How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
It can be stressful when you lock your keys inside the car. There are a variety of ways to get your keys back but you must always exercise extreme caution, particularly in the case of children or vulnerable people trapped inside.
The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys yourself before calling the police. DIY methods like these can cause damage to the interior of your car and should only be used as a last option.
Do It Yourself
Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake to make. It's more frustrating if you are miles away from your home and cannot get into your car. There are a variety of options to deal with this issue. It is essential to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to figure out how to get out of the car without causing damage to it. There are many different strategies to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to trying out different apps and methods. The most important thing is to not panic, as this will only make the situation worse.
If you have an extra key you can use it to enter the car. If your car has manual locks this is a good solution. But if it's an automatic vehicle, you may have to try another method. You can also use a long reach tool, that is a rod that has a loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to unlock the boot or door lock.
You can also locate the vehicle identification number by looking at the dash panel on the dashboard. The number should be displayed however sometimes it's hidden behind an opaque plastic cover. You can also locate your VIN in your insurance documentation or on your insurance proof card. If you're unable to find it, you might need to contact an locksmith.
It is advisable to leave an extra car key with someone who you are confident. This will allow you to return to your car when you misplace your keys. It will help you avoid the expense of calling an expert. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a safe location, like your home.
It is an excellent idea to keep a slim jim or other tools for locking out your car, in your vehicle. These tools are cheap and can be used to gain access into your vehicle in an emergency.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
Roadside assistance is included in a lot of cars as standard. If you're an AA member or AA or RAC that is the first place you call. It will usually cover the cost of contacting a locksmith and getting you back into your vehicle. If you're not sure what's covered under your breakdown policy or if it's going to incur an extra charge, contact the provider directly to confirm.
You should also determine if your policy includes 'key assistance'. It's typically an add-on that is not required, 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 cover any costs associated with transporting your keys from the recovery service to your home or garage (if they're nearer) when you've got keys locked in your car.
It's important to not take extreme measures when you're locked out of your car. This could cause damage to the vehicle and could invalidate your insurance therefore it's not an ideal idea. Also, avoid breaking windows since this could make it more difficult to enter the vehicle.
If your vehicle isn't in a dangerous position or you have children, pets, elderly people, or vulnerable people who are locked in your car, there's no need to contact emergency services. If there's a risk of heatstroke or other health problems it is recommended to call the police.
If you're worried about locking your keys in your car in the future, it's a good idea to leave the spare key with an individual from your family or with a friend. You can also unlock your car using an app for smartphones. Many manufacturers, including BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall, offer this service. You should also think about the 'companion application' if you own a car with a smart system. car unlock service will allow you to manage the features of your car via an application. Many garages will create duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby, this is an option.
Call an expert locksmith
Locking your keys inside your car is a very frequent occurrence, particularly for those who commute to school or work. If you have a spare 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 these options, then it is time to call the experts!
Take a deep breath and don't worry if you lock your keys in your car. If you panic, it will be harder to think clearly and come up with the best solution. You can also look online for locksmiths in your area who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a skilled locksmith comes out to your location quickly, which makes the situation less stressful.
If you are a member of a breakdown service like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first point of contact. If they are not able to open your car without damaging the vehicle they will suggest a professional locksmith who has previous experience working with vehicles. Based on your policy this could be a free service or they could charge a set cost for this kind of service.
You can also get in touch with locksmiths, but you should be cautious. You can locate a DBS-checked and vetted locksmith by searching on the internet. You can also check online if your chosen locksmith is accredited independently by the Master Locksmiths Association.
If they're locked out of the vehicle, many turn to their local garage. However, this can be more expensive than calling an expert. However, they can be cheaper than trying to gain entry into the vehicle yourself, and often complete the job much quicker.
If you are in a public place and you believe there is a danger to other motorists, or there are pets, elderly people or children in your car and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to contact the police. It is best to call your breakdown service provider or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can give you advice and support.
Call the police
If you're on the move, it's easy to leave keys in your car. This is especially true if not at home. This is a dangerous and difficult situation to find yourself in if you are in the middle nowhere, miles away from anyone. You may be tempted to try to retrieve your keys yourself however this is generally not a good idea. You can damage your car and pay more money if you attempt to force locks or break windows.
The first thing you need to do is assess the situation Are you in a secure area and where do you go to get back into your vehicle? Then, make sure that your keys really are locked inside the vehicle - it's amazing how often people leave keys in their vehicles when they go to an outlet or post office. If you can verify that your keys are still in the car, it's time to seek assistance.
While the police can't unlock your car, they will assist you in finding a solution. They can give you suggestions and recommend professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. They can also inform you if your vehicle has an option for remote locking and if it is activated by your phone. Alternatively, you can leave a spare key with someone who is able to 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 inside your car, it's better to be prepared for this scenario. You can swiftly solve the issue by staying at peace and evaluating all your options. To avoid lockouts in the future ensure you have an extra key, keep the emergency number of your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and think about purchasing a key lock which can be connected to your car. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram keys to disable access to previous owners. This will stop thieves from using the vehicle to steal keys.