How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
It could be a stressful time when you lock your keys in the car. There are a variety of ways to get back your keys, but you should always exercise extreme caution when there are children or other vulnerable people in the car.
The RAC suggests you try to locate your keys prior to calling the police. These DIY methods may damage the interior of your car and should only be used as an option last option.
Do It Yourself
It's simple to lock your keys in the car or boot. It's more frustrating if you are miles away from home and are unable to gain access to your vehicle. There are several options to deal with this issue. It is crucial to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to try to find a way out of the car without causing damage to it. There are many ways to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to apps and other methods. The most important thing to remember is not to panic, as this will only make the situation worse.
If you have a spare key you can use it to enter the car. If your car has manual locks this is a good solution. But if you have an automatic vehicle, you might have try a different approach. You can also employ the long reach tool which is a rod with hook or loop at the end. It can be used to reach the door or boot lock and then unlock it.
You can also find the vehicle identification number by looking at the panel on the dash. The number is usually visible, but it may be hidden behind the cover. You can also locate your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you are unable to locate it, you may need to contact an locksmith.
It is always an excellent idea to leave an extra key with someone you are confident in. It is then possible to get into your vehicle if you've lost your keys. This will save you from calling an expert. It is also a good idea to consider leaving the spare in a safe location like your home.
Keep an extra slim Jim or another lockout tool for your vehicle. These tools are cheap and can be used to gain access into your vehicle in case of emergency.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
A lot of cars come with roadside assistance as standard, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of contact. This will usually cover the cost of calling an emergency locksmith to get back into your vehicle. Contact your provider directly if are not sure what is covered under your breakdown policy, or should you be concerned about an additional charge.
It's also worth checking whether you have "key assist" included in your policy. It's typically an optional feature, but some companies like Start Rescue make it a mandatory part of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll pay for a locksmith arrive and take your keys to your home or garage.
It is important not to take extreme measures while locked outside your car. This can damage your vehicle and invalidate insurance. It's not a great idea. Avoid breaking windows as this makes it harder to enter the vehicle.
There's no reason to call emergency services unless your car is in an unsafe situation or you have pets or children in the car. You should also call the police if there is an increased risk of heatstroke or other health issues.
If you're worried that your keys might be locked in your car, it is an ideal idea to leave a spare keys with an individual from your family or a friend. You can also unlock your car with an app for smartphones. Many manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall offer this service. If you own a car with a smart feature is a good idea to look into its companion app that allows you to control the key features of your car remotely via an app on your phone. Many garages will make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby it is an option.
Contact a locksmith
Locking your keys in your car is a common occurrence, especially for those who commute to school or work. If you have an extra car key or an app for your smartphone that opens the doors, this is a simple situation to solve. However, if you do not have these options now is the time to contact the experts!
Take a deep breath and don't be afraid to lock your keys inside your vehicle. If keys locked in vehicle panic, it will be more difficult to think straight and think of a solution. It is also an excellent idea to begin looking for locksmiths online near you who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your location quickly, which makes the situation less stressful.
If you are an active member of a breakdown company such as the RAC or AA then this should be your first port of call. They'll usually be capable of gaining access to your vehicle without causing damage to it, however in the event that they are unable to do so, they'll likely recommend a locksmith with experience in dealing with vehicles. The service could be offered free of charge or at an agreed-upon cost, based on your insurance policy.
Another option is to call the locksmith directly, however it is important to take your time when you contact a locksmith. You can locate a vetted and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. You can also check online if your chosen locksmith is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.
Many people also go to garages in their area in the event of being locked out of their car but this is more expensive than calling in professionals. They can be cheaper than trying your own luck to gain access to the vehicle, and they will complete the task much quicker.
If you're stuck in a public area and you feel there is a risk for other road users or there are elderly, children or pets in the vehicle then it is best to contact the police. It is best to call your breakdown provider, or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can offer you advice and assistance.
Contact the police
When you're out and about, it's easy to leave your keys in your car. This is especially true if not at home. This is a risky and difficult situation to find yourself in if you're located in the middle of nowhere, miles away from anyone. You may be tempted to try to retrieve your keys yourself but this is generally a bad idea. You could damage your vehicle and end up paying more money if you attempt to force locks on or smash windows.
The first step is to assess the situation. Are you in a safe area? Where can you go to return to your vehicle? Make sure your keys are secured in the car. It's astonishing how many people leave their keys in their cars while they go to the shop or post office. If you're able to confirm your keys are in the car, it's time to call for assistance.
The police will not be able to unlock your vehicle, but they can help you find the solution. They can provide advice and recommend a professional such as a locksmith or garage. 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 from your phone. Alternatively, you can leave the spare key with someone who has the ability to access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to open the doors and boot.
While it's never ideal to lock your keys in your car, it's better to be prepared for the possibility. By being calm and evaluating your options, you can quickly fix the issue. Keep an extra car key in your vehicle, the emergency number of your breakdown service provider in case of need and think about installing a key lock hidden on your vehicle to prevent further lockouts. Install an alarm system in your car and reprogram the keys to block access from previous owners. This will stop thieves from using your vehicle to steal your keys.