How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
If you have locked your keys in your car the UK, it can be an extremely stressful experience. 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 in the car.
The RAC suggests that you try to find your keys by yourself prior to calling the police. These DIY methods could damage your vehicle's interior and should only be used as a last option.
Do It Yourself
Locking your keys in your car or in the boot is a common mistake that people make. It's even more annoying if you are miles away from home and are unable to get into your car. There are fortunately, several options to deal with this issue. It is crucial 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 any damage to it. There are a variety of ways to do this, from using coathangers to using apps and other methods. It is crucial not to panic as this will only increase the risk of problems.
You can use a spare car key to open the vehicle. If your car is equipped with manual locks it is a great solution. But if it's an automatic vehicle, you may have to try another method. You can also employ a long-reach device, which is a kind of rod that has an end loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to open the door or lock for boot and open it.
Another option is to try to locate the vehicle identification number (VIN) by taking a look at the dashboard panel on the dashboard. The number should be displayed however sometimes it's hidden behind an opaque plastic cover. You can also find your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you cannot find it, a locksmith might be needed.
You should always leave an extra car key with someone who you trust. This will allow you to get back into your car when you misplace your keys, and it will help you avoid the expense of calling a professional. It is also a good idea to think about putting the spare in a safe location such as your home.
It is also a good idea to keep a slim jim or any other lockout tool for your vehicle in your vehicle. These tools are inexpensive and are able to be used to get into your vehicle in an emergency.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
Many cars come with roadside assistance as standard and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this is your first port of contact. This usually covers the cost of calling a locksmith, and getting you back in your car. If you're unsure about the coverage of your breakdown insurance policy or if it's going to be a cost, contact the provider directly to be sure.
You should also check if your policy includes "key assistance". It's typically an optional add-on but some providers like Start Rescue include it as an essential part of their policies. They'll cover the call-out of a locksmith and pay any expenses associated with transferring your keys from the recovery service to your home or garage (if they're close) when you've got keys locked in your car.
It's important to not take extreme measures while locked outside your car. This could cause damage to the vehicle and may make your insurance invalid and is therefore not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows as this can make it harder to enter the vehicle.
Unless your car is in a danger zone or you have children, pets or elderly persons, or vulnerable people locked inside, there's no need to call emergency services. If you're at risk of heatstroke or other health issues you should also contact the police.
If you're worried that your keys might be locked in your car, it is a good idea for you to leave a spare key with a friend or family member. You can make use of a smartphone app that allows you to unlock your car without using the physical key. This service is provided by a variety of manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a smart car is a good idea to look into its 'companion app' which allows you to control key features of your car remotely via an app that you can download to your phone. Many garages will make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician near you, this is a possibility.
Contact a locksmith
It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys in their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you happen to have a spare key or an app for your smartphone that can unlock your doors it is an easy situation to solve. However, if you don't have these options and you are in need of help, then it's time to call in the experts!
The first thing you should do if you've locked your keys inside your car is to breathe deeply and try not to be panicked. If you panic, it will be harder to think straight or think of a suitable solution. It's also an excellent idea to begin looking for locksmiths online near you that specialise in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your location quickly, making the process less stressful.
If you are a member of a breakdown company such as the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first port of call. If they are unable unlock your car without damaging the vehicle, they will recommend an experienced locksmith who has experience with vehicles. Based on your policy, this could be a no-cost service, or they could charge the option of paying a fixed price for this service.
You can also get in touch with locksmiths, but you should be cautious. Searching on the internet will help you locate a reliable and experienced locksmith who has been DBS checked and vetted. It is also recommended whether the locksmith you choose is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.
Many people also resort to their local garages when they're locked out of their vehicle, but this can be more expensive than calling in professionals. They are less expensive than trying your luck to unlock the vehicle and do the job much faster.
Finally, if you are stuck in a public area and feel that there is a danger to other road users or that there are children, elderly persons or pets in the vehicle it is recommended to call the police. But, it is recommended to contact your breakdown company or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to provide assistance and guidance in these situations.
Call unlock car door service to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing out of the door to work or to collect your children from school, particularly when you're away from home. If you're in the middle of nowhere far from any one, this is an even more challenging and risky situation to be in. You may be tempted to try to get your keys back yourself, but this is usually an unwise choice. Intentionally forcing locks or break windows can damage your vehicle and cost you more in the end.
The first thing you should do is assess the situation Are you in a secure location and where can you go to get back in your car? Next, double-check that your keys are locked inside - it's surprising how often people forget to lock them in their cars when they visit an establishment or post office. If you can confirm that your keys are in the car, it's time to contact us for assistance.
If the police are unable to unlock your car, they will help you find a solution. They can give you guidance and suggest professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. They will also be able tell you if your vehicle is equipped with the option of a remote lock and if it can be activated using your smartphone. You can leave a spare car key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then utilize an app on their smartphone to open the doors or open the boot.
While it's not ideal to lock your keys in your car, it's better to be prepared for this situation. You can easily solve the problem by staying calm and assessing all your options. To avoid lockouts in the future ensure you have an extra key, keep the emergency number for your breakdown provider on hand and consider purchasing a key lock that attaches to your car. You can also install an alarm system on your vehicle and have the keys reprogrammed to remove any previous owner's access. This will also prevent thieves from using your vehicle as a vehicle to steal their own sets of keys.