How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
It can be a stressful experience if you lock your keys in the car. There are many options to get your keys back but you must always exercise extreme caution, particularly in the case of children or vulnerable persons trapped in.
The RAC suggests trying to retrieve 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 resort.
Do It Yourself
It's easy to lock your keys in the car or boot. It can be even more difficult if you are miles away from home and are unable to get into your car. There are many solutions to this problem. It is essential to remain calm and assess the situation. The next step is to find a safe way to exit the vehicle without damaging it. There are a variety of strategies for doing this, from using coat hangers to trying out apps and other methods. It is important to not panic as this will only make things worse.
If keys locked in vehicle have a spare key, you can use this to enter the car. If your car has manual locks, this is a good solution. If it's an automated vehicle, you might have to look for a different method. You can also employ a long-reach device, which is a kind of rod that has a hook or loop on the end. This tool can be used to open the door lock or boot.
Another option is to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dash. The VIN should be visible however sometimes it's hidden behind an opaque plastic cover. You can also locate your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on your proof of insurance card. If you can't find it, a locksmith might be required.
It's always recommended to leave a spare key with someone you are confident in. This will enable you to return to your car in the event that you lose your keys, and will reduce the cost of calling a professional. You may also want to consider leaving the spare in a safe location such as your home.
Keep an extra slim Jim or another locksmith tools for your car. These tools can be helpful in gaining access to your vehicle in the event of an emergency, and they are inexpensive to purchase.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
A lot of cars come with roadside assistance, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of call. This will usually cover the cost to call a locksmith to get you back in your car. Contact your service directly if you aren't sure of what is covered by your breakdown policy or if there will be an additional charge.
It's also worth checking if you have "key assist" included in your policy. It's usually an optional option, but some companies like Start Rescue make it a mandatory element of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll hire a locksmith to be on hand to take your keys to your home or garage.
It's important to not take drastic measures when you're locked outside your car. This can damage the vehicle and may invalidate your insurance and is therefore not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows since this will make it more difficult to get into the vehicle.
If your car is not in a danger zone or you have children, pets, elderly people, or vulnerable people who are locked in your car there's no need to call emergency services. If there's a chance of heatstroke or other health problems it is recommended to call the police.
If you are worried that your keys will be locked in your car, it is recommended to leave a spare 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. If you own a smart car is a good idea to look into its 'companion app', which will allow you to control key features of your car remotely through an app on your phone. Many garages can make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby, this is an option.
Call an expert locksmith
Locking your keys in your car is a common occurrence, especially for those who commute to school or work. If you have an extra car key or an application for your phone that allows you to unlock the doors, this is a simple situation to solve. If you don't have the tools, it's time to call the experts.
Take a deep breath and don't panic if you lock your keys inside your vehicle. If you panic, it will be difficult to think clearly or come up with a good solution. You can also look online for local locksmiths who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure a specialist arrives at your location quickly and make the experience less stressful.
If you are a member of a breakdown provider like the RAC or AA then this should be your first port of call. If they are unable to open your car without damaging the vehicle they will suggest a professional locksmith who has experience with vehicles. Depending on your policy, this could be free of charge, or they might charge the option of paying a fixed cost for this kind of service.
Another option is to contact a locksmith directly, but it's crucial to be cautious when doing this. Searching on the internet will help you locate an experienced and reliable locksmith who has been DBS verified and vetted. It is also recommended to check that the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which is possible online.
If they are locked out of the car, many people turn to their local garage. However, this could be more costly than calling an expert. However, they can be less expensive than attempting to break into your car yourself, and usually complete the task much quicker.
If you are in a public area and believe that there is a danger to other road users, or there could be children, elderly or pets inside your car, it is best to call the police. It is best to call your breakdown provider, or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can offer you advice and support.
Call the Police
It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing out the door for work or to pick up your children from school, particularly when you're away from home. If you're located in a remote area away from anyone, this is an even more challenging and risky situation to be in. It's tempting to try and retrieve your keys on your own, but it is not a good idea. Trying to force locks or break windows could cause damage to your vehicle and cost you more money in the end.
First, you must examine the situation. Are you in a secure location and where can you go to return to your vehicle? Double-check your keys are really secured in the car. It's astonishing how many people lose their keys in their cars while they visit the store or the post office. If you can confirm that your keys are still in the vehicle and you're not sure, call for assistance.
The police will not be able to unlock your vehicle, but they are able to assist you in finding a solution. They can offer advice and recommend an expert, such as a locksmith or garage. They can also tell you if the vehicle comes with an option for remote locking and if this can be activated via your smartphone. Alternately, you can leave an extra key with someone who can access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to open the doors and boot.
While it's not ideal to lock your keys in your car, it's better to be prepared for the possibility. You can quickly solve the issue by staying calm and assessing all your options. Keep an extra car key in your vehicle, the emergency number of your breakdown service provider in case of need, and consider installing a key lock hidden on your car to prevent future lockouts. You can also install an alarm system for your vehicle and have the keys reset to block any previous owner's access. This will also stop thieves from using your car as a way to take their own sets of keys.