How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
It can be stressful if you lock your keys in the car. There are a variety of ways to retrieve your keys, but you must always exercise extreme caution when there are children or other people who are vulnerable inside.
The RAC suggests trying to retrieve your keys yourself before calling the police. These DIY methods could damage the interior of your car and should only be used as a last resort.
Do It Yourself
It's simple to lock your keys in the car or boot. It's more frustrating when you're far from home and are unable to get into your car. There are fortunately several options to deal with this problem. It is important to remain calm and assess the situation. Next, you need to figure out a secure way to exit the vehicle without causing any damage to it. There are many methods to accomplish this, from using coathangers to using apps and other methods. It is crucial not to be overly anxious as this could make things worse.
You can make use of a spare car keys to unlock the car. This is usually a great alternative for cars that have locks that are manual, however you might need to consider other tactics in the case of an automatic car. You can also make use of the long reach tool which is a type rod that has a loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to open the door or boot lock.
You can also try to locate the vehicle identification number by looking at the panel on the dashboard. This number is usually visible, but it can sometimes be hidden behind a cover. You could also try to find your VIN on your insurance form or proof of insurance. If unlock car keys cannot find it, a locksmith might be needed.
It is always a good idea to leave a spare key with someone you are confident in. You can then access your vehicle if you have forgotten your keys. This will spare you from having to call a professional. You should also think about putting the spare key 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 inexpensive and can be used to get into your vehicle in an emergency.
Call Your Breakdown Provider
Roadside assistance is included in a lot of cars as standard. If you're an AA member or AA or RAC, this should be the first number you dial. This will usually cover the cost to call an emergency locksmith to get back into your vehicle. Contact your provider directly if are unsure of what is covered by your breakdown policy or if there will be an additional cost.
You should also check whether your policy contains "key assistance". It's typically an optional add-on however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as an integral part of their policies. They'll pay for the call out of a locksmith and cover the cost of transporting your keys from the recovery operator to your garage or home (if they're closer) when you've got them locked in the car.
When you're locked out of your car, it's important not to take extreme measures to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and cause insurance to be cancelled, so it's never a good idea. Avoid breaking windows as it will make it more difficult to get into the vehicle.
There's no reason to contact emergency services unless your vehicle is in a hazardous location or you have children or pets in the car. If you're at risk of heatstroke or other health issues, you should also call the police.
If you are worried that your keys could be locked in your car, it's an ideal idea to leave a spare key with a friend or family member. You can also unlock your car with a smartphone application. This service is offered by a variety of manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. You should also consider the "companion app" if you own a smart vehicle. This will allow you to control your car's key features via an app. Alternatively, many garages can make a duplicate key for you, so if have a reliable mechanic in your area then this could be a possibility.
Contact a locksmith
It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys in their cars, particularly those who commute. If you have a spare car key or an app for your smartphone that unlocks the doors, this is an easy problem to solve. If you don't have these tools, it is time to talk to experts.
The first thing you must do if you've locked the keys to your car is to take a deep breath and try not to get stressed. If you panic, then it will be more difficult to think clearly and find a solution. It is also an excellent idea to begin looking for locksmiths online near you who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure a specialist arrives at your location quickly and make the experience less stressful.
You should contact your breakdown service first if you are a member. If they are unable unlock your vehicle without damaging it they will recommend a professional locksmith who has expertise with vehicles. The service could be offered free of charge or at a fixed fee, depending on the insurance policy you have.
Another option is to contact an individual locksmith, but it's important that you take your time when you contact a locksmith. You can locate an accredited and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. It is also advisable to confirm that your chosen locksmith has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.
Many people also resort to garages in their area when they are locked out of their car however, this could be more expensive than calling in professionals. They can be cheaper than attempting your own luck to gain access to the vehicle and do the job much faster.
If you are in a public place and you believe there is a risk to other road users, or that there are pets, elderly people or children in your vehicle, it is best to contact the police. It is best to call your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They will be able offer you advice and assistance.
Call the police
If you're on the move it's easy to lose your keys in your car. This is especially true when you're not at home. This is a risky and difficult situation to find yourself in if you are in the middle of nowhere far from any one. You might be tempted to try to find your keys on your own however this is generally not a good idea. You can damage your car and pay more money if you try to force locks or smash windows.
The first step is to examine the situation. Are you in a secure location and where can you go to return to your vehicle? Make sure your keys are secured in the car. It's amazing how many people leave their keys in their cars when they go to the store or the post office. If you are able to confirm that your keys remain in the car, it's now time to call for help.
If the police are unable to unlock your car, they will help you to find a solution. They can give you advice and recommend professionals, such as locksmiths or garages. They will also be able to inform you if your vehicle has a remote lock feature and if it can be activated via your phone. You can also leave a spare vehicle key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then make use of an app on their smartphone to open the doors or the boot.
It's not the best idea to lock the keys to your car inside however it is best to be prepared should this occurs. If you remain calm and evaluate your options, you'll be able to quickly resolve the problem. Keep a spare 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 avoid future lockouts. You can also install an alarm system on your vehicle and have the keys reset to eliminate any previous owner's access. This will stop thieves from using your vehicle to steal keys.