How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
It could be a stressful time when you lock your keys in the car. There are many ways to retrieve your keys, however you should always exercise extreme caution if you have children or other vulnerable individuals inside.
The RAC suggests trying to retrieve your keys by yourself prior to calling the police. DIY methods like these can cause damage to the interior of your car and should only be used as a final option.
Do It Yourself
It's easy to lock your keys in the car's boot or in the trunk. It's even more difficult if it happens when you're miles away from home and unable to gain access to your vehicle. Fortunately, there are a few options for dealing with this problem. The most important thing is to stay at peace and analyze the situation. The next step is to find a safe method to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are many different strategies to accomplish this, from using coat hangers to testing out apps and other methods. The most important thing is not to panic, as this will only increase the severity of the problem.
You can use a spare car key to unlock the car. If your car is equipped with manual locks it is a great solution. However, if it's an automatic vehicle, you might have try a different approach. You can also use a long-reach tool, which is a kind of rod that has loop or hook on the end. This tool can be used to open the lock on the door or boot and then unlock it.
You can also try to locate the vehicle identification number by looking at the panel on the dashboard. This number should be visible, but it can sometimes be hidden behind the cover. It is also possible to find your VIN on your insurance form or proof of insurance. If you cannot find it, a locksmith might be required.
It is always recommended to leave the spare key with a person you are confident in. It is then possible to get into your vehicle in case you've forgotten your keys. This will spare you from having to call an expert. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a safe location, such as your house.
It is an excellent idea to keep a slim jim, or other tools for locking out your car, in your vehicle. These tools can be useful to gain access to your car in the event of an emergency, and they are not expensive to purchase.
Call Your Breakdown Provider
Roadside assistance is provided in a lot of cars as standard. If you're an active member of AA or RAC, this should be the first number you dial. This will typically cover the cost of contacting a locksmith and getting you back into your vehicle. Contact your provider directly if you are unsure of the coverage of your breakdown policy or should you be concerned about an additional cost.
It is also important to determine if your policy includes "key assistance". It's usually an optional extra but some providers like Start Rescue include it as an integral part of their policies. They'll pay for the call-out of a locksmith, and will cover any costs associated with transporting your keys from the recovery company to your home or garage (if they're closer) in the event that you have them locked in your car.
When you're locked out of your vehicle, it's vital not to take drastic measures to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and void your insurance. It's not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows as this can make it harder to get inside the vehicle.
There's no reason to call emergency services unless your car is in an unsafe location or you have pets or children in your car. You should also contact the police if you are at the possibility of suffering from heatstroke or any other health issue.
If you're concerned about locking your keys inside your car in future it's a good idea to leave an extra key with a family member or friend. You can also unlock your car using an app for smartphones. Many manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall, offer this service. You should also consider the 'companion application' in the event that you own a smart vehicle. This will allow you to remotely control the key features of your car via an application. There are many garages that can create a duplicate key on behalf of you, so if have a trusted mechanic close by it could be a possibility.
Contact a locksmith
It is not unusual 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 on your smart phone that can unlock your doors, then this is a straightforward problem to resolve. If you don't have these tools, it's time to talk to experts.
The first thing you must do if you've locked the keys to your car is to breathe deeply and try not to be panicked. If you panic, it will be more difficult to think clearly and find the best solution. You can also look online for locksmiths in your area who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional comes out to your location quickly, which will make the process less stressful.
If you are an active member of a breakdown company like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first port of call. They'll usually be in a position to gain access to your car without damaging it, however if they are not able to do this, they'll recommend a locksmith with experience in working on vehicles. This service may be provided free of charge or for a fixed fee, depending on your insurance policy.
Another option is to call an individual locksmith, but it's crucial to be cautious when doing this. Using an internet search can help you find a reputable and experienced locksmith who is DBS verified and vetted. G28 can also verify online if your chosen locksmith is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.
When they are locked out of their vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this can be more expensive than hiring a professional. They can be cheaper than trying your luck to gain access to the vehicle, and they will do the job much faster.
If you are in a public space and you believe there is a danger to other road users, or there could be pets, elderly, or children in your vehicle, it is best to call the police. It is recommended to call your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can offer assistance and advice.
Call the Police
If you're on the move it's easy to forget keys in your car. This is especially true if not at home. If you're in a remote area far from any one and everything, it's an even more challenging and risky situation to be in. You might be tempted to attempt to retrieve your keys yourself, but this is usually not a good idea. Intentionally forcing locks or break windows could cause damage to your vehicle and cost you more in the end.
First, you should examine the situation. Are you in a safe area? Where can you go to return to your car? Check that your keys are secured in the car. It's astonishing how many people leave their keys in their cars as they visit the store or the post office. If you can verify that your keys remain in the car, it's time to seek assistance.
While the police can't unlock your car, they can assist you in finding a solution. They can give you guidance and suggest professionals, like locksmiths or garages. They can also inform you if your vehicle features a remote locking feature and if it can be activated using your phone. Alternatively, you can leave an extra key with someone who is able to access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to unlock the doors and boot.
While it's not ideal to lock your keys inside your car, it's better to be prepared for this situation. If you remain calm and evaluate your options, you will be able to quickly fix the issue. To avoid lockouts in the future Always carry an extra key. Keep the emergency number for your breakdown provider on hand and consider getting an invisible key device that can be attached to your vehicle. Install an alarm system in your car and reprogram keys to block access from previous owners. This will prevent thieves from using the vehicle to steal keys.