How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
If you've locked your keys in your car UK, it can be an extremely stressful experience. There are many options to retrieve your keys but you must always exercise extreme caution, especially in the case of children or vulnerable people locked inside.
The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys by yourself prior to calling the police. These DIY methods may cause damage to the interior of your car and should be only used as an option last option.
Do It Yourself
Locking your keys in your car or in the boot is a common mistake to make. It's even more annoying especially if you're far from home and are unable to get into the vehicle. There are fortunately various options for dealing with this problem. The most important thing is to stay at peace and analyze 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 myriad of ways for doing this, from using coat hangers to trying out different apps and methods. It is important to not panic as this will only make things worse.
If you have a spare key, you can use this to get into the car. This is usually a great option for cars with manual locks, but you may have to try other methods in the event of a car that is automated. You can also use the long reach tool which is a rod with an end loop or hook at the end. This can be used to open the lock on the door or boot and then unlock it.
You can also locate the vehicle identification number by looking at the panel in the dash. car opening service should be visible, however it may be hidden behind a cover. It is also possible to find your VIN on your insurance documents or proof of insurance card. If you cannot find it, a locksmith might be required.
It's always recommended to leave a spare key with someone you can trust. It is then possible to get into your vehicle if you've forgotten your keys. This will prevent you from calling a professional. You should also think about putting the spare key in a safe location, such as your house.
It is also a good idea to keep a slim jim, or other automotive lockout tools, in your vehicle. These tools are cheap and can be used to get into your vehicle in the event of an emergency.
Call Your Breakdown Provider
Many cars have roadside assistance in the standard package and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of call. It will typically cover the cost of calling a locksmith to get you back into your vehicle. If you're unsure about the coverage of your breakdown policy or if it's going to incur an extra charge you should contact the provider directly to be sure.
You should also determine whether your policy contains "key assistance". It's often an optional feature however some companies like Start Rescue make it a regular feature of their policies. They'll pay for the call out of a locksmith and cover the cost of transporting your keys from the recovery service to your garage or home (if they're nearer) in the event that you have keys locked in your car.
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 may invalidate your insurance and is therefore not a good idea. Also, avoid breaking windows, since this could make it even difficult to get inside.
If your vehicle isn't in danger or you have pets, children elderly people, vulnerable people locked in the car it's not necessary to contact emergency services. You should also call the police if you think there's a risk of heatstroke, or any other health issue.
If you're worried about locking your keys inside your car in future it's a good idea leave the spare key with an individual from your family or with a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that will unlock your car without a physical key. This service is offered by a variety of manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. You should also consider the 'companion application' if you own a smart vehicle. This allows you to remotely manage the features of your car via an application. Many garages will make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby, this is an option.
Call a locksmith
Locking your keys inside your car is a very common occurrence, especially for those who commute to work or school. If you're fortunate enough to have a spare key or an app for your smartphone that can unlock your doors and open the car, then this is a simple problem to resolve. If you don't have these tools, 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, it will be even harder to think straight and find the best solution. It is also recommended to begin searching online for locksmiths near you that specialise in vehicle access. This will ensure a specialist will arrive quickly and make the experience less stressful.
You should call your breakdown provider first, if you are a member. They are usually capable of gaining access to your car without damaging it, however if they are not able to do this, they'll recommend a locksmith who is experienced in dealing with vehicles. The service could be offered free of charge or at the cost of a fixed amount, based on your insurance policy.
You can also contact locksmiths but proceed with caution. Searching on the internet will help you locate a reliable and experienced locksmith who has been DBS verified and checked. You can also check online to see if the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.
Many people also turn to local garages when they are locked out of their car, but this can be more expensive than calling a professional. However, they can still be less expensive than attempting to break into the car yourself and can usually complete the task much quicker.
If you are in a public area and you believe there is a danger to other motorists, or there could be pets, elderly people or children in your car you should contact the police. However, it is recommended that you call your breakdown company or an expert Auto Locksmith first before doing this because they'll be able to offer assistance and guidance in these scenarios.
Call the police
If you're on the move it's easy to lose your keys in your car. This is especially true when you're not at home. If you're in a remote area miles from anyone, this is an even more challenging and risky situation to be in. It's tempting to try and find your keys on your own however it's not a good idea. You could damage your vehicle and pay more money if you attempt to force locks or break windows.
The first thing to do is assess the situation is whether you are in a secure area and where can you go to get back into your vehicle? Make sure your keys are locked inside the car. It's astonishing how many people forget their keys in their cars when they visit the store or post office. If you're able to confirm your keys are in the car, it's time to contact us for assistance.
If the police cannot unlock your car, they will help you to find the solution. They can offer guidance and suggest professionals, such as locksmiths or garages. They will also be able to tell you if your car has a remote lock feature and if it's able to be activated via your phone. You can leave a spare car key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then use an app on their phone to open the doors or the boot.
It's not the best idea to lock your car keys inside, but it's best to be prepared should this occurs. If you remain calm and evaluate your options, you'll be able to quickly fix the issue. To prevent future lockouts ensure you have an extra key, keep the emergency number of your breakdown provider on hand and think about purchasing a key lock which can be connected to your car. Install an alarm system in your vehicle and reprogram the keys to block access to previous owners. This will stop thieves from using the vehicle to steal keys.