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 a variety of ways to retrieve your keys however, you must use extreme caution, particularly if there are young children or vulnerable individuals trapped 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 car and should only be only used as a last option.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is an easy mistake to make. It’s more frustrating when you’re far from your home and cannot get into your car. There are fortunately several options to deal with this issue. It is crucial to remain calm and evaluate the situation. Next, you need to find a safe way to get out of the vehicle without causing any damage to it. There are a variety of strategies for doing this, from using coat hangers to trying different methods and apps. It is crucial not to panic, as this can make things worse.

If you have an extra key, you can use this to get into the car. This is usually a great option for cars with locks that are manual, however you might need to consider other tactics in the case of a car that is automated. You could also use a long-reach tool, which is a type of rod that has an end loop or hook at the end. This can be used to reach the door or boot lock opener near me and unlock it.

Another option is to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dashboard. The number should be displayed, but sometimes it’s hidden behind an opaque plastic cover. You can also find your VIN on your insurance documents or on your proof of insurance card. If you cannot find it, a locksmith might be needed.

It’s always recommended to leave a spare key with someone you trust. This will allow you to return to your vehicle in the event that you lose your keys, and it will help you avoid the expense of calling an expert. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a secure location, such as your house.

Keep a slim Jim or other lockout tool for your vehicle. These tools are not expensive and can be used to gain access into your vehicle in an emergency.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is included in a lot of cars as standard. If you’re an AA member or AA or RAC that is the first call you make. This will usually cover the cost of calling a locksmith to get you back into your car. If you’re uncertain about what is included in your breakdown insurance policy or if it’s going to incur an extra charge make contact with the company directly to be sure.

You should also check whether your policy contains “key assistance”. It’s often an optional feature however some companies like Start Rescue make it a standard feature of their policies. They’ll pay for the call out of a locksmith, and will cover any costs associated with transporting your keys from the recovery service to your home or garage (if they’re close) in the event that you have them locked in the car.

It’s important to not take extreme measures while locked outside your vehicle. This could damage the vehicle and could cause insurance to be cancelled, so it’s never a good idea. Avoid breaking windows as this can make it harder to get inside the vehicle.

If your vehicle isn’t in a dangerous position, or you have pets, children, elderly people, or vulnerable people locked in the car, there’s no need to call emergency services. It is also advisable to call the police if there is an increased risk of heatstroke or other health issues.

If you are worried that your keys will be locked in your car, it is recommended to leave a spare key with an individual from your family or a friend. You can make use of a smartphone app that allows you to unlock your car without keys that are physically present. This service is provided by many manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a car with a smart feature you should also look into its companion app, which will allow you to control the key features of your vehicle remotely using an app on your phone. Additionally, many garages will create a duplicate key for you, so if you have a trusted mechanic close by it could be a viable option.

Contact for a locksmith

It is not unusual for people to lock their keys in their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you have an extra car key or an app for your smartphone that opens the doors, it’s a simple situation to solve. However, if you do not have these options now is the time to contact experts!

Take a deep breath, and don’t be afraid to put your keys in your car. If you panic, then it will be even harder to think clearly and think of an answer. It is also an excellent idea to begin looking for locksmiths online near you that specialise in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a specialist comes out to your location quickly, which makes the process less stressful.

It is best to contact your breakdown service first if you are an active member. They’ll usually be capable of gaining access to your car without damaging it, but should they not be able to do so, they’ll likely recommend a locksmith with experience in dealing with vehicles. Based on your policy, this might be a free service or they might charge an agreed-upon fee for this type of service.

Another option is to call an individual locksmith, but it’s important that you be cautious when doing this. You can locate a DBS-checked and vetted locksmith by searching on the internet. It is also advisable to confirm that your chosen locksmith has been independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be done online.

If they’re locked out of the vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this can be more expensive than calling a professional. They are less expensive than trying your own luck to unlock the vehicle, and they will do the job much faster.

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

Call the police

It’s easy to forget your keys in the car when you’re hurrying out the door for work or to pick up your children from school, particularly if it happens while you’re away from home. If you’re located in a remote area away from anyone it’s an even more difficult and dangerous situation to be in. It’s tempting to try and retrieve your keys by yourself, but it is not a good idea. You may damage your car and pay more if you try to force locks on or smash windows.

The first thing to do is evaluate the situation – are you in a safe place and how do you to get back into your vehicle? Double-check your keys are really locked inside the car. It’s amazing how many people lose their keys in their cars while they visit the store or post office. If you are able to confirm that your keys are still in the car, it’s now time to contact us for assistance.

While the police can’t unlock your car, they will help you to find the solution. They can give you guidance and suggest professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. They will also be able tell you if your vehicle is equipped with the option of a remote lock and if it can be activated using your smartphone. You can also leave an extra key with someone who is able to access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to open the doors and boot.

It’s not the best idea to lock your car keys inside the car, but it’s a good idea to be prepared in case this happens. By staying calm and assessing your options, you’ll be able to quickly resolve the problem. To avoid lockouts in the future Always carry an extra key, keep the emergency number for your breakdown provider on hand and think about purchasing a hidden key device which can be connected to your car. You can also set up an alarm system in your vehicle and have the keys reset to eliminate any previous owner’s access. This will prevent thieves from using your vehicle to steal your keys.