How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
It can be stressful if you lock your keys inside the car. There are many options to get your keys back but you must always exercise extreme caution, especially if there are young children or vulnerable individuals trapped inside.
The RAC suggests that you attempt to locate your keys prior to calling the police. These DIY methods could damage the interior of your car and should only be used as a final resort.
Do It Yourself
Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake to make. It’s even more inconvenient when you’re far from home and can’t gain access to your vehicle. There are a variety of ways to address this problem. It is important to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to find a way to get out of the vehicle without causing damage to it. There are a myriad of ways to accomplish this, from using coat hangers to testing out different apps and methods. It is crucial not to panic as this will only make things worse.
If you have a spare key you can use it to get into the car. If your car has manual locks it is a great solution. However, if it’s an automatic vehicle, you might have try a different approach. You could also make use of a long-reach tool which is a type of rod that has a hook or loop on the end. It can be used to open the door or boot lock and then unlock it.
You can also try to identify the vehicle’s identification number by looking at the dash panel in the dashboard. The number should be visible, however it is sometimes hidden behind the cover. You can also find your VIN on your insurance documents or on your insurance proof card. If you cannot find it, a locksmith may be needed.
You should always leave the spare car keys with someone you trust. It is then possible to get into your vehicle in case you’ve forgotten your keys. This will prevent you from having to call an expert. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a safe place, such as your house.
It is recommended to keep a slim jim, or other tools for locking out your car in your vehicle. These tools are inexpensive and are able to be used to get into your vehicle in an emergency.
Call Your Breakdown Provider
Roadside assistance is included in a number of cars as a standard. If you’re an active member of AA or RAC it should be the first call you make. It will usually cover the cost of calling a locksmith, and getting you back into your vehicle. If you’re uncertain about the coverage of your breakdown insurance policy or if it’s likely to cost extra you should contact the provider directly to be sure.
It is also worth checking if you have “key assist” as part of your policy. It’s often an optional feature however some companies such as Start Rescue make it a mandatory feature of their policies. They’ll pay for the call-out of a locksmith, and will cover any expenses associated with transferring your keys from the recovery company to your home or garage (if they’re nearer) in the event that you have keys locked in your car.
When you’re locked out of your vehicle, it’s vital not to take drastic steps to gain access. This could cause damage to your vehicle and invalidate insurance. It’s not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows since this can make it harder to enter the vehicle.
There’s no need to call emergency services unless your vehicle is in a hazardous position or you have pets or children in the car. If there’s a risk of heatstroke or other health problems you should also contact the police.
If you’re worried about locking your keys inside your car in the future, it’s a good idea to leave the spare key with someone in your family or a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that can unlock your car without using keys that are physically present. Numerous brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall offer this service. If you own a smart car, it’s also worth looking at its companion app, which will allow you to control key features of your car remotely through an app that you can download to your phone. Many garages will create duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician near, this is an option.
Contact for a locksmith
It is not unusual for people to lock their keys in their car, especially those who commute. If you are lucky enough to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that will unlock the doors and open car the car, then this is a straightforward problem to resolve. If you don’t own the tools, it’s time to contact experts.
Take a deep breath and don’t worry if you lock your keys inside your car. If you panic, it will be difficult to think straight or come up with a good solution. It’s also an excellent idea to begin searching online for locksmiths near you who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your location quickly, which will make the process less stressful.
If you are a member of a breakdown company like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first port of call. If they are unable to unlock your car without damaging the vehicle they will recommend an experienced locksmith who has experience with vehicles. Depending on your policy, this might be a no-cost service, or they could charge the option of paying a fixed price for this service.
You can also speak to locksmiths, but you should be cautious. Using an internet search can help you find a reliable and experienced locksmith who is DBS verified and vetted. You can also find out online to see if the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.
When they are locked out of their car lock out, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this could be more costly than calling an expert. However, they can be cheaper than trying to break into your car yourself, and will often get the job done faster.
If you are in a public space and you believe there is a danger to other motorists, or there are children, elderly or pets in your car, it is best to contact the police. It is recommended to contact your breakdown company or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can offer you advice and support.
Call the Police
It’s easy to forget your keys in the car while you’re hurrying out the door for work or to pick up your children from school, especially if it happens while you’re away from home. If you’re in a remote area far from any one, this is an even more difficult and risky situation to find yourself in. You may be tempted try to retrieve your keys yourself however this is generally an unwise choice. You could damage your vehicle and end up paying more money if you try to force locks on or smash windows.
The first thing you need to take note of the situation Are you in a secure area and how do you to get back into your vehicle? Check that your keys are locked in the car. It’s astonishing how many people forget their keys in their cars while they go to the shop or post office. If you can confirm that your keys remain in the car and you’re not sure, call for assistance.
The police won’t be in a position to unlock car door without key your vehicle, but they will assist you in finding an answer. They can give advice and recommend an expert locksmith or garage. They can also tell you if the vehicle features the option of locking via remote and if it is activated using your phone. Alternately, you can leave the spare key with someone who has the ability to access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to unlock the doors and boot.
Although it’s not a good idea to lock your keys inside your car, it’s better to be prepared for the possibility. By being calm and evaluating your options, you’ll be able to quickly resolve the problem. Keep a spare car key in your vehicle as well as the emergency number of your breakdown service provider on hand and think about installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. Install an alarm system in your vehicle and reprogram the keys to remove access from previous owners. This will also stop thieves from using your vehicle as a vehicle to take their own sets of keys.