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 many methods to retrieve your keys, but you should always exercise extreme caution when there are children or other people who are vulnerable inside.
The RAC recommends that 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 the last option.
Do It Yourself
Locking your keys in your car or in the boot is a common mistake that people make. It's even more annoying when you're miles from home and are unable to easily access your vehicle. Fortunately, there are a few options for dealing with this problem. It is crucial to remain calm and assess the situation. The next step is to figure out a way to get out of the car without causing any damage to it. There are many methods to accomplish this, ranging from using coathangers to using apps and other methods. It is crucial not to panic, as this can make things worse.
You can make use of a spare car keys to unlock the vehicle. If your car has manual locks, this is a good solution. But if it's an automatic vehicle, you may have to try another method. You can also make use of an extended reach tool, which is a type rod with an end loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to unlock the boot or door lock.
Another option is to try to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) by checking the dash panel on the dash. The number should be displayed, but sometimes it's hidden behind the plastic cover. You can also find your VIN on your insurance documents or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you can't find it, a locksmith might be required.
It is always a good idea to leave an extra key with someone you are confident in. This will allow you to get back into your car if you forget your keys, and will help you avoid the expense of calling an expert. You may also want to consider leaving the spare in a safe place such as your home.
It's an excellent idea to keep a slim jim, or other tools for locking out your car in your vehicle. These tools are useful to gain access to your car in the case of an emergency and they are not expensive to purchase.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
Many cars have roadside assistance and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of call. This usually covers the cost to call locksmiths to help you get back into your car. If you're not sure what is included in your breakdown policy or if it's going to be a cost make contact with the company directly to confirm.
unlock car keys is also worth checking if you have "key assist" in your policy. It's usually an optional add-on but some providers like Start Rescue include it as a core feature 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.
It is important not to take extreme measures when you're locked out of your car. This could damage the vehicle and could cause insurance to be cancelled therefore it's not an ideal idea. It is also recommended to be careful not to break windows, as this can make it even difficult to get inside.
There's no reason to call emergency services unless your car is in a dangerous situation or you have children or pets in the car. If there's a risk of heatstroke or other health problems you should also contact the police.
If you're concerned about locking your keys in your car in future, it's a good idea to leave the spare 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 use of a physical key. This service is offered by many manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a smart car is a good idea to look at its companion app, which will allow you to control the key features of your vehicle remotely using an app that you can download to your phone. Additionally, many garages will make a duplicate key for you, so if you have a trusted mechanic nearby then this could be a possibility.
Contact a locksmith
It is not unusual for people to lock their keys inside their car, especially those who commute. If you have an extra car key or an app for your smartphone that opens the doors, it's an easy issue to resolve. If you don't own the tools, it's time to call experts.
The first thing you need to do if you have locked your keys in your car is to breathe deeply and try not to get stressed. If you panic, then it will be harder to think clearly and find a solution. It's also recommended to begin looking for locksmiths online near you that specialise in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your location quickly and make the situation less stressful.
It is best to contact your breakdown provider first if you are already a member. They'll usually be in a position to gain access to your car without damaging it, but should they not be able to then they will likely recommend an experienced locksmith in dealing with vehicles. This service may be provided free of charge or for an agreed-upon cost, based on the insurance policy you have.
You can also contact locksmiths, but you should proceed with caution. A search on the internet can help you find an experienced and reliable locksmith who is DBS checked and vetted. You can also check online if the locksmith you choose is accredited independently by the Master Locksmiths Association.
Many people also turn to their local garages when they are locked out of their car, but this can be more expensive than calling in professionals. They may be less expensive than trying your luck to gain access to the vehicle, and they will complete the task much quicker.
In the end, if you're stuck in a public area and you believe there is a risk to other road users or there are children, elderly people or pets in the car it is recommended to contact the police. However, it is recommended to contact your breakdown service provider or an expert Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to offer advice and support in these instances.
Call the Police
When you're out and about it's easy to lose your keys in your car. This is especially true if not at home. This is a dangerous and difficult situation to find yourself in if you're located in the middle of nowhere and miles from anyone. It's tempting to try and get your keys back on your own, but it is not a smart idea. Intentionally forcing locks or break windows could cause damage to your vehicle, and cost you more in the end.
First, you should examine the situation. Are you in a safe area? Where can you go to return to your car? Double-check your keys are really secured in the car. It's astonishing how many people forget their keys in their cars as they visit the store or the post office. If you're able to confirm your keys are still in the car, it's time to call for help.
While the police can't unlock your car, they will help you find an answer. They can give guidance and suggest an expert, such as a locksmith or garage. They'll also be able to inform you if your car has a remote lock feature and if it's able to be activated using your smartphone. You can also leave a spare key with someone who can access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open the doors and boot.
While it's not ideal to lock your keys in your car, it's best to be prepared for this scenario. You can quickly solve the problem by staying in a calm state and evaluating all of possibilities. Keep an extra car key in your vehicle, the emergency number of your breakdown service provider handy and think about installing an invisible key device in your vehicle to prevent further lockouts. You can also set up an alarm system for your vehicle and have the keys reset to block any previous owner's access. This will stop thieves from using the car to steal their own keys.