How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
If you've locked your keys in car the UK, it can be an extremely stressful situation. There are a variety of ways to get your keys back however, you must use extreme caution, particularly when there are children or vulnerable people locked inside.
The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys by yourself prior to calling the police. These DIY methods can damage the interior of your vehicle and should only be used as a final resort.
Do It Yourself
It's easy to lock your keys in the car's boot or in the trunk. It's even more annoying especially if you're far away from home and unable to gain access to your 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 a secure way to get out of the vehicle without causing damage to it. There are a myriad of methods to accomplish this, ranging from using coat hangers to apps and other methods. The most important thing is to not panic, as this can only make the situation 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. However, if it's an automated vehicle, you may need to try another method. You can also make use of a long reach tool, which is a rod that has an end loop or hook at the end. It can be used to reach the door or boot lock and unlock it.
You can also try to locate the vehicle identification number by looking at the dash panel on the dashboard. The VIN should be visible, but sometimes it's hidden behind the plastic cover. You could also try to locate your VIN on your insurance paperwork or proof of insurance. If you can't find it, a locksmith may be required.
It is always an excellent idea to leave an extra key with someone you are confident in. lockout car service will let you get back into your car if you forget your keys. It will help you avoid the expense of calling an expert. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a secure location, such as your house.
It is recommended to keep a slim jim, or other automotive lockout tools, in your vehicle. These tools are inexpensive and can be used to get into your vehicle in the event of 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 contacting a locksmith and getting you back into your vehicle. If you're uncertain about what is included in your breakdown insurance policy or if it's likely to incur an extra charge make contact with the company directly to be sure.
It's also worth checking if you have "key assist" included in your policy. It's usually an add-on that is not required however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as a core feature of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll pay for a locksmith to be on hand to take your keys to your house or garage.
If you're locked out of your car, it's important not to take drastic measures to gain access. This could cause damage to the vehicle and could cause insurance to be cancelled and is therefore not an ideal idea. Avoid breaking windows since this makes it harder to enter the vehicle.
If your car is not in a danger zone, or you have pets, children elderly people, vulnerable people who are locked in your car it's not necessary to call emergency services. If you're at risk of heatstroke or other health issues you should also contact the police.
If you're concerned 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 unlock your car using an app on your smartphone. Many manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall provide this service. If you own a car with a smart feature you should also look at its companion app that allows you to control the key features of your vehicle remotely using an app that you can download to your phone. Alternatively, many garages can create a duplicate key on behalf of you, so if you have a reliable mechanic in your area then this could be a viable option.
Call for a locksmith
Locking your keys inside your car is a frequent occurrence, particularly for commuters to school or work. If you are lucky enough to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that will unlock the doors, then this is an easy situation to deal with. If you don't own these tools, it is time to contact experts.
Take a deep breath and don't worry if you lock your keys inside your vehicle. If you panic, it'll be difficult to think clearly or find a viable solution. It's also recommended to begin looking online for locksmiths close to you who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure a specialist will arrive quickly and make the process less stressful.
You should call your breakdown provider first, if you are an active member. They are usually in a position to gain access to your car without damaging it, but should they not be able to then they will likely recommend a locksmith who is experienced in working on vehicles. This service may be provided free of charge or at the cost of a fixed amount, based on the insurance policy you have.
Another option is to call a locksmith directly, but it is important to do this with caution. You can locate an accredited and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. It is also recommended whether the locksmith you choose is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which is possible online.
Many people also resort to their local garages when they are locked out of their car but this is more expensive than calling in a professional. They are less expensive than trying your luck to unlock the vehicle, and they will complete the task much quicker.
If you are in a public area and feel 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 company or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can offer assistance and advice.
Call the police
When you're on the go, it's easy to leave your keys in your car. This is especially true when you're not at home. This is a very risky and difficult situation to find yourself in, especially if you're in the middle of nowhere, miles away from anyone. You may be tempted to attempt to find your keys on your own however this is generally a bad idea. Doing anything to force locks or break windows can damage your vehicle and cost you more money in the end.
First, you should assess the situation. Are you in a secure location and where can you go to return to your car? Make sure you double-check that your keys are locked inside the vehicle - it's amazing how often people leave keys in their cars when they visit an outlet or post office. If you are able to confirm that your keys remain in the car, it's time to contact us for assistance.
While the police can't unlock your car, they can help you find the solution. They can offer advice and recommend professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. They will also be able tell you if your vehicle has a remote lock feature and if it is able to be activated using 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 phone to unlock the doors or open the boot.
While it's not ideal to lock your keys inside your car, it's best to be prepared for this situation. By being calm and evaluating your options, you will be able to quickly fix the issue. Keep an extra car key in your car as well as the emergency number of your breakdown service provider in case of need and think about installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. You can also set up an alarm system for your vehicle and have the car keys reset to eliminate any previous owner's access. This will also prevent thieves from using your car as a way to steal their own sets of keys.