How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
It can be stressful when you lock your keys in the car. There are several ways to retrieve your keys, however you should always exercise extreme caution when there are children or other vulnerable people inside.
The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys yourself before calling the police. DIY methods can cause damage to the interior of your vehicle and should be used as an option last option.
Do It Yourself
Locking your keys in your car or boot is an easy mistake to make. It can be even more difficult when you're far from home and are unable to get into your car. There are a variety of options to deal with this problem. It is essential to remain calm and assess the situation. Next, you need to find a safe way to exit the vehicle without damaging it. There are many ways to do this, ranging from using coathangers to apps and other methods. The most important thing is not to panic, as this will only cause the situation to get worse.
If you have a spare key that you have, you can use it to gain entry into your car. If your car has manual locks it is a great solution. But if it's an automatic vehicle, you may have to try another method. You can also use a long reach tool, which is a rod with hook or loop at the end. This tool can be used to reach the door or lock for boot and unlock it.
Another option is to find the vehicle identification number (VIN) by taking a look at the dashboard panel on the dash. The number is usually visible, but it is sometimes hidden behind a cover. It is also possible to locate your VIN on your insurance paperwork or proof of insurance card. If locked car keys in car are unable to locate it, you may need to call an locksmith.
You should always leave an extra car key with someone you are confident. It is then possible to get into your vehicle if you've lost your keys. This will spare you from having to call a professional. You should also think about putting the spare key in a secure location, such as your house.
It's recommended to keep a slim jim, or any other lockout tool for your vehicle, in your vehicle. These tools are inexpensive and can be used to gain access into your vehicle in case of emergency.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
Many cars come with roadside assistance, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this is your first port of contact. This will usually cover the cost of calling a locksmith to get you back into your vehicle. If you're uncertain about what is included in your breakdown policy, or if it will be a cost make contact with the company directly to be sure.
You should also check whether your policy contains 'key assistance'. It's typically an optional feature however some companies like Start Rescue make it a standard feature 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.
It is important not to take drastic measures when you're locked out of your vehicle. This can damage the vehicle and make your insurance invalid and is therefore not an ideal idea. Avoid breaking windows since this makes it harder to enter the vehicle.
There's no need to call emergency services unless your car is in a hazardous situation or you have pets or children in the car. If there's a chance of heatstroke or other health issues, you should also call the police.
If you're concerned about locking your keys inside your car in the future it's a good idea to leave a spare key with an individual from your family or with a friend. You can also unlock your car with an app on your smartphone. Many manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall offer this service. If you own a smart car is a good idea to look at its companion app which allows you to control the 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 nearby you, this is a possibility.
Call 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 phone that allows you to unlock the doors, it's a simple situation to solve. If you do not have these options now is the time to call in experts!
Take a deep breath and don't panic if you lock your keys inside your car. If you panic, then it will be even harder to think clearly and find the best solution. It's also an excellent idea to begin looking for locksmiths online near you who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a specialist comes out to your location quickly, which makes the situation less stressful.
You should contact your breakdown service first if you are an active member. They'll usually be capable of gaining access into your vehicle without causing any damage to it, however if they are not able to do this, they'll recommend a locksmith with experience in dealing with vehicles. Based on your policy it could be a no-cost service, or they could charge a set cost for this kind of service.
Another option is to speak with an individual locksmith, but it's crucial to do this with caution. You can find 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 local garages in the event of being locked out of their vehicle, but this can be more expensive than calling professionals. However, they can be cheaper than trying to break into your car yourself, and often get the job done much quicker.
If you are in a public space and you believe there is a risk to other road users, or that there are children, elderly or pets in your car and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to contact the police. It is recommended to contact your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can give assistance and advice.
Contact the police
It's easy to lose your keys in the car while you're hurrying out the door for work or to pick up your kids from school, especially when you're away from home. This is a very risky and difficult situation to find yourself in if you're located in the middle nowhere far from any one. It's tempting to try and retrieve your keys by yourself however it's not a good idea. You may damage your car and end up paying more money if you try to force locks or smash windows.
The first thing you should take note of the situation is whether you are in a secure area and where can you go to get back in your car? Next, double-check that your keys are locked inside - it's shocking how often people leave them in their cars when they visit an establishment or post office. If you're able verify 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 your vehicle, but they can help you find a solution. They can give you advice and recommend professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. They'll also be able tell you if your vehicle is equipped with a remote lock feature and if it's able to be activated using your smartphone. You can also leave a spare vehicle key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then utilize an app on their smartphone to open the doors or the boot.
It's not ideal to lock your car keys inside, but it's best to be prepared in case this occurs. By staying calm and assessing your options, you'll be able to quickly solve the issue. To avoid lockouts in the future ensure you have an extra key. Keep the emergency number for your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and think about purchasing a key lock that can be attached to your vehicle. You could also install an alarm system on your vehicle and have the car keys reset to block any previous owner's access. This will also prevent thieves from using your car as a vehicle to steal their own sets keys.