How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
It could be a stressful time if you lock your keys inside the car. There are many ways to retrieve your keys, but you must take extreme caution when there are children or other vulnerable people inside.
The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys yourself before calling the police. These DIY methods can damage the interior of your car and should only be used as a final resort.
Do It Yourself
Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake to make. It's even more difficult if it happens when you're miles away from home and are unable to easily access the vehicle. There are fortunately, a few options for dealing with this issue. It is crucial to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to figure out a way to get out of the car without damaging it. There are a variety of ways to do this, from using coathangers to using apps and other methods. It is essential not to panic, as this can cause more problems.
You can make use of a spare car keys to open the vehicle. If your car has manual locks, this is a good solution. If it's an automatic vehicle, you may need try a different approach. You can also make use of a long reach tool, which is a rod that has an end loop or hook at the end. This can be used to reach the door or boot lock and open it.
You can also identify the vehicle's identification number by looking at the panel on the dashboard. The number should be displayed, but sometimes it's hidden behind a plastic cover. You can also find your VIN on your insurance documents or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you cannot find it, a locksmith may be required.
Always leave a spare car key with someone who you are confident. This will allow you to get back into your car when you misplace your keys, and it will save you the expense of calling a professional. You may also want to keep the spare keys in a secure 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 are able to be used to get into your vehicle in an emergency.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
Roadside assistance is offered in a lot of cars as standard. If you're an AA member or AA or RAC, this should be the first call you make. This will typically cover the cost of calling a locksmith, and getting you back in your vehicle. Contact your provider directly if are unsure of what is covered under 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 feature however some companies like Start Rescue make it a mandatory part of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll pay for a locksmith be on hand to take your keys to your home or garage.
It's crucial to avoid taking extreme measures while locked outside your vehicle. This could cause damage to your vehicle and invalidate insurance. It's not a great idea. Avoid breaking windows as it can make it harder to get into the vehicle.
Unless your car is in a dangerous position or you have children, pets or elderly persons, or vulnerable people locked inside, there's no need to call the emergency services. If there's a chance of heatstroke or other health problems you should also contact the police.
If you're worried that your keys might be locked in your car, it is an ideal idea to leave a spare key with an individual from your family or a friend. You can also unlock your car using an app for smartphones. This service is offered by several manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. It is also worth considering the "companion application" when you own a smart car. This allows you to manage the features of your car via an application. Additionally, many garages will create a duplicate key for you, so if have a trusted mechanic nearby then this could be a viable option.
Contact a locksmith
Locking your keys in your car is a frequent occurrence, particularly for those who commute to school or work. If you have an extra car key or an app for your smartphone that opens the doors, this is an easy issue to resolve. However, if you don't have these options available, then it is time to call the experts!
Take a deep breath, and don't panic if you put your keys in your vehicle. If you panic, it will be more difficult to think clearly and think of a solution. You can also search on the internet for local locksmiths who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a skilled locksmith arrives at your location quickly, making the situation less stressful.
If you are an employee of a breakdown service like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first point of contact. If they are unable open your vehicle without damaging it, they will recommend a professional locksmith who has previous experience working with vehicles. Depending on your policy, this could be a free service or they might charge an agreed-upon cost for this kind of service.
You can also speak to a locksmith, but you should proceed with caution. A search on the internet can help you find an experienced and reliable locksmith who is DBS verified and checked. It is also recommended whether the locksmith you choose has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.
If they're locked out of their car, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this could be more costly than hiring a professional. They may be less expensive than trying your own luck to get into the vehicle, and they will accomplish the job faster.
Finally, if you are stuck in a public place and you believe there is a danger to other road users or that there are children, elderly people or pets in the car then it is best to contact the police. However, it is always recommended to call your breakdown service provider or an expert Auto Locksmith first before doing this because they'll be able to provide assistance and advice in these instances.
Contact the police
It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're hurrying out the door for work or to collect your children from school, particularly if it happens while you're away from home. This is a very risky and difficult situation to find yourself in if you are in the middle nowhere and miles from anyone. You may be tempted to attempt to find your keys on your own however this is generally a bad idea. You may damage your car and end up paying more money if you attempt to force locks or smash windows.
First, you must assess the situation. Are you in a safe area or are you able to return to your car? Make sure you double-check that your keys are locked inside. It's amazing how often people leave keys in their cars when they visit an outlet or post office. If you're able verify that your keys are still in the car, it's time to seek help.
The police won't be capable of unlocking your vehicle, but they can help you find a solution. They can give you suggestions and recommend professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. how do you unlock a car without a key can also inform you if your vehicle features the option of locking via remote and if this can be activated via your smartphone. You can also leave a spare key with someone who has the ability to access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to open the doors and boot.
It's not a good idea to lock your keys to your car, but it's best to be prepared should this occurs. If you remain calm and evaluate your options, you can quickly fix the issue. To avoid lockouts in the future, always carry an extra key, keep the emergency number for your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and think about purchasing a hidden key device which can be connected to your car. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram the keys to block access to previous owners. This will stop thieves from using the vehicle to steal keys.