How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
If you've locked your keys in your car the UK, it can be an extremely stressful experience. There are many ways to get your keys back however, you must use extreme caution, particularly in the case of children or vulnerable people locked inside.
The RAC suggests you try to retrieve your keys before calling the police. These DIY methods could cause damage to the interior of your vehicle and should only be only used as the 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 when you're far away from home and are unable to easily access the vehicle. There are several solutions to this problem. It is important to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to figure out how to get out of the car without causing damage to it. There are a myriad of ways for doing this, from using coat hangers to trying different methods and apps. The most important thing is to not panic, as this will only increase the severity of the problem.
If you have an extra key you can use it to enter the car. This is usually a great option for cars with manual locks, but you may need to try other methods in the event of a vehicle that is automatic. You can also use an extended reach tool, that is a rod that has hook or loop at the end. This can be used to reach the lock on the door or boot and then unlock it.
Another option is to try to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dash. This number should be displayed however sometimes it's hidden behind a plastic cover. You can also try to locate your VIN on your insurance paperwork or proof of insurance card. If you're unable to find it, you might have to contact a locksmith.
It is advisable to leave the spare car keys with someone you are confident. This will allow you to get back into your car when you misplace your keys, and will save you the expense of calling an expert. You might also consider leaving the spare in a safe location like your home.
Keep an extra slim Jim or another automotive lockout tool in your car. These tools are cheap and can be used to gain access into your vehicle in the event of an emergency.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
Many cars have roadside assistance as standard, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of contact. This usually covers the cost of calling an emergency locksmith to get back in your car. If you're unsure about what is included in your breakdown policy or if it's going to be a cost make contact with the company directly to be sure.
It's also worth checking if you have 'key assist' in your policy. It's typically an add-on that is not required 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 arrive and take your keys to your house or garage.
When you're locked out of your vehicle, it's vital not to take drastic steps to gain access. This can damage your vehicle and invalidate your insurance. It's not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows since this can make it harder to get into the vehicle.
Unless your car is in danger, or you have children, pets or elderly persons, or vulnerable people who are locked in your car there's no need to call emergency services. You should also contact the police if you are at the possibility of suffering from heatstroke or any other health issue.
If you're worried that your keys could be locked in your car, it is an ideal idea to leave a spare with someone in your family or with a friend. You can make use of a smartphone app that can unlock your car without a physical key. Numerous brands such as BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall provide this service. You should also consider the "companion app" in the event that you own a smart vehicle. This will allow you to remotely manage the features of your car via an application. Alternatively, locked keys in car service can make a duplicate key for you, so if you have a trusted mechanic nearby then this might be a viable option.
Contact an expert locksmith
It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys inside their car, especially those who commute. If you are lucky enough to have a spare key or an app for your smart phone that can unlock your doors it is a simple problem to deal with. If you don't own these tools, it is time to call the experts.
Take a deep breath, and don't panic if you lock your keys in your car. If you panic, then it will be harder to think straight and come up with an answer. You can also look online for locksmiths in your area who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure a specialist arrives quickly and make the process less stressful.
It is best to contact your breakdown service first if you are an active member. They will often be able to gain entry into your vehicle without causing any damage to it, but should they not be able to do this, they'll recommend an experienced locksmith in working on vehicles. Depending on your policy, it could be a no-cost service, or they might charge a set cost for this kind of service.
Another option is to speak with an individual locksmith, but it is important to do this with caution. You can find a DBS-checked and vetted locksmith by searching on the internet. You can also verify online to see if the locksmith you select is accredited independently by the Master Locksmiths Association.
If they are locked out of their vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this can be more expensive than calling an expert. They may be less expensive than trying your own luck to unlock the vehicle, and they will complete the task much quicker.
If you're stuck in a public place and you believe there is a risk to other road users or there are children, elderly persons or pets in the car it is recommended to contact the police. But, it is recommended to call your breakdown provider or an expert Auto Locksmith first before doing this as they will be able to offer assistance and guidance 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. If you're located in a remote area away from anyone, this is an even more challenging and risky situation to be in. It's tempting to find your keys on your own but it's not a good idea. You can damage your car and pay more if you try to force locks or smash windows.
The first thing to do is assess the situation - are you in a secure location and how do you to return to your vehicle? Next, double-check that your keys are locked inside. It's amazing how often people leave keys in their cars when they visit a store or the post office. If you are able to confirm that your keys are still in the car, it's time to call for help.
The police will not be capable of unlocking your vehicle, but they are able to help you find an answer. They can give guidance and suggest a professional locksmith or garage. They can also inform you if your car has a remote locking feature and if it is activated via your smartphone. You can also leave a spare car key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then use an app on their smartphone to unlock the doors or boot.
It's not the best idea to lock the keys to your car inside however it is best to be prepared in case this occurs. By staying calm and assessing your options, you'll be able to quickly fix the issue. Keep an extra car key in your car and the emergency number of your breakdown service provider in case of need and think about installing an invisible key device in your car to prevent future lockouts. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram keys to block access to previous owners. This will also stop thieves from using your car as a way to steal their own sets keys.