15 Things You Didn't Know About Locked Keys In Car Uk

How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

It can be a stressful experience if you lock your keys inside the car. There are several ways to retrieve your keys, however you must always exercise extreme caution when there are children or other vulnerable people inside.

The RAC suggests that you attempt to recover your keys before calling the police. These DIY methods may damage the interior of your car and should be used as the last resort.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is an easy mistake to make. It's more frustrating if you are miles away from your home and cannot get into your car. There are many options to deal with this problem. It is important to remain calm and assess the situation. The next step is to figure out a way to get to get out of the vehicle without damaging it. There are a myriad of ways for doing this, from using coat hangers to trying different methods and apps. It is important to not panic, as this can make things worse.

You can use a spare car key to unlock the car. If your car has manual locks it is a great solution. If you have an automatic vehicle, you may need try a different approach. You can also employ a long reach tool, which is a type rod with hook or loop at the end. This tool can be used to unlock the boot or door lock.

Another option is to try to locate the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dash. The number is usually visible, but it is sometimes hidden behind a cover. You can also find your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on your proof of insurance card. If you are unable to locate it, you might have to contact an locksmith.

You should always leave an extra car key with someone who you are confident. This will allow you to return to your car in the event that you lose your keys. It will reduce the cost of calling a professional. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a secure place, such as your house.

Keep a slim Jim or any other automotive lockout tool in your vehicle. These tools are cheap 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 are an active member of AA or RAC it should be the first number you dial. It will typically cover the cost of calling an emergency locksmith to get back into your car. If you're unsure about the coverage of your breakdown policy, or if it will be a cost you should contact the provider directly to confirm.

It's also worth checking if you have "key assist" included as a part of your policy. It's typically an optional feature, but some companies like Start Rescue make it a regular feature of their policies. They'll pay for the call-out of a locksmith and pay any expenses associated with transferring your keys from the recovery service to your garage or home (if they're close) if you have them locked in your car.

It is important not to take extreme measures while locked outside your vehicle. This could cause damage to the vehicle and could make your insurance invalid, so it's never a good idea. It is also recommended to be careful not to break windows, because this could make it more difficult to get inside.

If your vehicle isn't in a danger zone, or you have children, pets, elderly people, or vulnerable people locked inside, there's no need to call the emergency services. It is also advisable to call the police if you think there's an increased risk of heatstroke or other health issues.

If you're concerned that your keys will be locked in your car, it is a good idea for you to leave a spare keys with someone in your family or with a friend. You can also unlock your car with an app on your smartphone. Numerous manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall, offer this service. It is also worth considering the 'companion application' if you own a car with a smart system. This allows you to control the key features of your car through an app. There are many garages that can make a duplicate key for you, so if you have a trusted mechanic close by then this could be an option.

Contact a locksmith

It is not unusual for people to lock their keys inside their cars, particularly those who commute. If you happen to have a spare key or an app on your smart phone that will unlock your doors, then this is a straightforward problem to deal with. If you don't have these options available, then it is time to call in experts!

Take a deep breath, and don't worry if you lock your keys in your vehicle. If you panic, it will be even harder to think clearly and find an answer. It is also a good idea to start searching online for locksmiths near you who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional will arrive quickly and make the process less stressful.

You should call your breakdown service first if you are already a member. If they are unable open your vehicle without damaging it they will recommend a professional locksmith who has expertise with vehicles. Based on your policy, it could be a free service or they may have a set cost for this kind of service.

Another option is to call a locksmith directly, but it's crucial to do this with caution. A search on the internet will help you locate a reputable and experienced locksmith who is DBS verified and vetted. It is also recommended that the locksmith you select has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.

Many people also go to their local garages when they are locked out of their vehicle but this is more expensive than calling in an expert. However, they can still be cheaper than trying to break into the car yourself and can often complete the job much faster.

In the end, if you're stuck in a public area and feel that there is a risk for other road users or there are children, elderly people or pets in the vehicle it is recommended to contact the police. It is recommended to call your breakdown company or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can give assistance and advice.

Call the police

It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing out of the door to work or to collect your kids from school, particularly when you're away from home. If you're in a remote area miles from anyone it's an even more difficult and risky situation to be in. It's tempting to try and retrieve your keys on your own however it's not a wise idea. Doing anything to force locks or break windows could cause damage to your vehicle, and cost you more money in the end.

First, you must take a look at the situation. Are you in a safe area? Where can you go to return to your vehicle? Double-check your keys are really locked in the car. It's amazing how many people lose their keys in their cars as they go to the shop or the post office. If you're able to confirm that your keys are still in the vehicle, it's time to seek assistance.

The police will not be able to unlock your vehicle, but they are able to assist you in finding a solution. They can provide advice and recommend professionals, like a garage or locksmith. They can also tell you if your vehicle features the option of locking via remote and if this can be activated via your smartphone. You can also leave an extra key with someone who is able to access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open the doors and boot.

It's not ideal to lock your car keys inside the car, but it's a good idea to be prepared in the event that this happens. You can swiftly solve the issue by staying in a calm state and evaluating all of possibilities. To avoid lockouts in the future, always carry a spare key, keep the emergency number of your breakdown service on hand and consider getting a hidden key device which can be connected to your car. Install an alarm system in your car and reprogram the keys to remove access to previous owners.  G28  will also stop thieves from using your vehicle as a means to take their own sets of keys.