive than calling a professional. They are less expensive than trying your luck to gain access to the vehicle, and they will do the job much faster.

If you are in a public area and feel there is a danger to other motorists, or there may be pets, elderly people or children inside your car you should contact the police. It is recommended to contact your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can offer assistance and advice.

Call the police

It's easy to lose your keys in the car when you're rushing out the door for work or to collect your children from school, particularly if it happens while you're away from home. This is a very risky and difficult situation to find yourself in if you're located in the middle of nowhere and miles from anyone. You may be tempted attempt to retrieve your keys yourself however this is generally an unwise choice. You could damage your vehicle and pay more money if you attempt to force locks or break windows.

The first step is to examine the situation. Are you in a safe area and where can you go for a return trip to your vehicle? Make sure you double-check that your keys are locked inside the vehicle - it's shocking how often people forget to lock them in their cars when they go to a store or the post office. If you're able verify that your keys remain in the vehicle then it's time to contact help.

If the police cannot unlock your car, they can assist you in finding a solution. They can provide advice and recommend professionals, such as locksmiths or garages. They can also inform you if your vehicle comes with the option of locking via remote and if it can be activated via your smartphone. Alternately, you can leave the spare key with someone who is able to access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open the doors and boot.

It's not ideal to lock your car keys inside, but it's best to be prepared in case this happens. You can easily solve the problem by staying at peace and evaluating all your options. To avoid future lockouts ensure you have an extra key. Keep the emergency number for your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and consider getting a key lock that can be attached to your vehicle. Install an alarm system in your car and reprogram the keys to remove access to previous owners. This will also prevent thieves from using your car as a way to take their own sets of keys.