How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It can be a stressful experience if you lock your keys in the car. There are a variety of ways to retrieve your keys however, you must use extreme caution, especially when there are children or vulnerable people i locked my keys in my car inside.

The RAC suggests that you try to find your keys on your own before calling the police. These DIY methods can damage the interior of your car and should only be used as a final resort.

Do It Yourself

It's easy to lock your keys in the car or boot. It's even more difficult especially if you're far from home and are unable to gain access to your vehicle. There are fortunately various options for dealing with this issue. The most important thing is to stay calm and assess the situation. Next, you need to figure out a secure way to exit the vehicle without causing any damage to it. There are a myriad of ways for doing this, from using coat hangers to testing out different apps and methods. It is important to not be overly anxious as this could make things worse.

If you have a spare key you can use it to gain entry into your car. This is usually a good option for cars that have locks that are manual, however you may have to try other methods in the event of a car that is automated. You can also make use of the long reach tool that is a rod that has a loop or hook at the end. This can be used to reach the door or lock for boot and Open My Car it.

Another option is to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) by taking a look at the dashboard panel on the dash. The number should be displayed however sometimes it's hidden behind an opaque plastic cover. You can also find your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on your proof of insurance card. If you can't find it, a locksmith might be required.

Always leave an extra car key with someone you can trust. You can then get into your vehicle if you have lost your keys. This will save you from having to call an expert. You should also think about putting the spare key 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 are useful in gaining access to your vehicle in the case of an emergency and they are not expensive to purchase.

Contact Your Breakdown Provider

Roadside assistance is included in a number of cars as a standard. If you are a member of AA or RAC, this should be the first place you call. This will typically cover the cost of calling a locksmith and getting you back in your car. If you're uncertain about the coverage of your breakdown insurance policy, or if it will cost extra you should contact the provider directly to confirm.

It's also worth checking if you have 'key assist' as part of your policy. This is often an optional add-on, but some providers like Start Rescue include it as an integral part of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they will hire a locksmith to come out and transport your keys to your house or garage.

If you're locked out your car, it's important not to take any drastic steps to gain access. This could cause damage to the vehicle and void your insurance. It's not a great idea. It is also recommended to be careful not to break windows, since this could make it even more difficult to get inside.

Unless your car is in a dangerous position, or you have children, pets elderly people, vulnerable people who are locked in your car there's no need to contact emergency services. If there's a risk of heatstroke or any other health issue, you should also call the police.

If you're concerned about locking your keys in your car in the future, it's a good idea to leave an extra key with someone in your family or a friend. You can make use of a smartphone app that allows you to unlock your car without the physical key. This service is offered by several manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a smart car you should also look into its companion app that allows you to control the key features of your car remotely through an app for your smartphone. Many garages will make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician near it is an option.

Contact an expert 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 application for your smartphone that opens the doors, this is a simple situation to solve. However, if you do not have these options and you are in need of help, then it's time to call the experts!

Take a deep breath and don't worry if you put your keys in your car. If you panic it will be difficult to think clearly or find a viable solution. You can also look online for local locksmiths who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional will arrive quickly and make the experience less stressful.

If you are an active member of a breakdown provider like the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of contact. If they are not able to unlock your car without damaging the vehicle, they will recommend an experienced locksmith with expertise with vehicles. Based on your policy this could be free of charge, or they could charge the option of paying a fixed fee for this type of service.

Another option is to speak with a locksmith directly, but it's important that you be cautious when doing this. You can locate a vetted and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. You can also check online to see if the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.

Many people also resort to garages in their area when they are locked out of car service out of their car however, this could be more expensive than calling in an expert. However, they can be less expensive than attempting to break into your car yourself, and often complete the job much quicker.

If you are in a public place and you believe there is a risk to other road users, or there are pets, elderly, or children in your car locked and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to contact the police. It is best to call your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can give assistance and advice.

Call the Police

It's easy to lose your keys in the car door opener while you're hurrying out of the door to work or to collect your kids from school, particularly if it happens while you're away from home. If you're located in a remote area away from anyone and everything, it's an even more challenging and dangerous situation to be in. You might be tempted to attempt to get your keys back yourself but this is generally a bad idea. You could damage your vehicle and end up paying more money if you try to force locks or break windows.

First, you should examine the situation. Are you in a secure area? Where can you go for a return trip to your vehicle? Check that your keys are secured in the car. It's astonishing how many people lose their keys in their cars while they visit the store or the post office. If you're able to verify that your keys are in the car, it's time to contact help.

While the police can't unlock your car, they can help you find the solution. They can provide advice and recommend professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. They can also inform you if your vehicle comes with the option of locking via remote and if it can be activated by your phone. Alternately, 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.

Although it's not a good idea to lock your keys in your car, it's best to be prepared for the possibility. You can easily resolve the issue by remaining at peace and evaluating all your options. Keep an extra car key in your car as well as the emergency number of your breakdown service provider handy, and consider installing a key lock hidden on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. Install an alarm system in your car and reprogram keys to block access from previous owners. This will stop thieves from using your vehicle to steal keys.