How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

If you have locked your keys in your car UK, it can be an extremely stressful situation. There are many options to retrieve your keys however, you must use extreme caution, especially when there are children or vulnerable persons trapped in.

The RAC suggests trying to retrieve your keys by yourself prior to calling the police. These DIY methods may cause damage to the interior of your vehicle 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 difficult especially if you're miles away from home and are unable to get into the vehicle. There are a variety of options to deal with this issue. It is important to remain calm and analyze the situation. The next step is to try to figure out how to open locked car door without key to get to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are a myriad of ways to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to trying out different apps and methods. It is important to not be overly anxious as this could cause more problems.

If you have a spare key that you have, you can use it to gain entry into your car. If your car is equipped with manual locks, this is a good solution. If it's an automatic vehicle, you might have try a different approach. You can also employ a long-reach device, which is a kind of rod that has loop or hook on the end. It can be used to open the door or boot lock and open it.

Another option is to locate the vehicle identification number (VIN) by taking a look at the dashboard panel on the dashboard. The VIN should be visible however sometimes it's hidden behind the plastic cover. You can also locate your VIN on your insurance documents or on your insurance proof card. If you are unable to locate it, a locksmith might be required.

It is advisable to leave the spare car keys with someone you trust. This will enable you to return to your car if you forget your keys. It will help you avoid the expense of calling a professional. You may also want to consider leaving the spare in a safe location like your home.

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

Contact Your Breakdown Provider

Many cars come with roadside assistance as standard and if you're member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of call. This will typically cover the cost of contacting a locksmith and getting you back in your vehicle. Contact your service directly if you are unsure of the coverage of your breakdown policy, or should you be concerned about an additional charge.

It's also worth checking whether you have 'key assist' as a part of your policy. This is often an optional extra, but some providers like Start Rescue include it as an integral part 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 operator to your garage or home (if they're close) when you've got them locked in the car.

It's important to not take extreme measures when you're locked outside your car. This could cause damage to your vehicle and invalidate your insurance. It's not a great idea. Also, avoid breaking windows, as this can make it even more difficult to enter the vehicle.

If your car is not in danger or you have children, pets, elderly people, or vulnerable people locked in the car it's not necessary to contact 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 concerned that your keys might be locked in your car, it's an ideal idea to leave a spare key with someone in your family or with a friend. You can also unlock your car with an app for smartphones. Numerous brands such as BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall provide this service. If you own a smart car you should also look into its companion app that allows you to control key features of your car remotely through an app on your phone. Many garages will create duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby you, this is a possibility.

Contact a locksmith

Locking your keys in your car is a very common occurrence, especially for commuters to school or work. If you have an extra car key or an application for your phone that allows you to unlock the doors, this is a simple situation to solve. If you don't have these options and you are in need of help, then it's time to contact experts!

Take a deep breath, and don't be afraid to lock your keys in your car. If you panic, then it will be even harder to think clearly and come up with a solution. It is also an excellent idea to begin searching online for locksmiths near you that specialise in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a skilled locksmith arrives at your location quickly, which makes the situation less stressful.

You should call your breakdown provider first if you are an active member. They will often be capable of gaining access to your car without damaging it, however should they not be able to do so, they'll likely recommend a locksmith with experience in dealing with vehicles. This service may be provided free of charge or for the cost of a fixed amount, based on your insurance policy.

You can also contact locksmiths but take your time. Using an internet search can help you find a reliable and experienced locksmith who is DBS verified and checked. You can also find out online if the locksmith you choose is accredited independently by the Master Locksmiths Association.

Many people also go to their local garages when they're locked out of their vehicle however, this could be more expensive than calling in a professional. They can be cheaper than attempting your own luck to get into the vehicle and they can accomplish the job faster.

Finally, if you are stuck in a public area and you feel there is a danger to other road users, or there are children, elderly persons or pets in the vehicle then you should contact the police. It is best to call your breakdown provider, or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They will be able offer you advice and assistance.

Contact the police

It's easy to lose your keys in the car when you're hurrying out the door for work or to collect your children from school, particularly when you're away from home. This is a dangerous and difficult situation to be in if you're located in the middle nowhere far from any one. You may be tempted to try to get your keys back yourself but this is generally a bad idea. Trying to force locks or break windows can damage your vehicle and cost you more in the long run.

The first thing you should do is evaluate the situation Are you in a safe place and where do you go to get back in your car? Check that your keys are secured in the car. It's amazing how many people leave their keys in their cars when they go to the shop or post office. If you are able to confirm that your keys remain in the car, it's time to call for assistance.

If the police cannot unlock your car, they can help you to find the solution. They can give you suggestions and recommend professionals, like locksmiths or garages. They can also tell you if your car features an option for remote locking and if it can be activated using your phone. You can also leave an extra key with someone who can access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open the doors and boot.

It's not the best idea to lock the keys to your car inside, but it's best to be prepared in case this occurs. You can quickly solve the problem by staying at peace and evaluating all possible options. To prevent future lockouts Always carry an extra key, keep the emergency number of your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and think about purchasing a hidden key device which can be connected to your car. Install an alarm system in your car and reprogram keys to remove access to previous owners. This will stop thieves from using your car to steal their own keys.